Cherry Garcia Fudge: A Sweet, Decadent Treat

Looking for an indulgent and easy-to-make dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, cherries, and walnuts? Cherry Garcia Fudge is the perfect solution. Inspired by the beloved Cherry Garcia ice cream, this fudge brings together semi-sweet chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and juicy cherries for a mouthwatering treat. With its creamy texture and fruity twist, this fudge is the ideal choice for a quick and delightful homemade dessert.

Whether you’re planning a special occasion, need a festive treat for the holidays, or simply want a sweet snack, Cherry Garcia Fudge is sure to please. It’s incredibly simple to make and requires just a few ingredients, making it the perfect dessert for beginners and experienced bakers alike. The balance of chocolatey richness and fruity sweetness will have everyone coming back for more.

This no-bake fudge recipe takes just minutes to prepare, with minimal effort and maximum flavor. A great addition to any holiday spread, or a thoughtful homemade gift for loved ones, Cherry Garcia Fudge will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

With only 10 minutes of prep time, Cherry Garcia Fudge is a super simple dessert that anyone can make—even with minimal baking experience.

2. Perfectly Balanced Flavors

The combination of semi-sweet chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, tart cherries, and crunchy walnuts creates a delightful balance of rich, creamy, and fruity flavors.

3. No-Bake Delight

This fudge is a no-bake recipe, which means you don’t have to worry about turning on the oven. Simply mix, refrigerate, and enjoy!

4. Customizable Add-ins

Feel free to swap out the walnuts for another nut or add more fruit to suit your preferences. This recipe is versatile and easy to customize.

5. Ideal for Gifting

Packaged in a cute box or wrapped in festive paper, Cherry Garcia Fudge makes a perfect homemade gift for friends, family, or colleagues.

Ingredients

• Semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Vanilla extract
• Chopped cherries
• Chopped walnuts

Variations

Different Nuts

While walnuts are a classic addition, you can easily substitute them with pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts for a different texture and flavor.

Add More Fruit

For a more intense fruity flavor, you can mix in dried cranberries, raspberries, or even strawberries along with the cherries.

White Chocolate Version

Switch out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate chips to create a sweeter, lighter version of this fudge.

Vegan Option

To make this fudge vegan, use dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut milk in place of the sweetened condensed milk for a plant-based alternative.

Festive Swirls

Add a bit of color by swirling in some red or green food coloring into the fudge before refrigerating for a holiday-themed touch.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Line the Pan

Begin by lining an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper. This will help the fudge come out easily once it’s set.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Microwave the mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth and fully melted.

Step 3: Add Flavor and Fruit

Once the chocolate mixture is smooth, stir in the vanilla extract, chopped cherries, and chopped walnuts. Mix until the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the fudge.

Step 4: Pour and Spread

Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Press down lightly to ensure the mixture is smooth and well-set.

Step 5: Refrigerate

Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is firm and fully set.

Step 6: Cut into Squares

Once the fudge has set, remove it from the pan and cut it into squares. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Be sure to stir the chocolate mixture thoroughly to ensure it’s completely smooth.
• If you’re using frozen cherries, make sure to thaw and drain them well before chopping to avoid excess moisture in the fudge.
• For cleaner cuts, allow the fudge to cool for an additional 15-20 minutes before slicing into squares.
• If you don’t have parchment paper, lightly grease the pan with butter or cooking spray.
• For a smoother finish, you can gently press the top of the fudge down with a spatula to make it more even before refrigerating.

How to Serve

Cherry Garcia Fudge is best served cold, straight from the refrigerator. Cut into small squares and place them on a serving tray for a delightful treat at parties, holiday gatherings, or as a snack. This fudge also pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine. If you’re serving it as part of a dessert platter, you can even arrange it alongside cookies or other fudge varieties for a festive touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Cherry Garcia Fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The fudge will stay firm and fresh, ready to enjoy at any time.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the fudge. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. To serve, let it thaw in the refrigerator for several hours before cutting into squares.

Reheating

There is no need to reheat Cherry Garcia Fudge. Simply serve it cold or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor, but it will alter the overall taste of the fudge.

2. Can I use dried cherries instead of fresh cherries?

Yes, dried cherries work well in this recipe. Just chop them into small pieces before adding them to the fudge.

3. How can I make the fudge set faster?

You can place the pan in the freezer for about 30 minutes to speed up the setting process.

4. Can I use a different type of milk for the fudge?

Sweetened condensed milk is key for achieving the creamy texture of this fudge. For a dairy-free version, use coconut sweetened condensed milk.

5. Can I add other fruits like blueberries or strawberries?

Yes, you can add any fruit you like, but be mindful of the moisture content. Be sure to chop the fruit well and remove any excess liquid.

6. How thick should the fudge be?

Aim for about 1-inch thickness for each piece of fudge. This will give you the perfect texture: firm yet melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

7. Can I make this fudge without walnuts?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of walnuts or have allergies, you can leave them out entirely or substitute them with other nuts or seeds.

8. How can I make the fudge more colorful?

For a fun touch, try adding colorful sprinkles on top of the fudge before it sets. You can also swirl in food coloring for a festive look.

9. Is this recipe customizable for different occasions?

Yes! You can make it festive by adding holiday-themed decorations, like edible glitter or colored candies, for special events like Christmas or birthdays.

10. How long does the fudge last?

Cherry Garcia Fudge will last up to a week in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer, as long as it’s properly stored.

Conclusion

Cherry Garcia Fudge is a delicious, indulgent treat that’s sure to impress anyone with a sweet tooth. With its rich chocolate base, tangy cherries, and crunchy walnuts, it’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your tastes or any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or simply want a fun, no-bake dessert to enjoy, this fudge is a winner every time. So, get ready to indulge in this creamy, fruity, and nutty delight!

Print