Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares

Name: Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup chopped cherries (fresh or canned, drained); ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional); ¼ teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love these Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares! Every bite is filled with rich chocolate flavor and bursts of sweet cherries that make my taste buds sing. This recipe is so easy to prepare, yet the results are incredibly impressive. Whether it’s for a gathering or just a sweet treat at home, I can’t resist sharing this delightful dessert with friends and family. It's a perfect way to indulge in something decadent without too much fuss in the kitchen!

Created by

Bethany Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:52:14.323Z

Making these Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares has become a cherished tradition in my kitchen. The blend of chocolate and cherries not only offers a satisfying treat but also keeps everyone coming back for seconds! I once shared these at a holiday party, and they disappeared in minutes. It's amazing how combining simple ingredients can create such a delightful dessert!

I’ve experimented with a few variations, but the addition of cherries really stands out. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the fudge beautifully, and I always make sure to use high-quality chocolate to enhance the flavor. Trust me, this detail makes all the difference in taste!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with sweet cherries
Creamy fudge texture that melts in your mouth
Quick and easy preparation for any occasion

      

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The success of these Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares heavily relies on the quality of your chocolate. I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate chips with at least 60% cocoa content to achieve a deep, rich flavor that balances well with the sweetness of the cherries. If you prefer a sweeter fudge, you can opt for semi-sweet chocolate chips, but be mindful that it will change the overall taste profile of the final dish.

Fresh cherries add a delightful burst of flavor, but if they are out of season or unavailable, using canned cherries is perfectly fine. Just make sure to drain and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the fudge's consistency. If you’re exploring variations, consider using dried cherries for a chewy texture or swapping in another fruit like raspberries for a unique twist.

Perfecting Your Fudge Texture

Achieving the ideal fudge texture is crucial to the success of this recipe. When melting the chocolate and sweetened condensed milk, keep your heat low to avoid scorching the chocolate. Stir continuously until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy; this indicates that the ingredients are fully combined. If you encounter a grainy texture, your chocolate may have been heated too quickly—simply lowering the heat and stirring can often salvage the mixture.

Once you pour the chocolate mixture into your prepared baking dish, ensure it is level and evenly spread. For an ultra-smooth top, a small offset spatula works wonders. After chilling, if the fudge seems too soft or sticky, it may need additional refrigeration. If you find it too firm to cut easily, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before slicing.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make delicious Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares:

Ingredients

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped cherries (fresh or canned, drained)
½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
¼ teaspoon salt

Make sure to measure everything accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares:

Melt the Chocolate

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the dark chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and salt. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.

Add the Cherries and Nuts

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, chopped cherries, and walnuts if using. Mix until well combined.

Set the Mixture

Pour the chocolate mixture into a greased 8x8-inch square baking dish. Spread evenly and smooth the top with a spatula.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. Once set, cut into squares and serve. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Cherry Fudge!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pro Tips

For an extra special touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top before chilling. It enhances the flavor and adds a nice contrast to the sweetness.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares can be made a few days in advance, making them a fantastic choice for gatherings or as a special treat. Once the squares are fully set, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will maintain their flavor and texture for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them; just be sure to layer parchment paper between each square to prevent sticking.

When ready to serve, simply remove them from the fridge or freezer and allow them to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes. This will enhance their creamy texture and flavor, making each bite even more enjoyable. If you're looking to serve them at a party, consider using mini cupcake liners to make individual portions.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These decadent squares pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which provides a lovely contrast to the rich fudge. Drizzling a bit of homemade cherry sauce or a sprinkle of coarse sea salt can elevate the dessert even further. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of red wine to complement the chocolate and cherry flavors.

For festive occasions, consider topping your fudge squares with whipped cream and fresh fruit, or garnish with a dusting of cocoa powder for an elegant touch. If you’re feeling adventurous, a light sugar glaze can add a beautiful sheen and extra sweetness, taking these treats to an entirely new level.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts with pistachios, almonds, or even leave them out altogether if you prefer.

→ How should I store the fudge squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these fudge squares?

Yes! Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of dark chocolate?

You can use milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate, but keep in mind it may alter the flavor slightly.