Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice
- 1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries
- 1/4 tsp almond extract
- Pink food coloring (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional)
Special Equipment Needed:
- 8x8 inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
- Candy thermometer
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk over low heat. Stir until melted and smooth.
3. Add maraschino cherry juice, chopped cherries, almond extract, and pink food coloring (if using). Stir until well combined.
4. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan and heat the mixture over medium heat until it reaches 235°F.
5. Remove from heat and stir in chopped pistachios (if using).
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Let the fudge cool at room temperature for 2 hours, then refrigerate for an additional hour until firm.
8. Once firm, remove the fudge from the baking dish and cut into small squares.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cooling time: 3 hours
Temperature:
Cooking temperature: Medium heat
Cooling temperature: Room temperature and refrigerated
Serving size:
This recipe makes approximately 16 small squares of fudge.
Nutritional information:
Each serving of fudge (1 square) contains approximately:
- 180 calories
- 8g fat
- 25g carbohydrates
- 3g protein
Substitutions for ingredients:
- White chocolate chips can be substituted with dark chocolate chips or milk chocolate chips.
- Maraschino cherries can be substituted with dried cherries or fresh cherries.
- Almond extract can be substituted with vanilla extract.
Variations:
- Add chopped dried rose petals for a floral twist.
- Use green food coloring instead of pink to create a cherry blossom tree effect.
- Substitute pistachios with chopped almonds or walnuts.
Tips and Tricks:
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the fudge reaches the correct temperature for the perfect texture.
- Be sure to let the fudge cool at room temperature before refrigerating to prevent condensation from forming on the surface.
- Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Storage Instructions:
Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Reheating Instructions:
The fudge can be eaten cold or at room temperature. If you prefer it warm, microwave a square for 10-15 seconds.
Presentation Ideas:
Arrange the fudge squares on a platter and sprinkle with chopped pistachios or dried rose petals for a beautiful presentation.
Garnishes:
Chopped pistachios or dried rose petals can be used as a garnish.
Pairings:
Serve the fudge with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful treat.
Suggested Side Dishes:
No side dishes are needed for this dessert.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the fudge is too soft, it may not have reached the correct temperature. Reheat the mixture and use a candy thermometer to ensure it reaches 235°F.
- If the fudge is too hard, it may have been overcooked. Try reducing the cooking time or heat.
Food Safety Advice:
Be sure to use a clean candy thermometer and avoid cross-contamination with other ingredients.
Food History:
Fudge has been around since the late 1800s and was originally made by accident when a batch of caramel candy was overcooked and turned into a crumbly, sweet treat.
Flavor Profiles:
This fudge has a sweet, creamy flavor with a hint of cherry and almond.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the fudge as a dessert or give it as a gift to friends and family.
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