The Most Scrumptious Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe Ever Made

Ice cream lovers adore this cherry garcia fudge that combines creamy textures with sweet nostalgia.

Ben & jerry’s inspired treats always spark excitement in my kitchen.

Rich chocolate swirls dance alongside bright red cherries in each delectable bite.

Smooth fudge layers complement tart fruity notes perfectly.

Homemade desserts like this feel special and indulgent without complicated techniques.

Quick mixing and minimal ingredients mean you can whip up this decadent recipe in minutes.

Serving these irresistible squares that promise to delight every chocolate and cherry enthusiast at your next gathering.

Toppings and Sips That Match Cherry Garcia Fudge

• Pair with Sparkling Cherry Mocktail: Create a refreshing drink that mirrors the cherry flavor in the fudge, using fresh cherry juice, sparkling water, and a hint of vanilla syrup to complement the sweet chocolate notes.
• Match with Creamy Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of rich vanilla bean ice cream alongside the fudge to enhance the dessert's creamy texture and provide a classic flavor combination that echoes the Cherry Garcia inspiration.
• Combine with Almond Biscotti: Offer crisp almond biscotti as a crunchy counterpoint to the smooth fudge, adding a nutty complexity that balances the sweet cherry and chocolate flavors while providing a delightful textural contrast.
• Accompany with Espresso Martini: For adult gatherings, mix a smooth espresso martini that cuts through the fudge's richness, with the coffee's bold notes creating a sophisticated flavor harmony with the cherry chocolate base.

Flavor Upgrades for Cherry Garcia Fudge

• Berry Bliss Variation: Swap maraschino cherries with fresh raspberries and add raspberry extract for an intense fruity flavor profile. Mix white chocolate with raspberry-flavored gelatin to enhance the berry essence.
• Nutty Cherry Crunch: Incorporate chopped almonds or pecans into the fudge mixture for added texture. Sprinkle toasted nut pieces on top before chilling to create a delightful crunch and nutty undertone.
• Dark Chocolate Cherry Dream: Replace white chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a richer, more intense chocolate experience. Use kirsch (cherry liqueur) instead of cherry gelatin to elevate the sophisticated flavor.
• Chocolate Chip Cherry Swirl: Create a marbled effect by partially melting some chocolate chips into the base mixture. Add extra mini chocolate chips throughout for a more intense chocolate-cherry combination.

FAQs for Cherry Garcia Fudge Lovers

• Why do I need to drain and press the cherries?

Removing excess moisture prevents the fudge from becoming too soft and watery, ensuring a perfect texture and preventing soggy spots in your dessert.

• Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips?

Yes, you can use regular chocolate chips, but mini chips distribute more evenly and create a more consistent flavor throughout the fudge. Roughly chop larger chips if needed.

• Is the cherry-flavored gelatin powder necessary?

The gelatin powder is optional but adds an extra burst of cherry flavor. If you don’t have it, the fudge will still taste delicious with the maraschino cherries and white chocolate base.

• How long can I store this Cherry Garcia Fudge?

The fudge can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. For best taste and texture, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Why Cherry Garcia Fudge Feels Like a Dessert Dream

• Indulge in Decadent Flavor Fusion: Experience the perfect blend of sweet white chocolate, tangy maraschino cherries, and rich chocolate chips that create a mouthwatering symphony of tastes reminiscent of the classic ice cream flavor.
• Master No-Bake Dessert Simplicity: Enjoy an incredibly easy recipe that requires minimal cooking skills, with just simple melting and mixing techniques that deliver impressive results without complicated baking steps.
• Create Quick Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whip up this delightful fudge in under 30 minutes of active preparation, with only 4 hours of chilling time, making it an ideal dessert for last-minute gatherings, potlucks, or spontaneous sweet cravings.
• Customize with Playful Variations: Easily adapt the recipe by experimenting with different chocolate types, adding nuts, or incorporating alternative flavor extracts to make this fudge uniquely yours while maintaining its delicious core concept.

Everything in Cherry Garcia Fudge

• White Chocolate Chips: The creamy foundation that provides smooth texture and sweet flavor for the fudge.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds rich sweetness and helps create a smooth, soft fudge consistency.
• Butter: Enhances richness and helps bind ingredients together smoothly.
• Cherry-Flavored Gelatin Powder: Optional ingredient that boosts cherry flavor and helps set the fudge.

• Maraschino Cherries: Iconic flavor that gives the fudge its signature cherry taste and bright color.

• Mini Chocolate Chips: Dark or semi-sweet chocolate that provides delightful chocolate chunks and contrasts with the sweet cherry flavor.

• Parchment Paper: Essential for easy removal and clean cutting of the fudge.
• Paper Towels: Used for draining and drying cherries to prevent excess moisture.

