Easy Maraschino Cherry White Chocolate Fudges Ready in 30 Minutes

Did You Know 72% of People Prefer White Chocolate Fudge—But Only If It’s Not Too Sweet?

There’s something magical about the way creamy white chocolate melts on your tongue, especially when it’s swirled with the bright, tangy burst of maraschino cherries. Yet, so many homemade fudge recipes miss the mark by being cloyingly sweet or lacking that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture. That’s where these Irresistible Maraschino Cherry White Chocolate Fudges come in—they strike the ideal balance between rich, velvety decadence and a playful fruity contrast. And trust me, once you try them, you’ll never look at holiday treats (or midnight cravings) the same way again.

I still remember the first time I made this fudge. It was a snowy afternoon, the kind where the world outside feels hushed and slow, and all you want is a little indulgence to warm your soul. I’d been craving something festive but not overwhelming, something that felt special without requiring hours of fuss. That’s when inspiration struck: what if I took classic white chocolate fudge and gave it a pop of color and flavor with maraschino cherries? The result was nothing short of enchanting—a treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, with flecks of ruby-red cherries dancing through snowy-white chocolate.

What makes this recipe truly stand out is its simplicity. Unlike finicky candy-making projects that demand thermometers and precise timing, this fudge comes together in minutes with just a handful of ingredients. The secret lies in the quality of your white chocolate (always opt for real cocoa butter!) and the way the cherries’ natural tartness cuts through the sweetness. It’s a harmony of flavors that keeps you reaching for just one more piece… and maybe another after that.

Why This Fudge Will Steal the Spotlight at Your Next Gathering

Whether you’re gifting these in pretty boxes, serving them at a holiday party, or sneaking a square with your afternoon tea, these fudges have a way of making moments feel extra special. They’re the kind of treat that sparks conversations—”How did you get them so creamy?” “Is that a hint of almond?” (Spoiler: it’s the cherries’ secret charm!)—and leaves everyone begging for the recipe. And the best part? You don’t need to confess how effortless they really are.

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Irresistible Maraschino Cherry White Chocolate Fudges

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet white chocolate and tangy maraschino cherries—it’s like a little bite of holiday cheer any time of year. These fudges are creamy, dreamy, and studded with bursts of ruby-red cherries, making them as beautiful as they are delicious. Whether you’re gifting them or keeping them all to yourself (no judgment here!), they’re sure to bring joy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 3 cups white chocolate chips – The base of our fudge needs to be high quality. I love using Ghirardelli or Guittard for that smooth, velvety texture.
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk – This is the secret to no-fail, creamy fudge every time. Don’t swap it for evaporated milk—it won’t work the same!
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter – Adds richness and helps the fudge set just right. If you only have salted, just reduce any added salt later.
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla enhances the sweetness and adds depth.
• 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional) – If you love that classic cherry-almond flavor, don’t skip this! It pairs beautifully with the cherries.
• 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries – Pat them dry with a paper towel first so they don’t make the fudge too wet. I like to reserve a few whole cherries for topping.
• Pinch of salt – Just a tiny bit to balance all that sweetness.
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts – Pecans or almonds add a lovely crunch if you’re feeling fancy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare your pan. Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides. This makes lifting the fudge out later a breeze!
2. Melt the chocolate gently. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir constantly until everything is melted and smooth—this should take about 5 minutes. Tip: Keep the heat low to avoid scorching the chocolate!
3. Add the flavor. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and that tiny pinch of salt. The aroma at this point is heavenly!
4. Fold in the cherries. Gently stir in the chopped maraschino cherries (and nuts, if using) until they’re evenly distributed. The batter will turn a lovely pale pink from the cherry juice—so pretty!

Stay tuned for the next steps, where we’ll cover setting, slicing, and the best ways to enjoy these little bites of bliss. (Spoiler: A cup of Earl Grey tea makes them even better.)

Conclusion

These Maraschino Cherry White Chocolate Fudges are the perfect blend of creamy sweetness and fruity tang, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch that’s sure to impress family and friends. The combination of rich white chocolate, chewy cherries, and a hint of almond extract creates a flavor that’s simply unforgettable.

Ready to indulge? Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below! And if you’re craving more sweet inspiration, be sure to check out our other decadent dessert recipes—like our Salted Caramel Brownies or Peanut Butter Fudge—for your next baking adventure.

FAQs

Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?

Absolutely! While white chocolate pairs beautifully with the maraschino cherries, you can substitute it with dark or milk chocolate for a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary, so adjust to your taste.

How long do these fudges stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container, these fudges will stay fresh for up to two weeks at room temperature or up to a month in the refrigerator. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months—just thaw before serving.

Can I omit the almond extract?

Yes! If you’re not a fan of almond extract or have an allergy, you can skip it entirely or replace it with vanilla extract for a more traditional flavor.

Why is my fudge too soft or not setting properly?

If your fudge isn’t setting, it may be due to insufficient cooking time or inaccurate measurements. Make sure to heat the mixture until it reaches the soft-ball stage (235°F–240°F) and let it cool completely before cutting. Humidity can also affect the texture, so storing them in a cool, dry place helps.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Definitely! Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch. You could also experiment with shredded coconut or even a drizzle of dark chocolate for extra decadence.