Cranberry Bliss White Chocolate Fudge

$- 2 cups white chocolate chips - 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped - 1/2 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped (optional) - Pinch of salt - Extra dried cranberries and white chocolate chips for topping To create this delightful treat, gather these simple ingredients. The white chocolate chips form the creamy base. Sweetened condensed milk adds richness and sweetness. Vanilla extract brings warmth to the fudge. Finely chopped dried cranberries add a tart burst of flavor. If you like nuts, use walnuts for a nice crunch. A pinch of salt balances the sweetness perfectly. Finally, extra cranberries and chocolate chips give a beautiful finish. Having all these items ready will make cooking easier and more fun. Enjoy the process of mixing these sweet flavors together! {{ingredient_image_2}} To start, grab an 8x8 inch square baking dish. Line it with parchment paper. Leave a little overhang on the sides. This makes it easy to lift the fudge out after it sets. For even cutting, make sure the parchment is smooth. Any wrinkles can affect how you cut the fudge later. Next, get a medium saucepan. Set it over low heat. Add the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir this mix often. You want it to melt slowly. Stirring helps to avoid burning the chocolate. Keep stirring until the mix is silky and smooth. This step is crucial for a creamy fudge. Once you melt the chocolate, take the saucepan off the heat. Now, add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. This will boost the flavor. Then, fold in your chopped dried cranberries and walnuts. Use a spatula to mix gently. Make sure everything is well combined. This gives each bite a nice texture. Pour the fudge mixture into your lined dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Aim for a smooth top. This helps the fudge look pretty. Now, sprinkle extra dried cranberries and white chocolate chips on top. Press them in gently. Place the dish in the fridge. Chill it for at least 3 hours. This makes sure the fudge is firm and set. After the fudge sets, lift it out of the dish using the parchment paper. Use a sharp knife to cut it into small squares. For a festive look, arrange the squares on a decorative plate. Scatter some extra chopped cranberries around. If you want to gift it, wrap each piece in clear cellophane. Tie it with a ribbon for a nice touch. To make great fudge, start with your ingredients at the right temperature. Use room temperature for the sweetened condensed milk. This helps it blend well with the melted chocolate. Cold ingredients can cause the fudge to seize. Grainy fudge is a common mistake. To avoid this, ensure the white chocolate chips melt slowly. Stir gently and often. If the heat is too high, it can burn and ruin the smooth texture. For freshness, store your fudge in an airtight container. This keeps it soft and tasty. If you want it to last longer, place parchment paper between layers. This helps prevent sticking. To extend shelf life, keep it in the fridge. It can last up to two weeks this way. If you want to save it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap it well to avoid freezer burn. Sometimes, fudge doesn't set. If this happens, try placing it back in the fridge. Let it chill longer. If it still won't firm up, you can melt it again. Add a bit more chocolate to help it set. Broken or crumbly fudge can be fixed too. Simply melt it again, then stir in a little sweetened condensed milk. This can bring it back to a smooth and creamy state. Pro Tips Use high-quality chocolate: Opt for premium white chocolate chips for a creamier texture and richer flavor in your fudge. Chill effectively: Allow the fudge to chill in the refrigerator for a full 3 hours to ensure it sets properly and has a firm texture. Customize the mix-ins: Feel free to substitute walnuts with other nuts or add additional flavors like orange zest for a unique twist. Presentation matters: Cut the fudge into uniform squares for a professional look, and consider adding festive decorations for special occasions. {{image_4}} You can boost flavor in your fudge. Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. A little orange zest can also add a bright twist. If you want crunch, substitute nuts. Pecans or almonds work well. You can also mix in different dried fruits, like cherries or apricots. Each change brings a new taste to enjoy. To make this fudge vegan, swap white chocolate chips for dairy-free ones. Use coconut milk in place of sweetened condensed milk. This keeps the fudge creamy and rich. For gluten-free options, check your chocolate chips. Most are gluten-free, but always read labels. This way, everyone can indulge without worry. Add flair to your fudge with creative toppings. Try crushed nuts or colorful sprinkles for fun. You can drizzle melted chocolate on top for a fancy touch. For special gifts, package fudge in clear bags. Tie them with ribbons to make them festive. This adds a personal touch that friends and family will love. To keep your fudge fresh, you have a few options. You can store it in the fridge or at room temperature. If you choose room temperature, make sure it is cool and dry. Fudge stays good for about a week this way. However, refrigeration can help it last longer. For best results, use an airtight container. This keeps out moisture and air. If you don’t have one, wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap. Make sure there are no gaps. This prevents it from drying out. You can freeze fudge to enjoy later. Start by cutting it into squares. Then, wrap each piece in plastic wrap. After that, place the wrapped pieces in a freezer bag. Label the bag with the date. To thaw the fudge, take it out of the freezer. Leave it in the fridge overnight. This helps it regain its texture. Avoid microwaving it, as that can change the fudge's quality. For the best taste, try to eat the fudge within three months. This way, you get the best flavor and texture when you enjoy it again. Cranberry white chocolate fudge lasts about two weeks when stored right. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to a month. Just remember to let it sit out for a bit before serving, so it softens nicely. Yes, you can use white chocolate bars. They melt well and can give a nice finish. However, bars may not stay as smooth as chips. Chocolate chips have stabilizers that help them hold their shape. If you use bars, chop them finely for even melting. If you need a substitute, try coconut milk with sugar. You can also blend milk and sugar to make a quick version. For a vegan option, use almond milk mixed with a thickener like cornstarch. Each substitute may change the fudge's taste a bit, but it will still be tasty. To make your fudge festive, add a splash of peppermint extract for a holiday twist. You can also use colored sprinkles or edible glitter on top for a fun look. Try mixing in seasonal nuts or using different dried fruits for variety. Arrange the squares on a pretty plate for a lovely presentation. You now have all the details to make tasty cranberry white chocolate fudge. We explored ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. Keeping your fudge soft and fresh is easy with the right storage. You can also try fun variations for extra flavor. Enjoy making this sweet treat! It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Your friends and family will love it, and you'll feel proud to serve it.$

