Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares

Name: Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 2 cups dark chocolate chips; 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 1 cup dried cherries; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Oven Recipes

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares whenever I need a quick yet indulgent treat. Combining the richness of chocolate with the tartness of cherries creates a delightful balance that keeps you coming back for more. Each square is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and just a bit of patience while it sets. Whether it's for a party or just a cozy night in, these squares are a perfect sweet fix. Let's dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to impress!

Created by

Greer Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:21:34.854Z

Making these Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares was a delightful adventure in the kitchen for me. I wanted to create something that combined my love for chocolate with the irresistible burst of cherries. I found that using high-quality dark chocolate made a huge difference in flavor, and mixing in dried cherries provided the perfect chewy contrast. The best part is that once you've melted the chocolate, the rest is just a matter of combining and letting it set.

Another tip I discovered is to line the pan with parchment paper before pouring in the fudge mixture. This makes it much easier to lift out the fudge when it's solidified, ensuring clean-cut squares. The flavor and texture of these squares are genuinely addictive, making them a go-to recipe in my household!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with tart cherries
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

The combination of dark chocolate and dried cherries creates a unique flavor profile that is both rich and tart. Choosing high-quality dark chocolate chips is crucial for achieving a deep chocolate flavor. Look for chips with at least 60% cocoa content for a well-rounded taste that pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the cherries.

Dried cherries add not only sweetness but also a chewy texture that contrasts the creamy fudge. If you can find tart dried cherries, they can enhance the overall flavor balance, providing a delightful pop of acidity that cuts through the richness of the fudge.

Techniques for a Smooth Fudge

When melting the chocolate and sweetened condensed milk, it's important to keep the heat low to avoid scorching. Stirring constantly ensures that the chocolate becomes silky and glossy, rather than gritty. If the mixture feels too thick, you can add a tablespoon of butter for added creaminess and to help achieve a smoother texture.

To prevent any lumps, make sure your saucepan is completely dry before adding the chocolate and milk. Any moisture can cause the chocolate to seize. If you encounter this issue, adding a little more liquid can help smooth it out, but be cautious to avoid affecting the fudge's firmness.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares are cut and set, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This treat ages well, becoming even more flavorful as the cherries hydrate further. If you want to freeze them for longer storage, wrap each square in plastic wrap and place them in a sealed freezer bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.

These squares are perfect for a variety of serving occasions. For an elegant presentation, serve them alongside fresh cherries or topped with a drizzle of white chocolate for contrast. You can also sprinkle a little sea salt on top just before serving to enhance the flavors and add a gourmet touch.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares:

For the Fudge

2 cups dark chocolate chips
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 cup dried cherries
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your fudge squares:

Melt the Chocolate

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

Combine Ingredients

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and dried cherries until evenly distributed.

Set the Fudge

Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper. Pour the chocolate mixture into the dish, smoothing it into an even layer. Place in the refrigerator for 40 minutes or until fully set.

Cut into Squares

Once set, lift the fudge out of the dish using the parchment paper. Cut into 16 squares and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, you can sprinkle some sea salt on top of the fudge before refrigerating. It enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you'd like to make these fudge squares dairy-free, you can substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a coconut milk-based version that's widely available in stores. Just be sure to select a brand that matches the creaminess of traditional condensed milk to maintain the fudge's texture.

For a touch of nutty flavor, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans when you mix in the dried cherries. This will add a delightful crunch that complements the chewy texture of the cherries and the smoothness of the fudge. Just ensure to chop them coarsely for a more enjoyable bite.

Troubleshooting Fudge Issues

If your fudge isn't setting properly after the allotted time in the refrigerator, it could be due to not enough chocolate or too much moisture in the mix. Ensure your measurements are accurate, and if necessary, return the fudge to the saucepan, add a bit of chocolate, and gently reheat before pouring into the dish again.

Another common issue is overcooking the fudge mixture, leading to a granular texture. Should this happen, try adding an additional splash of liquid (like milk or cream) while reheating gently. Stir continuously until smooth, and then re-pour into the prepared dish to set again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but the fudge will be sweeter. Adjust the sweetness to your preference.

→ How long do these fudge squares last?

Stored in an airtight container, they can last up to one week in the refrigerator.

→ Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?

Fresh cherries will add moisture and may affect the setting of the fudge. It's best to stick with dried cherries for this recipe.

→ Is it possible to freeze these fudge squares?

Absolutely! You can freeze the squares for up to three months. Just make sure they are well-wrapped.