Name: Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Fudge Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 25
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 3 tbsp white sugar; 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder; ½ cup butter; 14 oz sweetened condensed milk; 2 cups Chocolate Chips; 1½ cups confectioners' sugar; 3 tbsp butter; 3 tbsp maraschino cherry juice; 1 oz semisweet chocolate

Indulge in the rich, velvety goodness of maraschino cherry chocolate fudge. This delightful treat combines the sweetness of maraschino cherry juice with the deep flavors of chocolate. Perfect for any occasion, these fudge squares are sure to impress your friends and family.

Photos of Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Some of the ingredients in this recipe, like maraschino cherry juice and sweetened condensed milk, may not be common pantry staples. Make sure to pick up a jar of maraschino cherries and a can of sweetened condensed milk during your supermarket trip.

Ingredients for Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Fudge

all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the batter.

white sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust.

unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives a rich chocolate flavor.

butter: Adds moisture and richness to both the crust and frosting.

sweetened condensed milk: Sweetens and thickens the chocolate filling.

chocolate chips: Melts into the filling, adding deep chocolate flavor.

confectioners' sugar: Sweetens the cherry frosting.

maraschino cherry juice: Adds a fruity, cherry flavor to the frosting.

semisweet chocolate: Melted and drizzled on top for an extra touch of chocolate.

One reader, Kerstin Martins says:

This maraschino cherry chocolate fudge recipe is a delightful treat! The combination of rich chocolate and sweet cherry flavor is simply irresistible. The fudge is smooth and creamy, with a perfect balance of sweetness. It's a hit at every gathering and so easy to make!

Kerstin Martins

Techniques Required for Making Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Fudge

Yes.

How to cut in butter: Use a pastry cutter or two knives to incorporate the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. How to melt chocolate: Place chocolate in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, or use a double boiler method by placing a metal bowl over simmering water and stirring occasionally until smooth.

How To Make Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Fudge

Maraschino cherry-flavored chocolate fudge recipe with chocolate swirls frosting for not only a sinfully good dessert but also a fine looking one.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 55 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupall-purpose flour
3tbspwhite sugar
1tbspunsweetened cocoa powder
½cupbutter
14ozsweetened condensed milk,1 can
2cupschocolate chips
1½cupsconfectioners’ sugar
3tbspbutter
3tbspmaraschino cherry juice
1ozsemisweet chocolate,chopped, 1 square

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.

Batter:

In a medium bowl, stir together flour, white sugar, and cocoa powder.
Cut in butter until texture is a bit grainy. Pat into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Bake for 10 minutes in the preheated oven. Remove and set aside.
Combine sweetened condensed milk and chocolate chips.
Cook mixture in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir frequently until chips are melted and the mixture is smooth.
Pour the mixture over the baked crust.
Bake for another 15 minutes. Remove and cool in the pan over a wire rack.

Frosting:

In a medium bowl, mix together the confectioners’ sugar, butter, and cherry juice.
Spread over the cooled filling in the pan.
Melt semi sweet chocolate in a small glass dish in the microwave, or in a metal bowl over a pan of simmering water.
Stir occasionally until smooth.
Place in a plastic bag or piping bag.
Cut the tip to 1/8 inch, and drizzle the chocolate over the bars in a back and forth motion to make stripes.
Cool completely before cutting into squares

Nutrition

Calories: 244.71kcal
Fat: 11.05g
Saturated Fat: 6.90g
Trans Fat: 0.24g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.83g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.28g
Carbohydrates: 34.52g
Fiber: 0.77g
Sugar: 29.29g
Protein: 2.77g
Cholesterol: 21.51mg
Sodium: 33.63mg
Calcium: 68.98mg
Potassium: 73.97mg
Iron: 0.56mg
Vitamin A: 54.46µg
Vitamin C: 1.02mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Your Fudge

When melting chocolate chips with sweetened condensed milk, use a double boiler to ensure even heating and prevent scorching. If you don't have a double boiler, place a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, making sure the bowl doesn't touch the water. Stir frequently to achieve a smooth, glossy mixture.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Fudge Recipe

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and organize all ingredients before starting to save time during the cooking process.

