This Cranberry Orange Fudge is a bright and festive treat that’s perfect for any holiday table. Sweet white chocolate meets tangy cranberries and zesty orange for a delightful mix!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Chocolate: This provides the creamy base for the fudge. I often use white chocolate chips because they melt easily. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can try dark chocolate for a twist, but it will change the overall flavor.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Essential for that rich, creamy texture. If you’re watching your sugar intake, sweetened condensed coconut milk can be a great substitute, offering a similar texture with a different taste.
Cranberries: I love using dried cranberries for their chewy texture. Fresh cranberries can also work, but make sure to dry them slightly. If they’re unavailable, try chopped cherries or raisins for a fun change!
Orange Zest: This brightens up the fudge. If fresh oranges aren’t on hand, you can use orange extract as a substitute, though it’s more potent, so use just half the amount.
How Do I Make Sure My Fudge Sets Perfectly?
Getting the fudge to set right is key for that smooth texture. You want to make sure to melt the chocolate gently! Here’s how to do it:
- Use low heat to prevent burning. Stir constantly for a smooth mix.
- Once you add the cranberries and pour the mixture into the pan, spread it evenly to get uniform pieces.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours; longer is better! This ensures it firms up properly.
Pro tip: If your fudge is too soft after chilling, you can pop it back into the fridge for another hour or two. If done right, it should cut beautifully!
Cranberry Orange Fudge
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 orange (about 1 tablespoon)
- 1 cup dried or fresh cranberries (if fresh, lightly dried or frozen)
- Pinch of salt
Time Estimate:
This delightful fudge will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 2 hours to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’ll need about 2 hours and 15 minutes to enjoy this sweet treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pan:
Start by lining an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Leave a bit of overhang so you can lift the fudge out easily later. This ensures clean slices without sticking!
2. Melt the Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Place it over low heat, stirring constantly until everything is completely melted and has a smooth consistency. Be patient, it’s important to avoid rushing this stage to prevent burning!
3. Add Flavors:
Once melted, take the saucepan off the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, orange zest, and a pinch of salt, mixing well to combine all the flavors. You’ll love that fresh citrus aroma!
4. Incorporate the Cranberries:
Carefully fold in the cranberries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the fudge mixture. This will give every bite that lovely combination of sweet and tart!
5. Pour and Spread:
Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, smoothing the top to ensure it sets nicely.
6. Chill the Fudge:
Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, or until it’s nice and firm. This step is crucial to achieving that perfect fudge texture!
7. Cut and Serve:
Once the fudge is set, lift it out of the pan using the overhang from the parchment paper. Cut the fudge into squares, and admire how beautifully it looks before serving!
8. Storage:
Store your delicious fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It’s a great treat to share with family and friends during the holiday season or any time you need a little sweetness!
Enjoy this creamy white chocolate fudge with its delightful bursts of tart cranberries and zesty orange! It’s sure to impress everyone who tries it!
Can I Use Different Types of Chocolate?
Yes! While white chocolate is traditional for this recipe, you can substitute with dark chocolate for a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that it will change the overall sweetness and flavor profile of the fudge.
What If I Can’t Find Dried Cranberries?
No worries! You can substitute dried cranberries with dried cherries, raisins, or even chopped nuts for some added texture and flavor. If using fresh cranberries, make sure to dry them slightly to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Make This Fudge Vegan?
Absolutely! You can use vegan white chocolate chips and coconut sweetened condensed milk instead. Ensure that the butter is also replaced with a vegan alternative. The flavor will still be delicious!
How to Prevent Fudge From Being Too Sticky?
Ensure that you melt the chocolate gently instead of overheating it. Stir constantly to achieve a smooth mix. If your fudge is too sticky, you might just need to let it chill longer in the fridge until it’s set properly.