Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares

Name: Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup chopped canned cherries, drained; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Oven Stories

I absolutely adore these Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares! Each bite brings together the rich taste of chocolate and the tartness of cherries, creating a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Preparing these squares is a delightful process that fills my kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. I love how the ingredients meld together to create a creamy, decadent treat that's perfect for any occasion, be it a casual get-together or a special celebration. Trust me, these fudge squares will quickly become a favorite in your home!

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:40:12.006Z

Making Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares is one of my favorite weekend activities. I often experiment with different types of chocolate and cherries to find the perfect balance. Recently, I tried adding a splash of cherry liqueur, and it transformed the fudge into something extraordinary, enhancing the flavor profile beautifully. The method of melting the chocolate gently ensures a silky smooth texture that is utterly satisfying.

What I really love about this recipe is how versatile it is! You can adjust the sweetness by choosing dark or milk chocolate, depending on your preference. Each square is a little piece of heaven that is just the right combination of sweet and tart. Don’t hesitate to add your own twist; it’s all about creating a personal touch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent combination of rich chocolate and tart cherry.
Beautifully creamy texture that satisfies sweet cravings.
An ideal treat for parties or a grab-and-go dessert.

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of semi-sweet chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk serves as the foundation for the fudge's rich and creamy base. Semi-sweet chocolate adds depth and a balanced sweetness, while the condensed milk plays a crucial role in achieving that luscious texture. If you're looking for a less sweet option, consider swapping the semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate, which will enhance the contrast with the cherries without overwhelming the palate.

Chopped canned cherries are essential for delivering bursts of tartness that cut through the richness of the chocolate. Make sure to thoroughly drain the cherries to avoid excess liquid in your fudge; this helps maintain the firm texture. If fresh cherries are in season, feel free to substitute them, but keep in mind you might need to adjust the sweetness slightly, possibly by adding a touch more condensed milk.

Mastering the Fudge Technique

When melting the chocolate, utilize low heat and a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent scorching. Stir continuously to ensure even melting and to achieve a glossy finish. If your mixture appears grainy or separated, you can add a few drops of water and stir vigorously until it becomes smooth again. This step is critical as it sets the base for a silky fudge that will hold its shape once cooled.

After mixing in the cherries and nuts, be careful not to overmix, as this could cause the chocolate to seize. Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish while it’s still warm, which makes spreading easier. Use a spatula to level the top, ensuring an even set across the entire surface, which helps maintain uniform square shapes when cutting later.

Ingredients

For the Fudge

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped canned cherries, drained
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Baking Dish

Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing the paper to hang over the edges for easy removal later.

Melt the Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Heat over low, stirring constantly until everything is melted and smooth.

Mix in Flavorings

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, chopped cherries, and nuts (if using). Mix well to ensure even distribution of ingredients.

Pour and Set

Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.

Cut and Serve

Once set, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and enjoy your delicious Chocolate Cherry Fudge!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top before refrigerating to enhance the flavors even more.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For best texture, allow them to come to room temperature before serving. If you prefer, you can freeze the squares for longer storage—just make sure they’re tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe container. They should last up to three months in the freezer. To serve after freezing, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

When making ahead for an event, consider preparing the fudge a day or two in advance. This not only enhances the flavors as they meld together but also gives you more time to focus on other dishes. Just remember to cut the squares after they’ve set, so they’re convenient to serve when guests arrive.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For an impressive presentation, dust the top of the fudge with cocoa powder or shredded coconut before cutting it into squares. You can also serve the fudge alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, which pairs beautifully with the chocolate and cherry flavors. Adding a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce can elevate the indulgence level, making it perfect for a dessert buffet.

If you're feeling adventurous, try incorporating different flavor elements such as a hint of almond extract or a dash of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty contrast. You can also swap the cherries for diced dried fruits like apricots or cranberries to create variations of this recipe, adjusting the sweetness and richness accordingly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?

Yes, fresh cherries can be used, but make sure to pit and chop them first.

→ How do I store the fudge?

Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

→ Can I make this fudge dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute dairy chocolate with dairy-free chocolate chips and use coconut cream instead of condensed milk.

→ What can I do if my fudge is too soft?

If your fudge is too soft, it may not have set long enough. Refrigerate it for a few more hours to firm up.