Use a food processor: Quickly combine flour, sugar, and butter for the crust using a food processor instead of cutting in by hand.

Microwave chocolate: Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave to speed up the process instead of using a saucepan.

Pre-make frosting: Prepare the frosting while the fudge is baking to streamline the final assembly.

Line the pan: Use parchment paper to line the baking pan for easier removal and cutting of the fudge.

Substitute Ingredients For Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Fudge Recipe

all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a slightly nutty flavor and more fiber, but it may make the fudge denser.
white sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a caramel-like flavor.
unsweetened cocoa powder - Substitute with carob powder: Carob powder is naturally sweet and caffeine-free, making it a good alternative for those avoiding caffeine.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar texture and adds a subtle coconut flavor.
sweetened condensed milk - Substitute with coconut condensed milk: Coconut condensed milk is dairy-free and adds a hint of coconut flavor.
chocolate chips - Substitute with carob chips: Carob chips are naturally sweet and caffeine-free, making them a good alternative for those avoiding caffeine.
confectioners' sugar - Substitute with powdered coconut sugar: Powdered coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a caramel-like flavor.
maraschino cherry juice - Substitute with pomegranate juice: Pomegranate juice provides a similar color and a tart flavor that complements chocolate.
semisweet chocolate - Substitute with dark chocolate: Dark chocolate has a richer flavor and less sugar, making it a healthier option.

Presenting Your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Fudge

Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the maraschino cherry chocolate fudge into elegant, bite-sized squares to ensure each piece is a perfect, indulgent morsel.
Use a pristine white plate: Present the fudge on a pristine white plate to make the rich colors of the chocolate and maraschino cherry pop.
Add a cherry on top: Place a single maraschino cherry on top of each fudge square to add a touch of color and hint at the flavor within.
Drizzle artistically: Use the melted semisweet chocolate to create delicate, artistic drizzles on the plate around the fudge squares, enhancing visual appeal.
Garnish with mint leaves: Add a small mint leaf next to each piece of fudge to introduce a fresh, contrasting color and a hint of aromatic freshness.
Use a dusting of cocoa powder: Lightly dust the plate with unsweetened cocoa powder to add a sophisticated touch and enhance the chocolate theme.
Incorporate texture: Place a few chocolate chips or chocolate shavings around the fudge for added texture and visual interest.
Serve with a side of whipped cream: Add a small dollop of whipped cream on the side of the plate to complement the richness of the fudge and add a creamy element.
Highlight the layers: Ensure the layers of baked crust, chocolate filling, and cherry frosting are clearly visible to showcase the complexity of the dessert.
Finish with a touch of gold: Add a tiny edible gold leaf accent on each piece of fudge to elevate the presentation to a three-Michelin-star level.

Essential Tools for Making Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Fudge

Oven: Used to bake the crust and the fudge mixture.
8-inch square baking pan: The pan where the crust and fudge mixture will be baked.
Medium bowl: Used for mixing the dry ingredients for the crust and the frosting.
Saucepan: Used to melt the chocolate chips with the sweetened condensed milk.
Wire rack: Used to cool the baked crust and fudge mixture.
Microwave: Optionally used to melt the semisweet chocolate.
Metal bowl: Alternatively used to melt the semisweet chocolate over simmering water.
Plastic bag: Used as a makeshift piping bag for drizzling melted chocolate.
Piping bag: Used for drizzling melted chocolate in a controlled manner.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities of ingredients.
Spatula: Used to spread the frosting evenly over the cooled filling.
Knife: Used to cut the cooled fudge into squares.
Cutting board: Used as a surface to cut the fudge into squares.

Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Fudge

Allow the fudge to cool completely before cutting into squares. This will ensure clean cuts and prevent the fudge from crumbling.
Store the maraschino cherry chocolate fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Separate layers with wax paper or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
For longer storage, freeze the fudge for up to 2-3 months:
- Wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Label the container with the date and contents for easy reference.
- To thaw, remove the fudge from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 2-3 hours or until it reaches the desired consistency.
- If condensation forms on the surface of the fudge after thawing, gently blot it with a paper towel before serving.
To maintain the best texture and flavor, avoid storing the fudge in the refrigerator, as it can become too hard and lose its creamy texture.
If gifting or sharing the maraschino cherry chocolate fudge, consider wrapping individual pieces in wax paper or cellophane and tying them with a decorative ribbon for a festive presentation.

How To Reheat Leftover Fudge

To reheat leftover maraschino cherry chocolate fudge, start by removing it from the refrigerator and allowing it to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This will help the fudge soften slightly and make it easier to reheat without drying it out or causing it to become grainy.
One of the best methods for reheating fudge is to use a microwave. Place the desired amount of fudge on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 10-second intervals, checking and stirring between each interval. This gentle heating process will help the fudge maintain its smooth texture and prevent it from overheating or burning.
Another option is to use a double boiler. Fill a saucepan with a few inches of water and bring it to a simmer. Place a heatproof bowl containing the fudge on top of the saucepan, ensuring that the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water. Stir the fudge occasionally as it melts and becomes smooth. This method provides a more controlled heating process and reduces the risk of scorching the chocolate.
If you prefer a softer, slightly melted texture, you can reheat the fudge in a warm oven. Preheat your oven to its lowest setting (usually around 150°F or 65°C) and place the fudge on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat the fudge for 5-10 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency. Keep a close eye on the fudge to prevent it from melting completely or burning.
Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to reheat the fudge gently and slowly to maintain its texture and flavor. Avoid overheating, as this can cause the chocolate to seize or become grainy, and the sugar to crystallize, resulting in an unpleasant texture.
Once reheated, allow the fudge to cool slightly before serving, as it will be quite hot. If you find that the reheated fudge is a bit too soft for your liking, you can place it in the refrigerator for a few minutes to help it set up again.

Interesting Trivia About Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Fudge

A fun fact about this maraschino cherry chocolate fudge recipe is that the maraschino cherry juice in the frosting not only adds a delightful pink color but also infuses a unique, sweet-tart flavor that perfectly complements the rich chocolate layers.

Is Making Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Fudge at Home Cost-Effective?

When analyzing the cost-effectiveness of this maraschino cherry chocolate fudge recipe, it’s essential to consider the ingredients. The sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and maraschino cherry juice can be slightly pricey, but the rest are common pantry staples. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $10-$12 USD. Given the indulgent nature of this dessert, it offers a luxurious treat without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 7/10.

Is This Decadent Treat Healthy or Unhealthy?

This maraschino cherry chocolate fudge recipe is undoubtedly delicious, but it's not the healthiest treat. The main ingredients - all-purpose flour, white sugar, butter, sweetened condensed milk, and chocolate chips - are all high in calories, sugar, and fat. While enjoying a small piece occasionally is fine, overindulging can lead to weight gain and other health issues.

However, there are ways to make this recipe a bit healthier without sacrificing too much flavor:

Replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients
Reduce the amount of sugar by using unsweetened chocolate chips and replacing some of the white sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Use low-fat sweetened condensed milk to cut down on the fat content
Incorporate more cherries into the recipe for added fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants
Cut the fudge into smaller pieces to encourage portion control

By making these small adjustments, you can still enjoy this delightful treat while being mindful of your health. Remember, moderation is key when it comes to indulging in sweet treats like this maraschino cherry chocolate fudge.

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Fudge Recipe

This maraschino cherry chocolate fudge recipe offers a delightful blend of rich chocolate and sweet cherry flavors. The layered approach, with a baked crust, smooth chocolate filling, and cherry-infused frosting, creates a sophisticated texture and taste experience. The final touch of drizzled semisweet chocolate adds a visually appealing finish. However, the recipe could benefit from a pinch of salt in the crust to enhance the overall flavor profile. Overall, it's a well-structured and indulgent treat perfect for special occasions.

