Introduction

Chocolate Covered Cherry Fudge is a delightful treat combining creamy chocolate with juicy cherries for a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. This easy-to-make fudge is rich, smooth, and ideal for sharing or gifting.

A round chocolate cake with a dark brown base sits in a white bowl lined with parchment paper that folds over the edges. The cake is cut into eight slices, with a white glaze drizzled unevenly on top. Bright red cherry halves are scattered across the top and inside the cake slices. Around the bowl, a few loose cherries and cherry halves are placed on a textured dark gray surface. Nearby, an old knife with a worn wooden handle rests with traces of cherry juice on its blade. To the side, a bowl of whole red cherries sits on a white marbled surface with a striped cloth next to it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

7 ounces Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk, plus extra for drizzling
9 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/3 cup chopped canned cherries (Morello cherries recommended)
1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Line a 6-inch round cake pan or a similar small pan with parchment paper to prepare for the fudge.
Step 2: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, warm the sweetened condensed milk, stirring occasionally until small bubbles appear on the edges. Avoid boiling.
Step 3: Place the chocolate chips in a small bowl, ready for melting.
Step 4: Pour the hot sweetened condensed milk over the chocolate chips and let it sit for 1 minute. Stir gently to combine, then let the mixture rest for about 30 more seconds.
Step 5: Meanwhile, slice the cherries in half and toss them in a small bowl with the almond extract if using, to enhance their flavor.
Step 6: Ensure the fudge mixture is smooth and fully melted.
Step 7: Pour half of the fudge into the lined pan. Press three-quarters of the cherries onto this layer and drizzle about 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk on top.
Step 8: Pour the remaining fudge mixture over the cherries, smoothing the top evenly.
Step 9: Decorate the surface with the remaining cherries.
Step 10: Allow the fudge to set at room temperature for at least one hour, or place it in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up faster.
Step 11: Before serving, drizzle additional sweetened condensed milk over the fudge. Slice into 8 wedges and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh cherry preserves if you prefer a juicier texture, or swap semi-sweet chips for dark chocolate for a more intense flavor.
For a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or walnuts on top before the fudge sets.
If you prefer a stronger almond flavor, increase the almond extract slightly, but avoid overpowering the cherry taste.

Storage

Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. To serve chilled fudge, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing to make cutting easier.

How to Serve

The image shows six thick, triangular slices of chocolate cake arranged in a circle on brown parchment paper. Each slice has a rich, dense dark brown chocolate base with glossy, smooth texture. On top, there are a few halved red cherries placed evenly on each slice. White cream or glaze is lightly drizzled over the top, creating a contrast with the dark chocolate. In the background, there are some whole cherries scattered, along with chocolate chips. A rustic knife with a worn wooden handle lies nearby on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?

Fresh cherries can be used, but they should be pitted and chopped. Because fresh cherries contain more moisture, the fudge may take longer to set or be less firm.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

This recipe relies on sweetened condensed milk and semi-sweet chocolate, which typically contain dairy. For a vegan version, try using sweetened condensed coconut milk and dairy-free chocolate chips, but note the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Chocolate Covered Cherry Fudge Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 500 reviews

This decadent Chocolate Covered Cherry Fudge combines creamy sweetened condensed milk with rich semi-sweet chocolate and tart canned cherries for a luscious treat. A hint of almond extract enhances the cherry flavor, making this fudge a perfect indulgence for cherry and chocolate lovers alike. Easy to prepare and requiring no baking, this fudge sets quickly, making it an ideal homemade gift or dessert.

Author: Lena
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Fudge Base

7 ounces Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk, plus extra for drizzling
9 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

Cherry Layer

1/3 cup chopped canned Morello cherries

Instructions

Prepare the Pan: Line a 6” round cake pan or a similar small pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy removal of the fudge.
Heat Sweetened Condensed Milk: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, warm the sweetened condensed milk. Stir occasionally until small bubbles form around the edges—do not let it boil to avoid scorching.
Prepare Chocolate Chips: Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a small bowl ready to receive the warm sweetened condensed milk.
Combine Chocolate and Milk: Pour the hot sweetened condensed milk over the chocolate chips. Let it sit undisturbed for 1 minute, then gently stir to combine. Allow the mixture to rest for another 30 seconds to ensure all the chocolate melts completely and becomes smooth.
Prepare Cherries: Slice the canned cherries in half and toss them in a small bowl with the almond extract if using, to enhance their flavor.
Confirm Fudge Consistency: By now, the chocolate mixture should be homogeneous and fully melted, forming a smooth fudge base.
First Layer: Pour half of the fudge mixture into the parchment-lined pan. Evenly press three-quarters of the cherries onto this layer. Drizzle approximately 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk over the cherries for added sweetness and moisture.
Top Layer: Pour the remaining fudge mixture over the cherries, spreading it smoothly to cover the fruit completely.
Decorate: Arrange the remaining cherries decoratively on top of the fudge for an attractive presentation.
Set the Fudge: Allow the fudge to set at room temperature for at least one hour, or speed up the process by chilling it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes until firm.
Serve: Before serving, drizzle extra sweetened condensed milk over the fudge for added richness. Slice the fudge into 8 wedges and enjoy.

Notes

Use high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for the best flavor and smooth texture.
If you prefer a stronger almond flavor, you can increase almond extract slightly but be cautious as it is potent.
Setting the fudge in the refrigerator is recommended if your kitchen is warm to ensure it firms up nicely.
This fudge is best eaten within 3-4 days if refrigerated to maintain freshness.
Feel free to substitute Morello cherries with other canned cherries or maraschino cherries according to preference.

Keywords: Chocolate fudge, cherry fudge, no bake fudge, chocolate dessert, cherry chocolate fudge, easy fudge, quick dessert