Cranberry Bliss White Chocolate Fudge

A creamy and festive fudge made with white chocolate, dried cranberries, and optional walnuts, perfect for holiday gifting.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Total Time 3 15

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 16

Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients

2 cups white chocolate chips
1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
1/2 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped (optional)
1 pinch salt
to taste extra dried cranberries and white chocolate chips for topping

Instructions

Begin by preparing an 8x8 inch square baking dish. Line it with parchment paper, ensuring to leave a slight overhang on the sides; this will help you lift the fudge out easily once set.
In a medium saucepan set over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips and the sweetened condensed milk. Stir frequently and patiently until the chocolate chips have completely melted and the mixture achieves a silky-smooth texture.
Once melted, remove the saucepan from heat and mix in the vanilla extract along with a pinch of salt, enhancing the overall flavor of the fudge.
Carefully fold in the chopped dried cranberries and walnuts (if using) into the warm chocolate mixture. Ensure that they are evenly distributed throughout for a delightful texture in every bite.
Pour the fudge mixture into your lined baking dish, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom. Aim for a smooth surface to achieve a lovely finish.
For a final touch, sprinkle additional dried cranberries and a handful of white chocolate chips on top. Gently press them into the fudge's surface for added decoration and texture.
Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and allow the fudge to chill for at least 3 hours, or until completely firm and set.
Once the fudge has set, lift it out of the baking dish using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into small squares to serve, enjoying the vibrant colors and creamy texture.

Notes

For a charming gift, consider wrapping individual fudge pieces in clear cellophane with a decorative ribbon.

Keyword cranberries, dessert, fudge, holiday, white chocolate