Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Heavenly Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe for Sweet Lovers

Whipping up this decadent cranberry white chocolate fudge feels like crafting a sweet masterpiece in your kitchen.

Crimson bursts of tart cranberries dance delightfully against creamy white chocolate swirls.

Seasonal magic happens when classic ingredients blend into something extraordinary.

No complicated techniques stand between you and fudge perfection.

Soft, melt-in-your-mouth textures promise pure indulgence with every bite.

Some desserts simply sparkle with simple elegance, and this recipe embodies that delicious promise.

Each square whispers winter comfort and celebration.

FAQs

  • Can I use frozen cranberries instead of dried cranberries?

Fresh or frozen cranberries will release too much moisture and can make your fudge watery. Stick to dried cranberries for the best texture and consistency.

  • Do I need a candy thermometer for this recipe?

No, this recipe doesn’t require a candy thermometer. The sweetened condensed milk helps create a smooth fudge without needing precise temperature monitoring.

  • How can I tell if my white chocolate is melting correctly?

Stir constantly and use low heat. The mixture should look smooth and glossy without any lumps. If chocolate seems grainy, lower the heat and continue stirring gently.

  • Is this recipe good for holiday gift giving?

Absolutely! These fudge squares are perfect for holiday gifting. They look festive with the red cranberries and can be cut into neat, uniform pieces for packaging.

Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Decadent Reasons

Whip Up Holiday Magic: Quick and Easy Festive Treat

  • Minimal Prep Delight: Requires just six simple steps with basic kitchen tools, perfect for novice bakers seeking stress-free dessert making.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Seasonal Sensation: Combines classic holiday flavors of cranberry and white chocolate, creating an irresistible sweet treat that impresses guests without complicated techniques.
  • Time-Saving Sweet Indulgence: Takes only 15 minutes of active preparation and 2-3 hours of chilling, delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort, ideal for busy home cooks during holiday gatherings.
  • No-Bake Winter Wonder: Eliminates oven use, making this recipe accessible for those without advanced baking skills or limited kitchen equipment, ensuring anyone can create a delicious dessert.

White Chocolate Fudge With Cranberries Items

Fudge Base:
  • White Chocolate Chips: Smooth, creamy foundation for the fudge with rich flavor.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Provides sweetness and helps create a silky, soft texture.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds warm, classic background flavor.
  • Salt: Balances sweetness and highlights other ingredients.
Fruit Element:
  • Dried Cranberries: Adds tart, bright bursts of fruity flavor and festive color; look for plump, vibrant berries without added sugar if possible.

Cranberry Fudge Recipe Process

Step 1: Prepare Baking Pan

Cover an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper hangs slightly over the edges for easy removal later.

Step 2: Create Creamy Chocolate Base

Grab a medium saucepan and place it over low heat.

Combine white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk, stirring gently until the mixture becomes completely smooth and silky.

Step 3: Enhance Flavor Profile

Remove the saucepan from heat and introduce a burst of flavor by mixing in:
  • Vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Dried cranberries

Stir all ingredients until well incorporated and evenly distributed.

Step 4: Transfer and Spread

Pour the luxurious mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface, creating a uniform layer.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Place the pan in the refrigerator and let it rest for 2-3 hours.

The fudge will transform from a liquid state to a firm, delectable treat.

Step 6: Slice and Enjoy

Remove the fudge from the refrigerator.

Lift the parchment paper to release the fudge, then slice into delightful squares.

Serve and savor the sweet, tangy goodness.

Fudge Tips That Keep Cranberry White Chocolate Smooth

  • Line the pan with parchment paper overhanging on two sides for easy fudge removal without breaking.
  • Use low heat and stir constantly to prevent burning or seizing white chocolate, ensuring a smooth, creamy texture.
  • Fold dried cranberries gently into the mixture to ensure even spread throughout the fudge for perfect fruity bites.
  • Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours to allow fudge to set completely, creating a firm, sliceable consistency.
  • Swap dried cranberries with other dried fruits like chopped cherries or blueberries for unique flavor variations.

