Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares

Name: Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 2 cups pitted cherries, chopped; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Powdered sugar, for dusting; Extra cherries, for garnish

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I absolutely love creating decadent desserts that find the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity. These Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares are a delightful combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries that make them extraordinarily special. The method is straightforward, and the outcome is nothing short of luxurious. I often prepare these for gatherings or even for a cozy evening at home. The fudget texture is simply irresistible, and I guarantee they will please anyone with a sweet tooth.

Created by

Arabelle Finch

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:05:35.197Z

When I first decided to experiment with chocolate and cherries, I was amazed by how well they complement each other. The sweetness of the chocolate combined with the tartness of the cherries creates a flavor experience that's hard to resist. I discovered that using high-quality chocolate makes all the difference in achieving that velvety fudge texture.

One little trick I learned is to allow the fudge to set at room temperature instead of in the fridge. This helps maintain a soft, creamy consistency that melts beautifully in your mouth. Trust me, once you try this method, you'll ditch the fridge step!

        Why You Will Love These Squares
        Decadent chocolate flavor combined with tart cherry bursts
Simple preparation that yields impressive results
Perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying alone

      

Balancing Flavor and Texture

The combination of semisweet chocolate and tart cherries creates a unique flavor profile that keeps each bite interesting. The sweetness from the chocolate is beautifully offset by the natural tartness of the cherries. To ensure an even distribution of flavor, chop the cherries finely. This way, each square has a delightful burst of cherry in every bite, enhancing the overall texture and taste of the fudge.

The cocoa powder adds an extra layer of rich chocolate flavor, intensifying the taste of the fudge. Use high-quality cocoa powder for a more refined flavor; it will truly make a difference in the final outcome. Remember, the smoother and more melted your chocolate chips are, the creamier your fudge will be, so keep stirring until you achieve a glossy finish.

Tips for Perfect Fudge Squares

For a perfectly set fudge, it's important to allow the mixture to cool and set at room temperature before refrigerating. This points to one of the common pitfalls; if you rush this step, you might end up with a gooey texture instead of a firm fudge. After about 20 minutes at room temperature, a gentle touch should leave an imprint but not stick to your fingers, indicating it's ready for chilling.

Cutting the fudge can also be a bit tricky. Use a sharp knife that has been warmed slightly under hot water—this helps create clean cuts without tearing the fudge. For added flair, consider drizzling some melted chocolate over the squares or adding a sprinkle of flaked sea salt before dusting with powdered sugar to enhance the flavor further.

Storage and Variations

These Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks! For longer-term storage, consider freezing them. Simply wrap each square in parchment paper and then place them in a resealable freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave them for 10-15 seconds for a softer texture.

Feeling adventurous? You can easily adapt this recipe by incorporating other mix-ins like nuts or dried fruits, which not only add texture but also nutritional benefits. If cherries aren't in season, feel free to substitute dried cherries or another fruit like raspberries or strawberries, always adjusting the sweetness to suit your preference. Just remember, the key is to maintain the balance of flavors while exploring.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for your Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares:

Main Ingredients

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
2 cups pitted cherries, chopped
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

For Topping

Powdered sugar, for dusting
Extra cherries, for garnish

Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to start making these delicious squares!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Fudge Squares:

Melt the Chocolate

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips, stirring constantly until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the cocoa powder, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt.

Add Cherries

Gently fold in the chopped cherries until they are well coated with the chocolate mixture.

Set the Mixture

Pour the fudge mixture into an 8x8 inch greased baking dish. Spread it evenly and press down lightly. Allow it to set at room temperature for about 20 minutes.

Chill and Cut

Once set, refrigerate for at least an hour. When firm, cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy these squares and share them with your loved ones!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top before serving. It helps elevate the chocolate cherry experience.

Serving Suggestions

These fudge squares are perfect for both casual snacking and elegant gatherings. For a festive touch, consider serving them on a beautiful platter alongside fresh cherries and whipped cream. They can also be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert that impresses without much effort.

To elevate the experience, you could serve these squares with a dessert wine or a rich coffee. The warmth of coffee contrasts beautifully with the chilled fudge, making for a delightful dessert pairing. A sprinkle of crushed nuts or a few chocolate shavings on top could add to the visual appeal, making each serving feel special.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this recipe is chosen for its contribution to the overall flavor and texture of the fudge. Sweetened condensed milk not only binds the ingredients but also adds creaminess that elevates the traditional fudge flavors. Be cautious when selecting the brand; some may have different sweetness levels, which could impact the final product.

The choice of chocolate is also crucial. While semisweet chocolate chips work well, opting for a high-quality bar chopped into chunks can enhance the flavor and texture, giving an artisanal feel to your fudge. If you prefer a lighter option, dark chocolate can be used, but remember to adjust the cocoa powder slightly to balance the sweetness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just ensure they are thawed, pitted, and drained before adding them to the fudge.

→ How do I store the fudge squares?

Store the fudge squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

→ Can I add nuts or other fruits?

Absolutely! Feel free to personalize the recipe by adding chopped nuts or other fruits you enjoy.

→ What can I substitute for sweetened condensed milk?

If you want a dairy-free option, you can use coconut cream as a substitute for sweetened condensed milk.