Adventure awaits as we take a culinary trip to the land of sweet indulgence with every luscious bite of Cherry Fantasy Fudge! With its vibrant hues and irresistible flavors, this treat is a reminder that sometimes the most magical experiences can come wrapped in chocolate and cherries. Buckle up, because this is not just another recipe – it’s a delicious passport to a land of sugary dreams!
Why make this recipe
Looking for a sweet escape that’ll have your taste buds dancing like there’s a festival in your mouth? Cherry Fantasy Fudge combines the richness of chocolate, the fluffy delight of marshmallow, and a cherry twist that makes every bite a joyful celebration. Perfect for parties, gifts, or a cheeky “just because” moment, this fudge will have you channeling your inner chocolatier and feeling like a global connoisseur of delightful desserts!
How to make Cherry Fantasy Fudge
Ingredients:
- 3 cups (600 g) granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks, 170 g) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup (126 g) evaporated milk
- 1 package (12 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 jar (7 ounces) marshmallow fluff or marshmallow creme
- 1 cup (117 g) walnuts, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup (120 g) maraschino cherries, drained, patted dry, and chopped
Directions:
- Grab a trusty 9×9 inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper — this is your canvas, so make it pretty!
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, throw in that grand triumvirate of sugar, butter, and evaporated milk. Stir like you mean it, because we’re about to enter the realm of candy magic! Bring it to a boil, but don’t get too comfy — keep stirring.
- Keep that mixture bubbling until it hits a candy thermometer mark of 234 degrees F, approximately five wild minutes. If you’re sans thermometer, (oh, the horror!) scoop a little into cold water. If it forms a soft ball that flattens under pressure, you’re golden!
- Pull that pan off the heat and stir in those glorious chocolate chips. Watch as they melt like dreams turning to reality. Add in the marshmallow fluff, walnuts (if you’re feeling nutty), and a splash of vanilla extract.
- The pièce de résistance? Gently fold in your chopped maraschino cherries. Be delicate here; we don’t want a cherry massacre!
- Pour this delightful mixture into your prepared pan, spreading it out like the colorful, sweet canvas that it is. Let the fudge set at room temperature for 4 hours, or chill it in the fridge for a firm candy experience.
- Once set, cut into squares and serve. Voilà! You’ve just turned your kitchen into your very own confectionery wonderland.
How to serve Cherry Fantasy Fudge
Serve these little squares of heavenly bliss with an adventurous flair! Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, and watch your guests ooh and aah as they take a bite. Place them on colorful plates for a festive feel, or stack them high on a cake stand at your next gathering for that “wow” factor. And if you’re feeling particularly cheeky, sprinkle some extra chopped cherries on top just before serving!
How to store Cherry Fantasy Fudge
Leftovers? Oh, we can’t believe you will have any! But if you do, cut the fudge into squares and store it in an airtight container lined with wax paper to keep that luscious texture intact. It’ll stay good for up to two weeks if you can resist the temptation!
Tips to make Cherry Fantasy Fudge
- Make sure your cherries are well-drained and patted dry — no one likes a soggy fudge!
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract along with the vanilla. It’s like jazzing up a classic tune!
- If you love a good crunch, toast those walnuts lightly before adding. It brings a delightful toasted flavor that dances with the cherries!
Variations
Feeling curious? You might swap out the chocolate chips for a swirl of white chocolate and add crushed peppermint candies for a holiday twist. Or substitute the maraschino cherries with dried cranberries and match the fudge with white chocolate for a Christmas delight! The possibilities are as vast as the world itself.
FAQs
Q: Can I use different nuts?
A: Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, or even pistachios could add a lovely crunch and flavor profile. Go wild!
Q: I’m allergic to cherries. What’s a good substitute?
A: Dried cranberries or chopped strawberries could fill that fruity void nicely. Just make sure to adjust those flavors accordingly!
Q: How do I know when my fudge is done cooking?
A: Use a candy thermometer for precise accuracy, or do the cold water test. Just remember: soft ball = ready to party!
So roll up your sleeves and dive deep into this Cherry Fantasy Fudge adventure. Chocolate and cherries await, and with each delicious square, you’ll feel as if you’ve tasted the very essence of sweet joy from every corner of the globe!
Cherry Fantasy Fudge
Ingredients
Method
- Line a 9x9 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, butter, and evaporated milk. Stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring continuously until it reaches 234 degrees F on a candy thermometer, about 5 minutes.
- If you don't have a thermometer, do the cold water test. The mixture should form a soft ball that flattens under pressure.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips until melted.
- Mix in the marshmallow fluff, walnuts if using, and vanilla extract.
- Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Let the fudge set at room temperature for 4 hours or chill in the fridge for a firmer texture.
- Once set, cut into squares and serve.