CHERRY GARCIA FUDGE

Published: December 12, 2025

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare – With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious fudge in no time.
Rich Flavor – The combination of white chocolate and dark chocolate with cherries creates a decadent taste that everyone will enjoy.
Versatile Treat – Perfect for holidays, parties, or as a homemade gift for friends and family.
No-Bake Convenience – Enjoy the ease of making fudge without turning on the oven.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight – This recipe makes 24 servings, ensuring there’s enough to share (or not!).

Tools and Preparation

To make your Cherry Garcia Fudge successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your process and enhance your results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Saucepan
Mixing spoon
8×8-inch pan
Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

Saucepan – A good saucepan allows for even melting of the chocolate, ensuring a smooth consistency.
Mixing Spoon – A sturdy mixing spoon helps combine ingredients thoroughly without breaking them apart.
8×8-inch Pan – This size is perfect for setting the fudge evenly, making it easy to cut into squares later.
Parchment Paper – Lining your pan with parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

For the Fudge Base

2 cups white chocolate chips
1 can (14 oz sweetened condensed milk)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt

For the Mix-Ins

½ cup dried cherries (chopped)
½ cup dark chocolate chunks

How to Make CHERRY GARCIA FUDGE

Step 1: Melt Chocolate

In a saucepan over low heat, melt the white chocolate chips together with the sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly to prevent burning.

Step 2: Add Flavorings

Once melted, remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, mixing until well combined.

Step 3: Mix in Add-Ins

Gently fold in the chopped dried cherries and dark chocolate chunks, ensuring an even distribution throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Set the Fudge

Pour your mixture into a lined 8×8-inch pan. Use a spatula to smooth out the top so it’s even.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. Once set, cut into squares and enjoy your Cherry Garcia Fudge!

How to Serve CHERRY GARCIA FUDGE

Cherry Garcia Fudge is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its appeal. Whether for a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, these serving suggestions will make your fudge even more enjoyable.

Individual Squares

Cut the fudge into bite-sized squares for easy serving. Place them in decorative paper liners for a festive touch.

Fudge and Ice Cream Sundae

Top a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream with warm Cherry Garcia Fudge. Add whipped cream and a cherry on top for an indulgent treat.

Platter Presentation

Arrange fudge squares on a platter alongside fresh cherries and dark chocolate shavings. This colorful presentation is perfect for parties.

Gift Packaging

Wrap pieces of fudge in cellophane bags tied with ribbons. They make excellent homemade gifts for friends and family.

Coffee Pairing

Serve with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso. The bitterness of the coffee complements the sweetness of the fudge beautifully.

How to Perfect CHERRY GARCIA FUDGE

Making the perfect Cherry Garcia Fudge requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. These guidelines ensure your fudge turns out creamy and flavorful every time.

Use quality chocolate – Choose high-quality white chocolate chips and dark chocolate chunks for better flavor.
Chop cherries finely – This ensures even distribution throughout the fudge, enhancing every bite with cherry goodness.
Avoid overheating – Melt the chocolate over low heat to prevent burning, which can affect the texture.
Line your pan – Use parchment paper or foil to line your pan, making it easier to remove the fudge once set.
Cool completely before cutting – Allow the fudge to chill in the refrigerator until fully set for neat, clean cuts.

Best Side Dishes for CHERRY GARCIA FUDGE

Pairing side dishes with Cherry Garcia Fudge can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options that complement this sweet treat perfectly.

Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the rich fudge.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries – These sweet bites are perfect for indulging alongside the fudgy dessert.
Vanilla Bean Ice Cream – The creaminess balances well with the dense texture of the fudge.
Nuts and Dried Fruits Platter – A variety of nuts and dried fruits provide crunchy texture and additional flavors.
Coffee or Espresso – The bitterness of coffee pairs nicely with the sweet fudge, making it a great after-dinner option.
Whipped Cream – A dollop on top of each serving enhances richness and provides a light touch against the fudge’s heaviness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cherry Garcia Fudge can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are a few mistakes and how to avoid them:

Using low-quality chocolate – The flavor of your fudge relies heavily on the quality of the chocolate. Opt for high-quality white chocolate chips for the best results.
Not measuring ingredients accurately – Inaccurate measurements can affect texture and taste. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise quantities.
Skipping the chilling step – If you don’t refrigerate the fudge long enough, it won’t set properly. Ensure it chills for at least 2 hours before cutting.
Overheating the mixture – Melting chocolate too quickly can cause it to seize. Always melt over low heat while stirring continuously.
Not lining the pan – Fudge can stick to the pan, making it hard to remove. Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Keep in an airtight container – This helps maintain freshness.
Store for up to 1 week – Enjoy your Cherry Garcia Fudge within this time frame.

Freezing CHERRY GARCIA FUDGE

Use freezer-safe containers – Make sure they are airtight to prevent freezer burn.
Freeze for up to 3 months – Thaw in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.

Reheating CHERRY GARCIA FUDGE

Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm fudge wrapped in foil for about 10 minutes.
Microwave – Heat in short bursts of 10 seconds until slightly warm; avoid overheating.
Stovetop – Place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until softened.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Cherry Garcia Fudge that might help you along the way:

Can I use other fruits in Cherry Garcia Fudge?

Yes! You can experiment with other dried fruits like cranberries or blueberries for unique flavors.

How do I make Cherry Garcia Fudge vegan?

Replace sweetened condensed milk with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips.

What is the best way to cut CHERRY GARCIA FUDGE?

Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water for clean cuts, ensuring even squares.

Can I replace dried cherries with fresh ones?

Fresh cherries have a higher moisture content and may change the texture. Dried cherries are recommended for best results.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Garcia Fudge is not only rich and indulgent but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts or different types of chocolate chunks. This easy recipe makes it perfect for gatherings, gifts, or satisfying those sweet cravings. Give it a try and enjoy every delicious bite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card