Are you ready to make a sweet impression with a simple treat? This Cranberry Orange Fudge combines creamy white chocolate with the zing of orange and the tartness of cranberries. You can whip it up in just a few easy steps! Trust me, this delightful fudge is perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get started on this tasty adventure!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Festive Flavor: The combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange creates a delightful taste that’s perfect for the holiday season.
- Easy to Make: This fudge comes together in just 15 minutes with minimal effort, making it a quick and satisfying treat.
- Customizable: Add nuts for crunch or experiment with different dried fruits to make it your own!
- Great for Gifting: Packaged nicely, this fudge makes a lovely homemade gift for friends and family.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Fudge
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped
Flavor Enhancers
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Add-ins
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
This recipe brings together simple yet rich flavors. The main ingredients create a sweet base. The white chocolate chips melt down nicely with sweetened condensed milk. This blend gives the fudge its creamy texture. The dried cranberries add a chewy bite.
For flavor, we use orange zest and juice. These ingredients brighten the fudge and add a citrus note. The vanilla extract rounds out the taste. A pinch of salt balances the sweetness.
If you want some extra crunch, chopped nuts work great. Walnuts or pecans add a nice texture. They also provide a nutty flavor that pairs well with the fudge.
Overall, these ingredients make a delightful treat. You can enjoy it at home or share it with friends.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Baking Dish
- Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. The paper helps with easy removal later. Make sure to leave some overhang.
Melting the Chocolate Mixture
- Combine 2 cups of white chocolate chips and 1 can of sweetened condensed milk in a medium saucepan over low heat. Stir continuously until the chocolate melts. The mix should be smooth and creamy.
Mixing in the Ingredients
- Remove the saucepan from heat. Mix in 1 cup of chopped dried cranberries, the zest of 1 orange, 1 tablespoon of orange juice, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Adding Optional Nuts
- If you want more crunch, gently stir in ¼ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans. This step is optional but adds a nice texture.
Chilling the Fudge
- Pour the fudge mixture into the lined baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours until the fudge is firm.
Cutting and Serving
- Once set, lift the fudge out of the dish using the parchment paper. Cut it into squares or rectangles. Now, it’s ready to serve! Enjoy this sweet treat with family and friends.
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Smooth Fudge
To melt chocolate without burning, keep the heat low. Use a medium saucepan and stir often. The chocolate chips need to melt slowly. If they heat too fast, they can seize up. I like to use a double boiler, too. Boil water in a pot and set a bowl on top. This method is gentle and helps keep the chocolate smooth.
How to Avoid Fudge Sticking
Parchment paper is key to easy fudge removal. Line your baking dish, but let the paper hang over the edges. This overhang helps lift the fudge out later. When you pour the fudge in, smooth it out. Press it gently into the corners. This way, the fudge will not stick to the sides.
Customizing Your Fudge
You can add fun mix-ins to make your fudge unique. Consider using dried cherries, apricots, or even nuts. For a twist, try adding a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg. If you like a crunch, mix in some crushed cookies or pretzels. The options are endless, so let your taste guide you!
Pro Tips
- Use Quality Chocolate: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality white chocolate chips. They melt better and provide a richer taste.
- Chill Thoroughly: Allow the fudge to chill for the full 2-3 hours to ensure it sets properly. This will make cutting it into squares much easier.
- Mix-In Variations: Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins such as dried fruits or flavored nuts for a unique twist on the traditional fudge recipe.
- Cutting Tips: For cleaner cuts, warm your knife slightly before slicing the fudge. This helps prevent sticking and uneven edges.
Variations
Seasonal Additions
You can easily change the flavor of your fudge for the holidays. Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg gives it a warm and cozy twist. Just a pinch can add depth to the sweet orange and tart cranberries. I recommend starting with 1/4 teaspoon of either spice. Taste the mixture as you go to find your perfect blend. This small step can make your fudge feel festive and special.
Alternative Sweeteners
If you want to explore different tastes, try using dark chocolate instead of white chocolate. Dark chocolate adds a rich flavor that pairs well with cranberries. You can also use sugar-free chocolate chips. This keeps your fudge sweet but lowers the sugar. Look for options that melt well and mix smoothly. Remember, different sweeteners can change the texture slightly, so adjust your method as needed.
Dairy-Free Adaptations
If you follow a dairy-free diet, you can still enjoy this fudge. Substitute the sweetened condensed milk with coconut milk. It gives a creamy texture and a hint of coconut flavor. You can also use vegan chocolate chips to keep it dairy-free. This way, you can enjoy the same great taste without the dairy. Make sure to check labels for any hidden dairy ingredients.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Fudge
To keep your cranberry orange fudge fresh, store it in an airtight container. This prevents moisture and odors from getting in. Line the container with parchment paper for easy removal. If you don’t have an airtight container, wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap. This will help keep it soft and tasty.
Shelf Life
When stored in the refrigerator, your fudge will last up to two weeks. Make sure to check for any signs of spoilage. If it starts to look dry or hard, it’s best to discard it. Enjoying it sooner will give you the best flavor and texture.
Freezing Fudge
Freezing your fudge is a great way to keep it longer. Cut it into squares before freezing. Place each piece in plastic wrap, then put them in a freezer bag. This keeps them safe from freezer burn. When you want to eat some, just take it out and let it thaw in the fridge. It will taste just as good as fresh!
FAQs
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
You can use fresh cranberries, but the fudge will change. Fresh cranberries have more moisture. This might make the fudge too soft. Dried cranberries add sweetness and chewiness. They also blend well with the chocolate. If you choose fresh, chop them small and reduce the liquid in the recipe.
How can I make this fudge dairy-free?
To make dairy-free fudge, swap the white chocolate. Use dairy-free chocolate chips instead. Look for brands that offer good taste. You can also use coconut milk in place of sweetened condensed milk. This keeps the fudge creamy and rich. Always check labels for hidden dairy.
What’s the best way to cut fudge?
Cutting fudge can be tricky. To get neat squares, use a sharp knife. Warm the knife with hot water first. Wipe it dry before cutting. This helps the knife glide through the fudge. You can also score the fudge lightly before cutting. This gives you a guide for even squares.
Cranberry orange fudge is a fun treat anyone can make. You need simple ingredients like white chocolate, cranberries, and orange zest. Follow easy steps to melt chocolate, mix in flavors, and chill the fudge. Don’t forget tips for smoothness and storage. Feel free to customize with nuts or spices.
Try this recipe to impress friends and family. It’s easy to make and delicious to eat. Sharing sweet treats like this brings joy to everyone! Enjoy your fudge-making adventur
Cranberry Orange Fudge
Ingredients
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
- 1 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
- 1 piece zest of orange
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk over low heat. Stir continuously until the chocolate melts and the mixture is smooth.
- Remove from heat and mix in the chopped dried cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until evenly combined.
- If desired, add the chopped nuts to the mixture for added texture and nutty flavor, stirring gently to incorporate.
- Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours or until the fudge is firm.
- Once set, lift the fudge out of the dish using the parchment paper, and cut it into squares or rectangles.
- Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, if it lasts that long!
