Dangerously Dark Rich Cherry Fudge Recipe
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Category: Candy
Servings: Approximately 117 1-inch pieces
Description:
This delectable treat combines the rich depth of dark chocolate with the sweet tang of dried cherries, creating a fudge that’s impossible to resist. Inspired by a mystery series featuring a caterer, this fudge was crafted after much anticipation, filling the gap left by the fictional recipe that never came. Even though chocolate isn’t a regular indulgence for everyone, this fudge offers an incredibly indulgent experience. The cherry and chocolate blend is so irresistible, you’ll want to make it often—but don’t worry, it’s a hit with friends and family who’ll help you avoid eating it all yourself!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Evaporated Milk | 20 oz |
| Marshmallow Cream | 13 oz |
| Sugar | 7 oz |
| Butter | 4 tbsp |
| Dried Cherries | 1 cup (finely chopped) |
| Hazelnuts (toasted) | 1 1/2 cups |
| Chocolate Chips (dark) | 1 1/2 cups |
| Almond Extract | 1 tsp |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1-inch piece)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 71.7 kcal |
| Fat Content | 2.9 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 1.2 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 1.3 mg |
| Sodium Content | 6.3 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 11.9 g |
| Fiber Content | 0.5 g |
| Sugar Content | 10.3 g |
| Protein Content | 0.7 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Cherries: Begin by finely chopping your dried cherries. A food processor works best for achieving a nice, even chop.
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Flavor the Cherries: Once chopped, toss the cherries with a little almond extract to enhance their flavor. Set them aside.
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Weigh the Chocolate Chips: Measure out 1 1/2 cups of dark chocolate chips. Make sure they are the best quality you can find for a smooth melt.
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Cook the Fudge Base: In a 4-quart saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, marshmallow cream, sugar, and butter. Place the saucepan over medium heat.
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Bring to a Boil: Stir the mixture constantly as it heats up. Continue to cook until it reaches a full rolling boil. Once it begins to boil, stir and allow it to boil for 8 minutes. Be sure to maintain constant stirring during this time to avoid scorching.
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Remove from Heat: Once the 8 minutes are up, remove the saucepan from the heat. This is the time to add the chocolate chips.
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Melt the Chocolate: Stir in the chocolate chips, beating until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
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Add Cherries and Nuts: Fold in the almond-flavored cherries and toasted hazelnuts. These ingredients will add a wonderful texture and flavor contrast to the fudge.
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Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×13-inch cake pan with butter. Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
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Let it Set: Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature until it firms up. This may take a few hours, or if you’re in a hurry, you can place it in the refrigerator to speed up the process.
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Cut and Serve: Once the fudge has set, use a sharp knife to cut it into 1-inch squares.
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Let the Flavors Develop: For the best flavor, let the fudge sit for several hours, or even overnight. This allows the cherries’ flavor to permeate the fudge, resulting in a richer, more complex taste.
Storage
Store any leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep it longer, it can be refrigerated for up to two weeks. Just make sure it’s well-covered to prevent it from drying out.
Tips & Tricks
- Nut Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of hazelnuts, feel free to substitute them with other nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for a different texture and flavor.
- Add More Flavor: For extra depth, you can add a pinch of sea salt to the fudge base before boiling, which will balance out the sweetness and enhance the chocolate’s flavor.
- Keep It Dark: The darker the chocolate you use, the richer the fudge will taste. Choose chocolate with a high cocoa percentage for a truly indulgent treat.
This Dangerously Dark Rich Cherry Fudge is a sweet indulgence that brings together the magic of chocolate and cherries in the perfect candy form. The next time you’re craving a rich, decadent treat, look no further than this easy, homemade fudge. Just be careful—its allure is dangerously irresistible!
