Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this white Christmas jewel fudge will become a favorite.
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Only a handful of ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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No candy thermometer required. Just melt and chill.
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Ready in under 15 minutes (plus chilling).
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Creamy and festive. The perfect texture and color combination.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves white chocolate fudge.
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Budget-friendly. White chocolate, condensed milk, and cherries are inexpensive.
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Perfect for holidays, gifts, and gatherings.
Ingredients
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3 (6 oz) packages premium white chocolate chips
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1 (14 oz) can Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk
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1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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1/8 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup chopped green candied cherries
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1/2 cup chopped red candied cherries
Ingredient Notes
White chocolate chips: Use premium white chocolate chips for the best flavor.
Sweetened condensed milk: Use full-fat sweetened condensed milk.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth.
Salt: Balances the sweetness.
Candied cherries: Use red and green candied cherries. Chop them into uniform pieces.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Line an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan with foil, extending the foil over the edges of the pan. Lightly grease the foil with butter or nonstick spray.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
In a heavy saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir constantly and melt until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Do not let it boil.
Step 3: Add the Cherries
Remove the pan from heat immediately. Stir in the chopped red and green candied cherries until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Spread in the Pan
Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
Step 5: Chill
Refrigerate for 2 hours or until firm and completely set.
Step 6: Cut and Serve
Lift the fudge from the pan using the foil edges. Place on a cutting board and peel back the foil. Use a sharp knife to cut into small squares.
Pro Tips for Perfect Fudge
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Low Heat: Keep the heat low and stir constantly to prevent the white chocolate from scorching or seizing.
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Chop Cherries Evenly: Chop the candied cherries into uniform, bite-sized pieces so they distribute evenly throughout the fudge.
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Line with Foil: Do not skip the foil. It makes removing the fudge from the pan much easier and cleaner.
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Cool Completely: Ensure the fudge is fully set before cutting. If it is still soft, give it more time in the refrigerator.
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Clean Cuts: For neat squares, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. For even cleaner cuts, dip the knife in hot water and dry it before each slice.
How to Serve White Christmas Jewel Fudge
This creamy, festive fudge is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
With Coffee: Serve with a cup of coffee or tea.
With Hot Cocoa: Perfect for cold winter days.
With Fresh Berries: Serve with strawberries or raspberries.
As a Gift: Package in decorative bags or tins.
With a Dusting of Powdered Sugar: Add a light dusting for extra elegance.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips instead of white.
Make It with Milk Chocolate: Use milk chocolate chips.
Make It with Nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts.
Make It with Dried Fruit: Add dried cranberries or apricots.
Make It with Sprinkles: Add colorful sprinkles.
Make It with Almond Extract: Use almond extract instead of vanilla.
Make It with Coconut: Add shredded coconut.
Make It Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Make It Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free chocolate and condensed milk.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Do not let the chocolate boil. This can cause it to seize.
Stir constantly while melting. This prevents scorching.
Chill the fudge completely. This ensures clean slices.
Use a sharp knife for cutting. This prevents crumbling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different chocolate?
Yes. Dark or milk chocolate can be used.
Can I use a different fruit?
Yes. Dried cranberries or apricots can be used.
Can I use a different nut?
Yes. Almonds or walnuts can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Can I freeze this fudge?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Why is my fudge grainy?
The chocolate was overheated. Melt slowly over low heat.
Why is my fudge soft?
It did not chill long enough. Chill until firm.
Can I add more flavor?
Yes. Add almond or mint extract.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes. Any 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch pan works.
The Beauty of Festive Fudge
There is something deeply satisfying about a creamy, colorful fudge that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of treat that makes people happy. This white Christmas jewel fudge is a celebration of all those things.
Keep white chocolate, condensed milk, and candied cherries in your pantry and fridge. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 24 to 36 squares