There's nothing quite like the festive charm of Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge during the holiday season. This creamy, melt-in-your-mouth treat combines the smooth sweetness of white chocolate with the tangy pop of dried cranberries for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

I first made this recipe as a quick gift idea for friends and family, and it instantly became a tradition. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it also looks stunning on a dessert table with its snowy white base and vibrant red cranberry accents. Let me show you how to make this irresistible fudge your new holiday favorite.

Why You'll Love This Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge

Get ready to add a touch of holiday magic to your dessert lineup. This Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge is more than just a treat – it’s a showstopper that delivers on flavor, looks, and simplicity.

First, it’s ridiculously easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and no candy thermometer needed, you’ll have a batch of creamy fudge ready in no time. Perfect for last-minute holiday prep!

This fudge is also incredibly versatile. It makes a lovely homemade gift, a decadent addition to your dessert spread, or a sweet snack to enjoy with a cup of tea by the fire.

Not to mention, the combination of white chocolate and dried cranberries is a flavor pairing that never fails. The creamy sweetness of the chocolate balances perfectly with the tart chewiness of the cranberries, creating a treat that’s both indulgent and refreshing.

Lastly, this recipe is foolproof. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a kitchen newbie, you’ll find success with this straightforward method. Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this fudge so special.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

White Chocolate: Opt for high-quality white chocolate chips or bars for the creamiest fudge. Lower-quality chocolate may result in a grainy texture.

Sweetened Condensed Milk: This acts as the base for the fudge, creating its rich and velvety texture. Be sure not to confuse it with evaporated milk, which won’t work the same way.

Dried Cranberries: These bring a delightful tartness to balance the sweetness of the fudge. Look for plump, fresh cranberries for the best results.

Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, giving the fudge a warm, sweet aroma.

Butter: Just a small amount helps to create a silky smooth finish and prevents the fudge from sticking to your pan.

Special equipment you’ll need includes a saucepan, a mixing spoon, and an 8x8-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper for easy removal.

How To Make This Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge

Making this fudge is as easy as it gets. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of creamy, decadent fudge ready to enjoy.

Start by preparing your baking dish. Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang on the sides for easy lifting later.

In a medium saucepan, combine 14 ounces of sweetened condensed milk and 2 cups of white chocolate chips. Heat over low-medium heat, stirring constantly until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth. Be patient here – low heat ensures the chocolate doesn’t scorch.

Once melted, remove the pan from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until fully incorporated.

Fold in 1 cup of dried cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The cranberries will add pops of tart flavor and festive color to the fudge.

Pour the mixture into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. For a finishing touch, sprinkle a handful of dried cranberries on top, gently pressing them into the surface.

Allow the fudge to set in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until firm. Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and slice it into squares.

Storage Options

This Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge is as convenient to store as it is to make. Keep it fresh and delicious with these simple storage tips.

Room Temperature: Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Make sure it’s kept in a cool, dry place to maintain its texture.
Refrigerator: If your home tends to be warm, store the fudge in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. It’ll stay firm and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll keep for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature before serving.

When reheating frozen fudge, avoid the microwave. Allow it to thaw naturally to maintain its creamy consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly customizable, allowing you to put your own spin on the classic flavors.

Dark Chocolate Twist: Replace the white chocolate with dark chocolate for a deeper, richer flavor.
Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped pistachios or almonds for a crunchy contrast to the creamy fudge.
Orange Zest: Add a teaspoon of grated orange zest for a citrusy zing that pairs beautifully with the cranberries.
Dried Cherries: Swap the cranberries for dried cherries for a slightly sweeter alternative.
Festive Toppings: Sprinkle crushed candy canes or edible glitter on top for extra holiday flair.

Don’t be afraid to experiment – the possibilities are endless. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or try a new variation, this fudge is sure to impress!