Cherry Garcia Fudge: A Sweet, Creamy Delight

Cherry Garcia Fudge is a decadent treat that combines the smooth, velvety goodness of chocolate with the sweet, tart kick of cherries. Inspired by the famous ice cream flavor from Ben & Jerry’s, this fudge captures all the rich flavors in a bite-sized form. Whether you’re a fan of chocolate, cherries, or both, this dessert is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love Cherry Garcia Fudge 🍫🍒

• Creamy and Decadent – The perfect combination of smooth chocolate and tangy cherries.
• Easy to Make – With minimal ingredients, this fudge comes together quickly.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday, a party, or just a treat for yourself, Cherry Garcia Fudge works for any occasion.
• No-Bake – No oven required! Just a bit of time in the fridge, and you’re ready to enjoy.

Key Ingredients for Cherry Garcia Fudge 🛒

To make this delicious fudge, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. Let’s gather everything you need:

🍫 For the Fudge Base:

• 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips – Rich and smooth for that chocolatey base.
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk – This gives the fudge its creamy texture.
• 2 tbsp butter – For added richness.
• ½ tsp vanilla extract – For a touch of warmth and flavor.

🍒 For the Cherry Add-ins:

• 1 cup dried cherries – These give the fudge that signature tart-sweet flavor.
• ½ cup chopped maraschino cherries – For a little extra cherry goodness!
• ¼ cup mini chocolate chips – To enhance the chocolate experience.

🧂 Optional Toppings:

• Flaked sea salt – A sprinkle to enhance the flavor contrast (optional but highly recommended!).

Substitutions & Variations 🌟

Want to make some changes? Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:

• Dried Cherries – If you don’t have dried cherries, you can use cranberries for a slightly different tartness.
• Maraschino Cherries – For an even more authentic Cherry Garcia feel, you can use fresh cherries. Just make sure to dry them well before adding to the fudge.
• Dark Chocolate – Swap semi-sweet chocolate for dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
• Almonds or Walnuts – Add some crunch by including chopped nuts of your choice.

Step-by-Step Instructions 🍳

Now, let’s get started on making this irresistible Cherry Garcia Fudge! Follow these steps for the perfect fudge.

Step 1: Prepare the Fudge Base 🍫

1. Melt the Chocolate: In a medium saucepan, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips over low heat, stirring constantly. 💡 Pro Tip: Be patient and stir gently to avoid burning the chocolate. You can also use a double boiler method to melt it evenly.
2. Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: Once the chocolate is melted, pour in the sweetened condensed milk. Stir until fully combined. The mixture should be smooth and thick.
3. Mix in Butter: Add the butter and continue stirring until the butter has completely melted and the fudge mixture becomes smooth and glossy.
4. Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract for an extra burst of flavor that will enhance the overall fudge.

Step 2: Add the Cherry & Chocolate Mix-ins 🍒🍫

1. Prepare the Cherries: While the fudge base is cooling, chop the dried cherries and maraschino cherries into small pieces. 💡 Pro Tip: Pat the maraschino cherries with a paper towel to remove excess moisture before chopping.
2. Add to Fudge: Once the fudge base is smooth, fold in the dried cherries, maraschino cherries, and mini chocolate chips.
3. Even Distribution: Stir the mixture carefully to ensure the cherries and chocolate are evenly spread throughout the fudge.

Step 3: Set the Fudge 🍽️

1. Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper. This will prevent the fudge from sticking and make it easier to remove after it’s set.
2. Pour the Fudge: Transfer the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth it into an even layer.
3. Optional Toppings: If you want a bit of extra flair, sprinkle some flaked sea salt on top of the fudge. This adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
4. Chill: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2–3 hours, or until it has set and is firm to the touch.

Step 4: Slice & Serve 🍽️

1. Cut into Squares: Once the fudge has fully set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper. Place it on a cutting board and slice it into small squares.
2. Serve & Enjoy: Serve the fudge immediately, or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Storage & Shelf Life 🧊

• Refrigeration: Store your Cherry Garcia Fudge in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the fudge in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving.

Serving Suggestions 🍽️

Cherry Garcia Fudge is delicious on its own, but here are a few ways to enjoy it even more:

• As a Gift – Package the fudge in a decorative tin or box to give as a gift for holidays or special occasions.
• On Top of Ice Cream – Crumble some fudge over your favorite ice cream for a delicious topping.
• With Coffee – Pair a square of fudge with your morning coffee for a sweet and satisfying treat.

FAQ About Cherry Garcia Fudge ❓

1. Can I use a different type of chocolate for this fudge? 🍫

Yes! You can swap semi-sweet chocolate for milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate, depending on your preference. Each type will give the fudge a slightly different flavor profile, but all are delicious.

2. Can I add other fruits to the fudge? 🍓🍊

Absolutely! You can experiment with other dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or even dried blueberries. Just be sure to chop them into small pieces before mixing them into the fudge.

3. How do I make this fudge smoother? 🤔

If your fudge is too thick, you can add a tablespoon of milk or heavy cream to the mixture to smooth it out while melting the chocolate. This will give it a creamier texture.

4. Can I make this fudge vegan? 🌱

Yes! To make it vegan, swap the sweetened condensed milk for a dairy-free condensed milk alternative, and use vegan chocolate chips. This way, you can enjoy the fudge without any animal products.

5. Can I double the recipe? 🍴

Of course! Just use a larger baking dish (like a 9×13-inch) and double all the ingredients. You may need to adjust the chilling time slightly depending on the thickness of the fudge.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Cherry Garcia Fudge 🍒🍫

Cherry Garcia Fudge is the perfect way to indulge your sweet tooth while enjoying a flavorful combination of chocolate and cherries. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a homemade dessert, this fudge will never disappoint. It’s creamy, decadent, and packed with the perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors.

The best part? It’s super easy to make and requires no baking. With a few simple ingredients, you can create this delicious treat that’s sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.

Give this recipe a try, and prepare for your taste buds to dance with joy! 😋🎉