Enhance Your Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Fudge Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the delightful crunch of roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. The slight bitterness of the sprouts contrasts beautifully with the rich sweetness of the maraschino cherry chocolate fudge, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart: Picture a flaky, buttery tart crust filled with creamy goat cheese and sweet, golden caramelized onions. This savory delight pairs exquisitely with the decadent chocolate fudge, offering a sophisticated blend of sweet and savory that elevates your dessert experience to new heights.

Spiced Butternut Squash Soup: Envision a velvety butternut squash soup infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The comforting, earthy flavors of the soup provide a perfect counterpoint to the rich, indulgent maraschino cherry chocolate fudge, making for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus: Think of tender asparagus spears wrapped in savory prosciutto, roasted to perfection. The salty, smoky prosciutto enhances the natural sweetness of the asparagus, creating a delightful contrast to the luscious chocolate fudge. This elegant side dish adds a touch of sophistication to your dessert spread.

Citrus and Avocado Salad: Visualize a refreshing salad featuring juicy citrus segments and creamy avocado, tossed with a light vinaigrette. The bright, zesty flavors of the citrus and the smooth, buttery avocado provide a refreshing palate cleanser that complements the rich, sweet notes of the maraschino cherry chocolate fudge.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love This Fudge

Chocolate Cherry Brownies: Indulge in these rich and fudgy brownies that combine the deep flavors of chocolate with the sweet and tangy burst of cherries. Perfect for any dessert lover!

Cherry Almond Chocolate Bark: This delightful treat features a blend of dark chocolate, crunchy almonds, and sweet dried cherries. It's an easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for gifting or snacking.

Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake: A decadent cheesecake with a creamy chocolate base, swirled with a luscious cherry topping. This dessert is sure to impress at any gathering.

Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies: These cookies are a delightful twist on the classic chocolate chip cookies, with the addition of sweet and chewy dried cherries. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack.

Cherry Chocolate Truffles: Luxurious and smooth chocolate truffles with a surprise cherry center. These bite-sized desserts are perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat.

Appetizers and Main Dishes That Go Well with Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Fudge

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these Stuffed Mushrooms. Imagine plump mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The filling is then topped with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, creating a golden, crispy crust. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful. Serve them warm to enjoy the full experience of the melty, creamy center contrasting with the crunchy topping.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with this classic Bruschetta. Start with slices of toasted baguette, brushed with olive oil and a hint of garlic. Top each slice with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of the crunchy bread and the fresh, tangy topping creates a delightful contrast. This appetizer is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect starter for any occasion.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and a medley of fresh herbs. The chicken is then grilled to perfection, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers. These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and a blend of spices. Topped with melted cheese and baked to perfection, each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Serve these stuffed peppers with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to round out this hearty and comforting main course.

Why trust this Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Fudge Recipe:

This maraschino cherry chocolate fudge recipe is a delightful blend of rich chocolate and sweet maraschino cherries, creating a perfect balance of flavors. The use of sweetened condensed milk ensures a creamy texture, while the cherry juice adds a unique twist. With clear instructions and simple ingredients, this recipe is easy to follow, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. Trust this recipe for its well-tested steps and the delicious results that will impress your family and friends.

Share your thoughts on this delectable Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Fudge recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

How do I store the maraschino cherry chocolate fudge?

I usually store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want it to last longer, you can keep it in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Can I use a different type of chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chips if you prefer. Just keep in mind that it might change the overall flavor a bit.

What if I don't have maraschino cherry juice?

No worries! You can substitute it with another fruit juice, like cherry or raspberry juice, or even a bit of water with a splash of almond extract for a different twist.

Can I make this recipe without the frosting?

Yes, you can skip the frosting if you prefer a simpler fudge. The base and chocolate layer are delicious on their own, but the frosting does add a nice touch.

How do I know when the fudge is fully cooled and ready to cut?

I usually wait until the pan feels completely cool to the touch. If you're in a hurry, you can pop it in the fridge for about an hour to speed up the cooling process.