Description
Cherry Garcia Fudge is a rich and creamy dessert combining the classic flavors of semi-sweet chocolate, maraschino cherries, and crunchy walnuts, all enveloped in a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth fudge. This easy stovetop recipe delivers a nostalgic treat that’s perfect for chocolate lovers and cherry fans alike. With a delightful white chocolate swirl and a luscious texture, it’s ideal for gatherings or a special homemade sweet indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Fudge Base
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries (drained and patted dry)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/3 cup chopped white chocolate or white chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the fudge.
- Melt chocolate mixture: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously to prevent burning until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add flavor: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly to blend all flavors evenly.
- Mix in add-ins: Fold in the drained and dried chopped maraschino cherries, chopped walnuts, and chopped white chocolate or white chocolate chips evenly into the fudge mixture.
- Set fudge: Quickly pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Chill: Refrigerate the fudge in the pan for at least 2 hours or until it firms up completely.
- Slice and serve: Once set, use the parchment paper or foil edges to lift the fudge out of the pan and cut it into 16 small squares for serving.
Notes
- Ensure the maraschino cherries are very well dried with paper towels to avoid excess moisture that can soften the fudge texture.
- For a nut-free alternative, omit the walnuts or substitute them with additional white chocolate to maintain texture and flavor.
