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Creamy, dreamy, and packed with bursts of sweet-tart cherries, this White Chocolate Cherry Fudge is a holiday must-have or a sweet treat that fits just about any time of year. Imagine biting into a velvety block of white chocolate that melts on your tongue, only to be met with chewy, ruby-red bits of maraschino cherries that add a pop of color and tang.

This easy fudge recipe is great for gifting, sharing at potlucks, or sneaking from the fridge late at night when you need a sugar fix. You won’t need a candy thermometer or complicated techniques. Just a handful of ingredients, a saucepan, and a bit of stirring until you have a beautiful slab of glossy, cherry-flecked fudge ready to chill.

Why You’ll Love This White Chocolate Cherry Fudge

If you love a dessert that looks like it took hours but only takes minutes, this fudge is for you. It’s rich without being heavy and offers a flavor contrast that keeps every bite interesting. The white chocolate makes it incredibly smooth, while the cherries add texture and brightness. This is the kind of fudge that gets people asking for the recipe.

Whether you’re wrapping it in a tin for the holidays or cutting it into small cubes for a dessert platter, it’s as visually stunning as it is indulgent.

Do I Need to Use Fresh Cherries or Maraschino Cherries?

For this recipe, maraschino cherries are the star. Their intense sweetness and vibrant red hue complement the creamy white chocolate beautifully. Fresh cherries contain more moisture, which can cause the fudge to set improperly or become too soft. Maraschinos, when drained and patted dry, blend right in with no fuss and offer the perfect pop of color in each bite.

Ingredients for the White Chocolate Cherry Fudge

To make this White Chocolate Cherry Fudge, you only need a few simple ingredients that combine to create something truly special. Each one has a purpose, and when balanced together, they create that melt-in-your-mouth texture we all love in a fudge.

• White chocolate chips
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Butter
• Vanilla extract
• Salt
• Maraschino cherries

The white chocolate chips are the base, giving the fudge its creamy texture and sweet flavor. Sweetened condensed milk acts as the glue that binds everything together into that signature silky fudge consistency. A little butter brings extra richness, while vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor. A pinch of salt balances out the sweetness so it’s not overpowering. And finally, the maraschino cherries add chewiness and color that make this fudge pop both in texture and looks.

How To Make the White Chocolate Cherry Fudge

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over for easy removal. Lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Dry the Cherries

Drain your maraschino cherries and chop them into halves or quarters. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is key to making sure your fudge sets correctly.

Step 3: Melt the Base

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir constantly until the mixture is fully melted and smooth.

Step 4: Flavor It

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Once combined, gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries.

Step 5: Let It Set

Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, or until fully set.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Once the fudge is firm, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut it into small squares. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.

How to Serve and Store White Chocolate Cherry Fudge

This recipe makes enough fudge to feed about 16 people if cut into small squares, making it perfect for gatherings or treat boxes. Serve it on a dessert tray alongside cookies, candies, and other bite-sized treats for a visually appealing and delicious spread.

To store, keep the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, wrap the pieces individually in parchment and freeze them for up to 2 months. Let frozen pieces thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

What to Serve With White Chocolate Cherry Fudge?

A Cup of Espresso

The bitterness of espresso contrasts beautifully with the sweet, creamy fudge.

Sparkling Rosé

A chilled glass of this pink bubbly makes for a festive and flavor-enhancing pairing.

Salted Pretzels

The salty crunch is a great match for the creamy texture and sweetness of the fudge.

Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

Pairing two fruity, chocolatey desserts together is always a win.

Almond Biscotti

A crunchy cookie is perfect for balancing the softness of the fudge.

Pistachio Ice Cream

Add a creamy nutty scoop to your dessert plate and elevate the experience.

Whipped Cream and Berries

A dollop of whipped cream with fresh raspberries or blackberries alongside a cube of fudge makes for an elegant mini dessert.

Want More Fudge and No-Bake Treats?

If you love this White Chocolate Cherry Fudge, you’ll definitely want to try some of these easy and delicious ideas:

• Ooey Gooey Bars if you want a rich, sticky bar you can’t say no to.
• Reindeer Chow when you’re in the mood for a festive, crunchy snack.
• Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars for a fun way to use up holiday sweets.
• Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons if you love the cherry + coconut combo.
• Best Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries for a fresh fruit twist that still brings the creaminess.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add almond extract or leave it classic? Try it with chopped pistachios on top for a festive crunch?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too – let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and more easy dessert ideas on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

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