Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry juice
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
Special equipment needed:
- 8x8 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Double boiler or microwave
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a double boiler or microwave, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
3. Spread the melted chocolate mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
4. In the same double boiler or microwave, melt the white chocolate chips and remaining sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
5. Add the chopped cherries, cherry juice, almond extract, and salt to the white chocolate mixture and stir until well combined.
6. Spread the cherry mixture evenly over the chocolate layer in the pan.
7. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder until smooth.
8. Drop spoonfuls of the butter mixture on top of the cherry layer and swirl with a knife.
9. Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours or until firm.
10. Once firm, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into small squares.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Temperature:
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Serving size:
Makes about 16-20 pieces of fudge.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 220
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 70mg
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 25g
Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Instead of maraschino cherries, you can use fresh cherries or dried cherries.
- If you don't have cherry juice, you can use cranberry juice or pomegranate juice.
- You can use vanilla extract instead of almond extract.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, to the fudge mixture for extra crunch.
- Use different flavored extracts, such as peppermint or orange, for a different flavor profile.
- Add a layer of crushed graham crackers or Oreo cookies between the chocolate and cherry layers for a fun twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to chop the cherries finely so they distribute evenly throughout the fudge.
- Use a toothpick or knife to swirl the butter mixture on top of the cherry layer for a pretty design.
- Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Storage instructions:
Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
The fudge is best served chilled, but you can let it come to room temperature before serving if you prefer.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the fudge on a platter or in a candy dish for a festive presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish the fudge with extra chopped cherries or chocolate shavings for a pretty touch.
Pairings:
Serve the fudge with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a delicious treat.
Suggested side dishes:
This fudge is a dessert on its own, but you can serve it with fresh fruit or a cheese plate for a more substantial dessert spread.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the fudge is too soft, refrigerate it for longer until it firms up.
- If the fudge is too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and any utensils or equipment before preparing the fudge to prevent contamination.
Food history:
Fudge is a classic American candy that dates back to the late 1800s. It was originally made with sugar, butter, and milk, but over the years, many variations have been created, including this chocolate-covered cherry fudge.
Flavor profiles:
This fudge is rich and chocolatey with a sweet cherry flavor and a hint of almond.
Serving suggestions:
Serve this fudge as a dessert or as a sweet treat for a party or holiday gathering.
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Taste: Rich, Creamy, Sweet, Chocolatey, Cherry, Cherry-Flavored