Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares

Name: Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 2 cups dark chocolate chips; 1 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1 cup chopped fresh cherries; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional); Sea salt for sprinkling

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares for gatherings. The rich chocolate mixed with the juicy tartness of cherries creates a decadent flavor that everyone adores. It’s a recipe that always gets rave reviews and keeps my friends coming back for more. The best part is that they are super easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and just a little bit of patience while they set. Indulging in these fudge squares is like a little bite of heaven in every square!

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:43:12.087Z

While experimenting in the kitchen, I discovered that combining chocolate and cherries created a delightful fudge that’s hard to resist. I tried different ratios of chocolate and cherries, ultimately finding that a balance of both yielded the best results. The hint of cherry not only adds flavor but also a beautiful color to the fudge, making it visually appealing. My friends can never guess just how easy it was to make!

I recommend chilling the fudge until it’s completely set, ideally for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it ensures the squares hold their shape when cut. I also found that adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top enhances the overall flavor profile. Trust me, this is a game-changer!

        Why You'll Love These Fudge Squares
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with tart cherry bits
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Quick and simple to make with just a few ingredients
Perfect for gifting or serving at parties

      

Mastering the Fudge Texture

Achieving the perfect texture in your Chocolate Cherry Fudge is all about the melting process. When combining the dark chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk, keep the heat at low and stir continuously: this prevents the chocolate from seizing and ensures you get a silky, creamy mixture. If it becomes too thick while melting, a splash of extra condensed milk can help restore its smoothness, so don’t hesitate to add a little if necessary.

Once your fudge mixture is ready, it's crucial to pour it into the baking dish promptly while it's still warm and pourable. This will aid in even spreading and prevent it from hardening too quickly. Use a spatula to gently push the mixture into the corners of the dish, ensuring a consistent thickness that will set uniformly.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of chocolate chips is vital for the flavor depth of your fudge. Dark chocolate chips bring out a rich, complex taste that balances beautifully with the tartness of the cherries. If you prefer a sweeter option, semi-sweet chocolate chips can be used, but consider reducing the amount of sweetened condensed milk slightly to ensure the fudge doesn't become overly sweet.

When selecting fresh cherries, look for firm, plump ones with vibrant color, as these will provide the best flavor burst in your fudge. If fresh cherries are out of season, you can substitute with high-quality frozen cherries. Just be sure to thaw and rinse them well before chopping to prevent excess moisture from affecting the fudge consistency.

Ingredients

For Chocolate Cherry Fudge

2 cups dark chocolate chips
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 cup chopped fresh cherries
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions

Prepare the Fudge Mixture

In a saucepan over low heat, combine the dark chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, chopped cherries, and nuts if using.

Pour and Set

Pour the fudge mixture into a greased 8x8 inch square baking dish. Ensure it is evenly spread. Sprinkle a little sea salt on top if desired. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.

Cut and Serve

Once set, remove the fudge from the dish and cut into squares. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, you can add a swirl of cherry jam on top of the fudge before it sets.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares can be made ahead of time, making them an excellent option for parties or gifting. After cutting the fudge into squares, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This helps preserve their freshness and maintains their perfect texture.

If you find yourself with extra fudge, consider freezing it! Arrange the squares in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months; just allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight when you're ready to enjoy them again.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your presentation, serve these fudge squares with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess complements the rich chocolate and tart cherry flavors beautifully. You could also drizzle a little chocolate sauce on top for added decadence or garnish with more fresh cherries for an inviting touch.

For a festive twist, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed nuts on top before serving. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the texture with a delightful crunch. Alternatively, you can try varying the nuts based on seasonal availability or personal preference—almonds and pecans both make splendid choices.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, frozen cherries work well. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding.

→ How long can I store the fudge?

The fudge can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.

→ Can I substitute the dark chocolate?

You can use milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate, but the flavor may vary slightly.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free!