Name: Decadent Chocolate Cherry Nut Fudge That's No-Bake Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 375 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Milk Chocolate Morsels (Can be substituted with dark, semi-sweet, or white chocolate.); 1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk (Evaporated milk can be used for a lighter option.); 1 cup Maraschino Cherries (Ensure cherries are well-drained and chopped.); 1 cup Nuts (Almonds, Walnuts, Pecans) (Any crushed nut variety can be substituted.); 1 teaspoon Almond Extract (Vanilla extract can be used as an alternative.); optional Sprinkles or Melted Chocolate (For a festive touch.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the joy of whipping up a delightful treat that requires minimal effort and maximum flavor. Enter the Easy Chocolate Cherry Nut Fudge! This delectable no-bake dessert is a celebration of rich chocolate, sweet cherries, and the satisfying crunch of nuts, all combined in one mouthwatering bite. With just five simple ingredients and a microwave, you’ll have a festive indulgence that’s not only quick to prepare but also perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re treating yourself or crafting gifts for the holidays, this fudge promises to impress every recipient. Ready to elevate your dessert game and discover the magic of this creamy delight? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is This Fudge So Irresistible?

Decadent Flavor: The rich chocolate, vibrant cherries, and crunchy nuts burst with flavor in every bite. Effortless Preparation: With just five ingredients and a microwave, creating this fudge is a breeze, making it perfect for even novice bakers. No-Bake Wonder: Skip the oven and still impress your guests with this exquisite treat. Customizable Options: Vary the chocolate or nut choices to keep things fresh, just like our delicious Double Chocolate Chip Cookies. Perfect for Gifting: Packaged beautifully, this fudge makes a lovely homemade gift that your friends and family will adore. Crowd Favorite: Whether it’s for a holiday party or a casual gathering, everyone will be back for seconds!

Chocolate Cherry Nut Fudge Ingredients

• Whip up your delicious fudge with these five essential ingredients!

For the Fudge

Milk Chocolate Morsels – Provides the base chocolate flavor; feel free to swap for dark, semi-sweet, or white chocolate for varied indulgence.
Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds creaminess and ensures sweetness; for a lighter touch, you can use evaporated milk instead.
Maraschino Cherries – Adds delightful tartness and vibrant color; ensure they’re well-drained to prevent a gooey fudge.
Nuts (Almonds, Walnuts, Pecans) – Adds a satisfying crunch and depth of flavor; any crushed nut variety can be substituted based on your taste.
Almond Extract – Elevates the overall flavor; if you prefer, vanilla extract makes a lovely alternative.

For Extra Toppings

Sprinkles or Melted Chocolate – For a festive touch, consider adding sprinkles or drizzling with chocolate before chilling.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Cherry Nut Fudge

Step 1: Prepare the Cherries
Begin by draining the maraschino cherries, ensuring to remove excess moisture. Pat them dry with paper towels, then chop them into small pieces to incorporate throughout your fudge. This step is crucial as it prevents your chocolate cherry nut fudge from becoming sticky. Set aside the chopped cherries while you proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Combine Chocolate and Milk
In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk chocolate morsels and the sweetened condensed milk. Stir them together briefly to ensure even mixing. This mixture will create the creamy base of your chocolate cherry nut fudge. Place the bowl in the microwave and heat it in 30-second increments. Stir after each interval until the mixture is smooth and fully melted, which should take about 1.5 to 2 minutes.

Step 3: Add Flavorings
Once your chocolate mixture is smooth and creamy, remove it from the microwave and stir in the almond extract. The almond extract enhances the flavors beautifully, elevating the taste of your fudge. Make sure to mix thoroughly, ensuring the extract is evenly distributed, which will make each bite of your chocolate cherry nut fudge burst with flavor.

Step 4: Mix in Cherries and Nuts
Now it’s time to fold in the prepared chopped cherries and your choice of crushed nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans. Use a spatula to gently stir the mixture until all ingredients are evenly combined. This step ensures that every piece of fudge is filled with delightful textures and flavors, making your chocolate cherry nut fudge a unique treat.

Step 5: Shape the Fudge
Line a baking dish (8×8 inch works well) with parchment paper for easy removal later. Transfer your fudge mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly with a rubber spatula. Press down lightly to create a uniform layer. This helps in achieving a smooth and structured fudge that holds its shape beautifully.

Step 6: Chill and Set
Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and allow the fudge to chill for 4 to 6 hours, or until it’s fully set. This step is essential for achieving the right texture. Once chilled, the fudge should feel firm to the touch and have a glossy finish, signaling that it’s ready to be cut into delicious squares.

Step 7: Cut and Serve
After your fudge has set, carefully lift it out of the baking dish using the parchment paper. Place it on a cutting board and cut into bite-sized cubes or desired shapes. Your chocolate cherry nut fudge is now perfectly portioned and ready to be served, shared, or beautifully wrapped for gifting!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Cherry Nut Fudge

• Cherries Matter: Ensure the maraschino cherries are well-drained and patted dry to prevent your fudge from becoming sticky and too moist.

• Microwave Caution: Use a large microwave-safe bowl and be cautious of overheating. The chocolate mixture can burn quickly if not stirred frequently.

