This cranberry orange fudge is a fun mix of tart cranberries and zesty orange flavors. It’s sweet, creamy, and perfect for sharing during the holidays—or eating all by yourself!
I love how easy it is to make this fudge. Just melt, mix, and chill! Plus, it looks super festive, making it ideal for gift giving or a tasty treat at home. Who can say no to fudge, right? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Chocolate: This is the base of your fudge. I prefer using high-quality chocolate chips for a smoother texture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using dairy-free white chocolate chips instead. They melt similar to regular ones!
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This adds creaminess and sweetness. If you prefer a less sweet version, you can make your own using milk and sugar or use evaporated milk with a bit more sugar to taste.
Dried Cranberries: These provide tartness. You could switch them for dried cherries or raisins if cranberries aren’t available. Just remember that raisins are sweeter, so adjust the sweetness if you need to.
Orange Zest: Fresh zest adds a lovely citrus aroma. If you don’t have fresh oranges, a bit of bottled orange extract can substitute, but use just a few drops as it’s stronger.
How Do I Make Sure My Fudge Sets Firmly?
Getting that perfect fudge texture can be tricky, but it’s all about the cooling process. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to melt the ingredients on low heat to prevent burning.
- Once mixed, spread the fudge evenly in the pan; this helps it to set uniformly.
- Patience is key! Let it chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours to firm up completely.
- If you cut the fudge too soon, it may crumble; wait until it’s fully set and cold.
These steps will help you get that smooth, firm fudge you’re aiming for! Enjoy making it as much as you enjoy eating it! 🧡
Cranberry Orange Fudge
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate (about 18 ounces)
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 large orange (about 1 tablespoon)
- 1 1/2 cups dried cranberries
- Optional: a pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful fudge requires about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 4 hours to chill in the fridge until set. A little bit of patience is necessary, but the tasty reward is totally worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan:
Start by lining an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or foil. Make sure to leave some overhang on the edges for easy removal later. Lightly grease the liner with a little butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Melt Ingredients Together:
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir continuously to ensure everything melts smoothly together. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on it so the chocolate doesn’t burn!
3. Mix in Flavor:
Once the mixture is melted and smooth, remove the pan from heat. Now, stir in the vanilla extract and the orange zest. The aroma will be amazing!
4. Add Cranberries:
Gently fold in the dried cranberries, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the fudge mixture.
5. Pour into Pan:
Carefully pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly and smooth the top. Take a moment to admire your creation so far!
6. Garnish (Optional):
If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle a bit of extra orange zest or some finely chopped crystallized ginger on top. It adds a nice touch of color and flavor!
7. Chill the Fudge:
Cover the pan with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours until it’s completely firm.
8. Cut and Enjoy:
Once the fudge is set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment overhang and place it on a cutting board. Cut into 1-inch squares. Try not to eat all the pieces at once—they’re that good!
9. Storage:
Store any leftovers (if there are any!) in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This fudge can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious cranberry orange fudge!
This creamy white chocolate fudge, paired with the tartness of cranberries and the bright citrus flavor of orange zest, makes for a festive and delightful treat!
Can I Use Milk Chocolate Instead of White Chocolate?
Yes, you can definitely use milk chocolate, but keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile. The fudge will be sweeter and less tangy. If you use milk chocolate, consider reducing the amount of sweetened condensed milk or adding a little more salt to balance the sweetness.
How Can I Store This Fudge for Longer?
To store the fudge for longer, you can freeze it! Cut it into squares and wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before enjoying!
Can I Make This Fudge Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free white chocolate chips and substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a dairy-free version or homemade coconut milk-based version. Just ensure all the ingredients are labeled as dairy-free.
What Other Mix-Ins Work Well With This Fudge?
In addition to dried cranberries, you could mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch, or try adding a bit of dried orange peel or cherries for a twist. Just be sure not to overload it with too many mix-ins to maintain the fudge’s creamy texture!
