If you have a sweet tooth craving that combines rich chocolate with bursts of cherry goodness, then this Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. Inspired by the iconic flavor of the beloved Cherry Garcia ice cream, this fudge melds velvety semi-sweet chocolate with chewy dried cherries, juicy maraschino cherries, and crunchy walnuts, creating a sensational treat that’s both nostalgic and delightfully unique. Trust me, once you try this Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe, you’ll want to keep it on hand for holidays, parties, or just to brighten an ordinary day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe shine is the simplicity and quality of its ingredients, each carefully contributing to the luscious taste, texture, and color that make every bite a delight. Here’s a quick look at what you’ll need and why each element matters.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: The star of the show, offering the creamy, rich chocolate base for the fudge.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds smooth sweetness and helps achieve that perfect fudgy texture.
- Chopped dried cherries: Provide a chewy burst of tart cherry flavor that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate.
- Chopped walnuts: Bring a satisfying crunch and earthy nuttiness that balances the sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate and cherry flavors with a warm, aromatic touch.
- Chopped maraschino cherries (well drained): Add juicy, colorful pops and extra cherry zest without making the fudge too soft.
How to Make Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Leave enough overhang on the sides so you can easily lift out the fudge later. This simple step is key to getting neat, even cuts once your fudge has set.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Sweetened Condensed Milk
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine your semi-sweet chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly to make sure the chocolate melts evenly and doesn’t scorch. When the mixture is silky smooth, take it off the heat. This careful melting ensures a luxuriously creamy texture for your fudge.
Step 3: Mix in the Flavors
Now it’s time for the magic: stir in the vanilla extract, chopped dried cherries, walnuts, and well-drained maraschino cherries. Mix everything until the ingredients are spread evenly, so that every bite of your Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe captures all the distinctive flavors and textures.
Step 4: Chill Until Set
Pour the rich fudge mixture into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 to 3 hours, or until completely firm. Patience is a virtue here because this chilling step solidifies the fudge into perfect squares.
Step 5: Slice and Enjoy
Once the fudge is firm, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut it into 36 small squares — just the right size for sharing (or sneaking an extra piece yourself). Your homemade Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe is now ready to savor!
How to Serve Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a few extra chopped walnuts or placing a single maraschino cherry on top of each fudge square adds a visual flair and hints at the delightful ingredients inside. Dusting with a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt can beautifully elevate the chocolate’s richness and balance sweetness.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs wonderfully with fresh berries, especially strawberries or raspberries, which amplify the cherry notes. For a truly indulgent treat, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a mug of creamy hot chocolate to make dessert time feel extra special.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap individual fudge squares in decorative parchment and tie with colorful ribbons for gift-giving or party favors. Alternatively, arrange them on a festive platter with edible flowers and sprinkle some edible glitter for a stunning presentation that’s sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe squares keep best in an airtight container stored in the refrigerator. This helps maintain their fudge-like consistency and prevents the dried cherries from becoming too soft. You can enjoy them over the course of a week without any loss of flavor or texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a sealed freezer-safe container. Frozen fudge can last for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to preserve the fudgy texture and fresh cherry flavor.
Reheating
Fudge doesn’t typically require reheating, but if you want a softer bite, let the pieces sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can change the texture and cause the chocolate to seize.
FAQs
Can I substitute other nuts for walnuts in the Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe?
Absolutely! Pecans or almonds work wonderfully and offer their own unique crunch and flavor. Just be sure to chop them finely to ensure they mix evenly into the fudge.
Do I have to use both dried cherries and maraschino cherries?
Using both gives the fudge its signature combination of chewy and juicy cherry textures, but you can omit one if needed. Just keep in mind the flavor and moisture balance may be slightly different.
How long does the fudge need to chill to set properly?
Plan on refrigerating it for at least 2 to 3 hours. This timeframe ensures the fudge is firm enough to slice cleanly without melting or crumbling.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! All the ingredients in this Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe are vegetarian-friendly, making it a great dessert option for those following a vegetarian diet.
Can I make this fudge without a stovetop?
You can melt the chocolate and condensed milk using a microwave, heating in short bursts and stirring frequently. Just be careful to avoid overheating the mixture to maintain that perfect smooth texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a show-stopping treat that marries rich chocolate with cherries in a way that feels both indulgent and comforting, the Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe will quickly become a beloved staple. Easy to make yet packed with vibrant flavors and textures, it’s an irresistible choice for sharing or keeping all to yourself. Give it a try—you won’t regret adding this delightful fudge to your dessert rotation!
Print
Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 36 small squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cherry Garcia Fudge is a rich and creamy homemade fudge inspired by the classic Ben & Jerry’s flavor. Featuring a luscious blend of semi-sweet chocolate, dried cherries, maraschino cherries, and crunchy walnuts, it’s a perfect indulgent dessert or holiday treat that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Fudge Mixture
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chopped dried cherries
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries, well drained and patted dry
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the fudge once set.
- Melt the chocolate: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture becomes smooth, then remove the pan from heat.
- Add flavor and mix-ins: Stir in the vanilla extract, chopped dried cherries, walnuts, and the well-drained maraschino cherries. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients throughout the fudge base.
- Set the fudge: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly using a spatula. Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 to 3 hours, or until the fudge is completely firm.
- Serve: Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut the fudge into 36 small squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Thoroughly blot the maraschino cherries to remove excess moisture, which helps prevent the fudge from becoming too soft.
- You can substitute almonds or pecans for the walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
- Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