• Setting Time: Allow enough chilling time in the refrigerator. The fudge needs 4-6 hours to set properly, ensuring a solid texture.

• Easy Cuts: Use a sharp knife to cut the chilled fudge into squares for clean edges. For an added touch, warm the knife slightly to ease cutting.

• Storage Advice: Store the chocolate cherry nut fudge in an airtight container in the fridge for optimal freshness. It will stay delicious for up to 4 weeks!

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Cherry Nut Fudge squares are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the fudge mixture up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps of draining and chopping the cherries, melting the chocolate and sweetened condensed milk, and mixing in the flavorings, cherries, and nuts. Simply cover the prepared fudge with plastic wrap before refrigerating it to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to serve, just remove it from the refrigerator, let sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes, and then cut it into squares for perfectly indulgent treats that are just as delicious!

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Cherry Nut Fudge

Fridge: Store the chocolate cherry nut fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks. This will keep the fudge fresh and maintain its delightful texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the fudge in an airtight container or tightly wrapped with plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Ensure the fudge is completely cool before freezing to maintain its quality.

Thawing: To enjoy frozen fudge, simply transfer it to the fridge for several hours or overnight to thaw. This gentle method will help retain the creamy consistency.

Cutting Chilled Fudge: If you find the fudge too hard to cut after freezing, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing into your desired pieces.

Chocolate Cherry Nut Fudge Variations

Embrace the opportunity to personalize your fudge experience with these delightful variations that will tantalize your taste buds.

Nuts Galore: Swap the almonds for cashews, hazelnuts, or leave them out entirely for a nut-free version. Cashews add a creamy texture that complements the chocolate beautifully.
Chocolate Variety: Experiment with different chocolates! Use white chocolate for a sweeter, lighter fudge or dark chocolate for a richer, more intense flavor. Each variation will create a unique taste sensation.
Dried Fruit Twist: Add in some dried cranberries or apricots for a chewy contrast to the smoothness of the fudge. The tangy notes of cranberries can enhance the festive vibe.
Festive Sprinkles: Top your fudge with colorful sprinkles or chopped nuts before chilling to make it more visually appealing—they add a pop of color that’s perfect for celebrations.
Flavor Enhancements: Substitute almond extract with vanilla or orange zest for a refreshing twist. The citrus notes will brighten the overall flavor profile!
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle on extra melted chocolate after spreading your fudge, creating a luxurious finish that will wow anyone lucky enough to receive it.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the mix. It creates an unexpected but delightful warmth in an otherwise sweet treat.
Pair with Desserts: Serve your fudge alongside a slice of rich chocolate cake or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. It makes for an exquisite dessert spread, especially when included with our Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Balls or Double Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your perfect Chocolate Cherry Nut Fudge!

What to Serve with Chocolate Cherry Nut Fudge

Indulging in this creamy and nutty fudge opens the door to a heavenly experience that begs for delightful companions.

Fresh Berries: Bright, tart berries like strawberries or raspberries offer a refreshing contrast that balances the sweetness of the fudge.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, creamy ice cream complements the rich flavors, creating a blissful pairing perfect for dessert lovers.
Coffee or Espresso: A bold cup of coffee enhances the chocolate depth, providing a warm, inviting experience with every bite.
Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: Salty, crunchy pretzels dipped in chocolate provide delightful texture, adding a playful twist to your dessert setup.
Nutty Biscotti: A crunchy, lightly sweet biscotti rich in nuts echoes the fudge’s delightful elements, making tea time a true treat.
Whipped Cream: Light, airy whipped cream balances the dense fudge while adding a cloud-like texture, elevating your dessert presentation beautifully.
Sparkling Water: A refreshing, bubbly drink cleanses the palate, allowing each bite of fudge to shine in all its chocolaty glory.
Cheese Platter: Pairing with mild cheeses like brie adds a savory note, creating a surprising yet delightful balance to the rich dessert.

Chocolate Cherry Nut Fudge Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe maraschino cherries?
Absolutely! When selecting maraschino cherries, look for those that are vibrant red and glossy. Avoid cherries with dark spots all over, as this can indicate spoilage. Ensure they are well-drained and patted dry to prevent excess moisture in your fudge, which can lead to stickiness.

How should I store chocolate cherry nut fudge?
Very simply! Store your chocolate cherry nut fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks. This keeps it fresh and maintains its luscious texture. Make sure to separate layers of fudge with parchment paper if stacking them to prevent sticking.

Can I freeze chocolate cherry nut fudge?
Absolutely! To freeze your fudge, make sure it’s completely cool first. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, or place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight before serving.

What should I do if my fudge turned out too soft?
If your fudge ended up too soft, don’t worry! The first step is to check that you allowed enough time for the fudge to cool and set in the refrigerator, usually 4 to 6 hours. If it still seems soft after this, you can try placing it back in the refrigerator to firm up further. However, if all else fails, crumbling the fudge into a dessert topping for ice cream or yogurt can be a delicious alternative!

Are there any allergy considerations for this fudge?
Of course! If you want to accommodate allergies, be cautious with the nuts used; you can easily make this fudge nut-free by omitting them altogether or substituting with seeds like sunflower seeds for crunch. Additionally, ensure the chocolate and other ingredients are free from dairy or gluten if you have specific sensitivities.