Easy Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Creamy Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe for Sweet Joy

Sweet memories of holiday gatherings dance around this cranberry white chocolate fudge that blends creamy richness with tart bursts of flavor.

Festive desserts always spark joy in kitchens everywhere.

Seasonal treats like these connect us through shared culinary experiences.

Delicate white chocolate melts into smooth perfection when combined with vibrant crimson cranberries.

Every bite promises a delightful contrast between smooth and tangy elements.

Small batches create magical moments of pure indulgence.

You’ll want to savor each decadent piece slowly and share the deliciousness with everyone around you.

Tips For Creamy White Chocolate Fudge

  • Opt for high-quality white chocolate chips to ensure a rich, creamy texture in your fudge.
  • Chop dried cranberries into smaller pieces for better distribution throughout the fudge.
  • Gently fold in nuts to maintain their crunch and prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
  • Allow the fudge to set completely in the refrigerator for clean, neat cutting lines.
  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week to maintain freshness and prevent spoiling.

Unique Spins On Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge

  • Dairy-Free Delight: Replace white chocolate chips with coconut cream and dairy-free white chocolate, using almond milk condensed milk for a vegan-friendly version.
  • Nutty Alternative: Swap cranberries with dried cherries and use pistachios or almonds instead of traditional nuts for a different flavor profile.
  • Keto-Friendly Option: Use sugar-free white chocolate chips, replace sweetened condensed milk with heavy cream and powdered erythritol, and add chopped macadamia nuts for a low-carb treat.
  • Seasonal Spin: Create a holiday version by adding orange zest, using dark chocolate drizzle, and mixing in crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch.

Pairings For White Chocolate Fudge

  • Festive Holiday Centerpiece: Arrange fudge squares on a decorative holiday platter, garnished with fresh cranberries and sprigs of mint for a stunning seasonal dessert display.
  • Gifting Delight: Package fudge pieces in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons, creating a homemade treat perfect for holiday gift-giving to friends and family.
  • Dessert Board Accent: Include fudge squares alongside other sweet treats on a dessert charcuterie board, adding a pop of color and creamy texture to complement different confections.
  • Afternoon Tea Companion: Serve fudge squares alongside hot tea or coffee, offering a sweet complement to warm beverages during cozy winter gatherings.

Storing Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Correctly

  • Store fudge in an airtight container layered with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks, keeping pieces separated to maintain texture.
  • Freeze fudge slices in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months for longer preservation.
  • Thaw frozen fudge in the refrigerator overnight before serving, allowing gradual temperature adjustment.

FAQs

  • Can I use frozen cranberries instead of dried cranberries?

You can use frozen cranberries, but thaw and pat them completely dry first to prevent excess moisture from affecting the fudge’s texture.

  • Is white chocolate different from regular chocolate?

White chocolate doesn’t contain cocoa solids and is made from cocoa butter, milk solids, and sugar, giving it a creamy, sweet flavor distinct from dark or milk chocolate.

  • Do I need a candy thermometer for this recipe?

No, this fudge recipe is simple and doesn’t require a candy thermometer. Just melt the ingredients carefully over low heat and stir until smooth.

  • How can I make sure my fudge sets properly?

Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, ensuring it’s completely firm before cutting. Cold temperatures help the fudge set and maintain its shape.

Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge That Impresses

  • Create Holiday Magic: This festive fudge brings cheerful seasonal spirit with its stunning red cranberry and white chocolate combination, perfect for gifting or holiday gatherings.
  • Quick No-Bake Delight: Minimal cooking steps mean you can prepare this sweet treat without turning on the oven, making it super convenient for busy home cooks and baking novices.
  • Customize Your Crunch: Flexible recipe allows adding optional nuts for extra texture, letting you personalize the fudge to match family preferences or dietary needs.
  • Simple Ingredients, Elegant Result: Using just a few pantry staples, you can craft a sophisticated dessert that looks and tastes like a professional confection with minimal effort.

