Chocolate Covered Cherry Fudge Recipe
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
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
- 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