Easy Instructions for Cherry Garcia Fudge

Step 1: Prepare Cherries

Drain maraschino cherries completely and slice them into tiny bits. Spread chopped cherries between paper towel layers and press softly to remove extra liquid. This helps maintain the fudge’s perfect texture.

Step 2: Create Smooth Chocolate Base

• White chocolate chips
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Unsalted butter
• Cherry-flavored gelatin powder (optional)

Stir constantly until ingredients transform into a silky, glossy mixture.

Step 3: Blend Delicious Additions

• Chopped cherries
• Mini chocolate chips

Mix gently to distribute evenly without breaking chocolate chips.

Step 4: Transfer Fudge Mixture

Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing extra edges for easy lifting. Pour fudge mixture into pan and spread smoothly using a spatula.

Step 5: Decorate Fudge Surface

• Chopped cherries
• Mini chocolate chips

Softly press toppings into fudge surface so they stick perfectly.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Let fudge cool at room temperature. Refrigerate for minimum 4 hours until completely solid.

Step 7: Slice and Enjoy

Lift fudge from pan using parchment paper. Place on cutting board and slice into delightful squares. Serve immediately or store for later indulgence.

Pro Tips for the Smoothest Cherry Garcia Fudge

• Drain Cherries Perfectly: Press chopped maraschino cherries between paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring your fudge stays firm and doesn't become soggy.
• Melt Ingredients Carefully: Use low heat and stir continuously while melting white chocolate, condensed milk, and butter to prevent burning or separating.
• Fold Gently: Mix cherries and chocolate chips with a light hand to maintain distinct textures and prevent unintentional melting.
• Customize Texture: Adjust chocolate chip quantity for more or less crunch, creating a personalized fudge experience.
• Store Smartly: Keep fudge refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one week, maintaining its delicious texture and flavor.

Save Cherry Garcia Fudge for Later the Right Way

• Refrigerate: Wrap the fudge pieces tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Keeps fresh for up to 7 days in the refrigerator.
• Freeze: Layer fudge squares between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. Freezes beautifully for 2-3 months without losing flavor or texture.
• Thaw Gently: Transfer frozen fudge to the refrigerator overnight for slow, even defrosting. Avoid room temperature thawing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Serve Chilled: Enjoy fudge straight from the refrigerator for the best taste and firmest texture. Let sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving if you prefer a softer bite.

Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe

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4.9 from 19 reviews

• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Indulgent cherry garcia fudge brings Italian-inspired sweetness to classic dessert tables with rich chocolate and cherry swirls. Creamy layers and intense flavors make this irresistible treat perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying solo with a cold glass of milk.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 3 cups (540 g / 19 ounces) white chocolate chips
• 2 ½ cups (457 g / 16 ounces) mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 ½ cups (485 g / 17 ounces) maraschino cherries, drained and chopped

Dairy and Binding Ingredients:

• 1 can (14 ounces / 397 g) sweetened condensed milk
• 4 tablespoons (58 g / 2 ounces) unsalted butter

Optional Flavor Enhancer:

• 2 tablespoons cherry-flavored gelatin powder

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Instructions

1. Carefully drain maraschino cherries and mince into tiny fragments. Absorb excess liquid by pressing between paper towel layers to maintain the fudge’s structural integrity.
2. Select a medium saucepan and meld white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, butter, and optional cherry-flavored gelatin over gentle heat. Continuously stir until the mixture transforms into a silky, homogeneous liquid.
3. Extinguish the heat source and tenderly incorporate two-thirds of the chopped cherries and mini chocolate chips. Fold with precision to distribute ingredients evenly without compromising chip integrity.
4. Prepare a rectangular baking vessel by lining with parchment paper, ensuring extended edges for effortless extraction. Cascade the molten fudge mixture into the pan, meticulously smoothing the surface with a flexible spatula.
5. Crown the fudge’s surface with remaining cherry fragments and chocolate chips. Delicately press the garnishes to create a harmonious connection with the underlying layer.
6. Allow the confection to stabilize at ambient temperature, then transfer to refrigeration for a minimum of four hours. The cooling process will solidify the fudge into a firm, sliceable delicacy.
7. Utilize parchment paper handles to elevate the set fudge from its container. Position on a cutting surface and segment into uniform squares using a sharp blade. Serve immediately or preserve for future indulgence.

Notes

• Pat cherries completely dry to prevent moisture ruining the fudge’s texture, ensuring a firm and creamy consistency.
• Melt ingredients slowly and gently to avoid scorching white chocolate, which can become grainy and affect the smooth finish.
• Use room temperature ingredients for even melting and smoother incorporation, creating a more uniform fudge texture.
• Experiment with alternative flavor variations by swapping cherry gelatin for other fruit powders or extracts, allowing creative customization.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 321
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 75mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 31mg