Ingredients For Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge

Main Ingredients:
  • White Chocolate Chips: The primary sweet base that creates the creamy fudge texture and provides rich flavor.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Helps bind the fudge together and adds smooth, rich sweetness.
Fruit and Nut Addition:
  • Dried Cranberries, Nuts: Add delightful bursts of tart flavor and crunchy texture to the smooth fudge.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Vanilla Extract: Brings a warm, classic flavor that complements the white chocolate and cranberries.
  • Parchment Paper: Ensures easy removal and clean cutting of the fudge from the pan.

How To Make Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge

Step 1: Prepare Baking Pan

Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. This will help you lift the fudge out cleanly once it’s set.

Step 2: Create Creamy Chocolate Base

Combine white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan. Gently heat over low temperature, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes completely smooth and glossy.

Maintain a slow, steady stirring motion to prevent burning.

Step 3: Enhance Fudge Flavor

Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully fold in:
  • Vanilla extract
  • Dried cranberries
  • Chopped nuts (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the white chocolate mixture.

Step 4: Set and Chill Fudge

Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface. Smooth out any bumpy areas for a perfect finish.

Step 5: Solidify the Dessert

Place the pan in the refrigerator and let the fudge chill for at least 2 hours. The fudge needs time to firm up completely and develop its rich, creamy texture.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Once the fudge is fully set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper edges. Cut into neat squares using a sharp knife.

Serve and enjoy your delightful cranberry white chocolate treat.

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Easy Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Easy Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe


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4.7 from 31 reviews

  • Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 16 1x

Description

Homemade cranberry white chocolate fudge delivers a festive dessert perfect for holiday gatherings. Rich white chocolate melts with tart cranberries, creating a delightful treat that will satisfy sweet cravings in moments.


Ingredients

Scale

Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups white chocolate chips (480 milliliters)
  • 1 14-ounce (396 grams) can sweetened condensed milk

Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Garnish and Optional Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by lining it completely with parchment paper, ensuring full coverage of the bottom and sides for easy removal.
  2. Combine white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melting gently over low heat while continuously stirring to prevent scorching.
  3. Once the mixture achieves a silky, uniform consistency, immediately remove from heat to prevent overheating.
  4. Incorporate vanilla extract, stirring gently to distribute the flavor evenly throughout the creamy base.
  5. Fold in dried cranberries and chopped nuts, distributing them uniformly to ensure balanced texture in each fudge piece.
  6. Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and create a smooth, level surface.
  7. Refrigerate for approximately 2-3 hours at 40°F, allowing the fudge to set completely and develop a firm, sliceable texture.
  8. Once fully chilled, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper edges and place on a cutting board.
  9. Slice into neat, uniform squares using a sharp knife, cleaning the blade between cuts for crisp edges.
  10. Serve chilled and store any remaining fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Notes

  • Toast nuts lightly before adding to enhance their nutty flavor and provide a delightful crunch to the fudge.
  • Choose high-quality white chocolate chips for a smoother, more luxurious texture and richer taste.
  • For a dairy-free version, swap sweetened condensed milk with coconut cream and use vegan white chocolate chips.
  • Consider using dried cranberries if fresh ones are not available, ensuring they are plump and vibrant for the best visual and taste appeal.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 16
  • Calories: 190 kcal
  • Sugar: 21 g
  • Sodium: 30 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 10 mg
John Conley

John Conley

Founder & Culinary Storyteller

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Writing, Home Cooking Techniques, Seasonal Ingredient Utilization​

Education

Lane Community College, Eugene, OR
​Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on foundational cooking techniques, kitchen safety, and menu planning.

​Gotham Writers Workshop, New York, NY
Course in Food Writing
Explored the art of crafting engaging culinary narratives and recipe development.


John grew up where food meant connection: big bowls, warm kitchens, and meals that told a story. After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Lane Community College and diving deep into food writing at Gotham Writers Workshop, he found his calling: turning everyday recipes into something worth savoring.
At The Liffey, John’s focus is all about crafting dishes that feel easy, honest, and full of heart.

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