Keep White Chocolate Fudge Chilled For Later

  • Store the fudge in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper, for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
  • Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen fudge keeps well for 2-3 months.
  • Move frozen fudge to the refrigerator overnight for gentle defrosting, preserving its creamy texture.
  • Let the fudge sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance flavor.

Flavors That Pair with Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge

  • Pair Creamy Dessert with Crisp White Wine: Select a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the sweet white chocolate and tart cranberry notes.
  • Match Fudge with Nutty Espresso: Brew a rich, dark espresso to contrast the sweetness and enhance the fudge's creamy texture with a bold coffee undertone.
  • Elevate with Sparkling Cranberry Mocktail: Create a festive drink using sparkling water, cranberry juice, and a touch of fresh mint to mirror the fudge's fruity elements.
  • Serve Alongside Toasted Almond Biscotti: Choose crunchy almond biscotti to provide a textural contrast and nutty flavor that balances the smooth, sweet fudge.

White Chocolate Fudge with Cranberry Holiday Twists

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace standard white chocolate chips with certified gluten-free white chocolate chips and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free certified.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Swap sweetened condensed milk with coconut condensed milk and use dairy-free white chocolate chips for a lactose-intolerant friendly recipe.
  • Vegan Option: Use plant-based white chocolate, coconut condensed milk, and swap vanilla extract with vanilla bean paste for a completely vegan fudge experience.
  • Low-Sugar Adaptation: Substitute sweetened condensed milk with sugar-free condensed milk and use stevia-sweetened white chocolate chips to reduce overall sugar content.
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Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe


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4.7 from 14 reviews

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

Description

Creamy cranberry white chocolate fudge delivers festive winter magic in each delightful bite. Festive flavors meld perfectly, offering sweet-tart richness you cannot resist.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups white chocolate chips
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 (14 ounces / 397 grams) can sweetened condensed milk

Supporting Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare a square baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage of the bottom and sides for easy removal.
  2. Create a gentle heating environment in a medium saucepan, melting white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk together, whisking consistently to achieve a silky, uniform consistency without scorching.
  3. Once the mixture reaches a smooth texture, carefully remove the saucepan from heat source and incorporate vanilla extract and salt, stirring thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly.
  4. Gently fold dried cranberries into the creamy white chocolate base, ensuring they are uniformly suspended throughout the mixture.
  5. Transfer the fudge mixture into the parchment-lined pan, using a spatula to spread it into an even layer, eliminating any potential air pockets or uneven surfaces.
  6. Place the pan in the refrigerator, allowing the fudge to solidify and set completely, which typically requires approximately 2-3 hours of chilling time.
  7. After the fudge has firmed up, lift the parchment paper to remove the entire block from the pan, then slice into neat, uniform squares using a sharp knife.
  8. Serve the fudge chilled, presenting these delightful cranberry white chocolate treats at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Swap white chocolate chips for dairy-free alternatives to create a vegan-friendly version of this festive treat.
  • Chop cranberries finely to distribute the tart flavor more evenly throughout the sweet fudge.
  • Ensure low and slow melting of chocolate to prevent scorching and maintain a silky smooth texture.
  • For added texture, sprinkle some crushed pistachios or toasted almonds on top before refrigerating.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Steeping
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 16
  • Calories: 178
  • Sugar: 22 g
  • Sodium: 17.5 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 6 mg
James Walker

James Walker

Lead Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southern Cuisine & Farm-to-Table Cooking, Recipe Development & Testing, Culinary Education & Instruction​

Education

School: Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts

Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts and Operations

Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern culinary techniques, kitchen operations, and farm-to-table practices. ​


James didn’t learn cooking from a TV show, he learned it from busy kitchens, family gatherings, and long afternoons spent testing recipes the hard way.
After training at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, he brought his love for real, down-to-earth food to every dish he makes.
At Dining At Home, James loves building recipes that feel familiar but still have something special, like adding a twist to a classic or making a slow Sunday dinner feel brand new.
When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll probably find him swapping garden tips at the farmers’ market or teaching his daughter how to flip pancakes without a mess (almost).

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