Cranberry Orange Fudge

Hey there, sweet treat lovers! If you’re in the mood for something that’s both tangy and sweet, you’re in for a real treat with this Cranberry Orange Fudge. Think of this fudge as the perfect balance between the bright, zesty notes of orange and the tart, juicy punch of cranberries—all wrapped up in a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth fudge base. Trust me, once you taste this combination, you won’t be able to stop at just one piece.

Why You’ll Love Cranberry Orange Fudge

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re making it for a festive occasion, as a homemade gift, or just to indulge in a little sweetness for yourself, this fudge will quickly become a go-to favorite. Here’s why it’s a total winner:

• Versatile: Perfect for holiday treats or a special weekend indulgence. You can even gift it to friends or serve it at a party, and watch as everyone asks for the recipe.
• Budget-Friendly: Using simple ingredients you likely have at home, this fudge proves that you don’t need to splurge on fancy items to make something extraordinary.
• Quick and Easy: The steps are super simple, making it perfect for those moments when you’re craving something sweet but don’t have a ton of time.
• Customizable: Add a little extra zing with a dash of lemon zest, or a handful of chopped nuts for a bit of crunch. The possibilities are endless!
• Crowd-Pleasing: This fudge is always a hit. The combination of orange and cranberry is fresh, vibrant, and irresistible.

Ingredients

Let’s talk about the ingredients—this fudge is full of flavor, but the best part is how easy it is to put together:

White Chocolate: This creamy, sweet base gives the fudge that smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture. It pairs beautifully with the fruity notes of cranberry and orange.

Cranberries: The tartness of fresh or dried cranberries balances out the sweetness of the fudge. They add little bursts of flavor that keep you coming back for more.

Orange Zest: A little sprinkle of zest is like sunshine in a bite! It brings the most incredible fresh citrus flavor that makes this fudge extra special.

Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is the magic ingredient that gives the fudge its rich, creamy texture. It helps bind everything together while keeping it perfectly sweet.

Butter: Adds that lovely richness, making every bite feel indulgent and luxurious.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this creamy, fruity fudge:

Preheat Your Equipment: Start by lining a square baking dish (or whatever size you prefer) with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Melt the White Chocolate and Butter: In a heatproof bowl, combine the white chocolate and butter. Melt them together in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until everything is silky smooth.

Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk: Stir in the sweetened condensed milk to create a creamy base. This step is what gives the fudge its rich, velvety texture.

Mix in the Orange Zest and Cranberries: Once your fudge base is nice and smooth, fold in the orange zest and cranberries. These ingredients will give your fudge that gorgeous burst of flavor and texture.

Pour and Set: Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to the fridge to set. Give it about 2-3 hours to firm up.

Cut and Serve: Once set, cut the fudge into small squares or rectangles. You’re now ready to enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12 Calories per serving: 160

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Fudge

This fudge is perfect on its own, but here are a few ways to make your serving experience even better:

• Gifting: Wrap up the fudge in cute parchment paper and a ribbon for a delicious homemade gift.
• With Coffee or Tea: Pair a piece with your favorite hot beverage for a sweet pick-me-up.
• On a Dessert Table: Serve alongside other holiday or party treats, adding a vibrant splash of color to your spread.
• With a Dollop of Whipped Cream: If you’re feeling extra indulgent, top it with a little whipped cream or ice cream for a creamy contrast.

Additional Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can make the fudge a day or two ahead of time, which makes it a great option for busy holidays or when you’re prepping for a gathering.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to a month.
• Dried vs. Fresh Cranberries: You can use dried cranberries if fresh ones are out of season, or if you prefer a chewier texture in your fudge.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute white chocolate with milk chocolate?
A1: Absolutely! You can swap in milk chocolate for a slightly sweeter, richer fudge. The flavor will be a bit different, but still delicious.

Q2: Can I use frozen cranberries?
A2: Yes! Just make sure to thaw them and pat them dry before mixing them into the fudge.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store your fudge in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure it’s kept cool, as the texture can soften at room temperature.

Q4: Can I make this fudge ahead of time?
A4: Yes! This fudge is great to make ahead. You can prepare it up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge.

Q5: Can I freeze this fudge?
A5: Yes, you can freeze the fudge for up to a month. Just make sure it’s wrapped tightly to preserve its freshness.

Q6: Can I add nuts to the fudge?
A6: Of course! Walnuts, almonds, or pistachios would add a nice crunch and a bit of extra flavor.

Q7: How long does it take to set?
A7: It usually takes about 2-3 hours for the fudge to set properly in the fridge.

Q8: Can I make this fudge dairy-free?
A8: Yes, you can use dairy-free white chocolate and plant-based butter as substitutes to make it dairy-free.

Q9: How do I cut the fudge neatly?
A9: To cut the fudge into clean pieces, warm your knife under hot water and wipe it dry before slicing. It helps make the cuts cleaner.

Q10: Can I use a different fruit in this fudge?
A10: Definitely! Feel free to experiment with dried cherries, strawberries, or even blueberries for a fun twist.

Conclusion

There you have it! This Cranberry Orange Fudge is a delicious blend of citrus and berry flavors, wrapped in a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s an easy-to-make treat that’ll impress everyone, whether you’re making it for a party or treating yourself to something sweet. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and enjoy the compliments that are sure to come your way. Happy indulging!

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