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: 2 cups dark chocolate chips; 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz); 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped; 1/4 cup cherry juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Highlighted under: Cozy Recipes

I absolutely love making Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares for special occasions and cozy nights in. The rich, decadent chocolate combined with the tartness of cherries creates a beautiful balance that is hard to resist. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up a batch in no time. I've learned that using high-quality chocolate really makes a difference, resulting in a smooth and rich fudge. These squares are perfect for sharing or keeping all to myself when I need a sweet treat!

Created by

Juniper Hale

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:06:36.713Z

Every time I make Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares, I’m reminded of summer picnics and happy gatherings with friends. The combination of flavors strikes a perfect chord, especially when I add a splash of cherry juice to the mix. It’s a delightful surprise that elevates the fudge to a whole new level. The key is to let the fudge cool completely before cutting; this ensures that you get evenly sliced squares that hold their shape beautifully.

In my kitchen, I’ve found that using dark chocolate not only enhances the taste but also adds an elegant touch. It’s incredible how a few simple tweaks can transform a basic recipe into something truly special. I like to sprinkle a little sea salt on top for a gourmet finish. Each bite is a burst of flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more!

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

      

The Role of Ingredients

The choice of dark chocolate chips is crucial for achieving the rich, deep flavor of these fudge squares. I recommend using quality chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content. This not only ensures a more intense chocolate experience but also results in a smoother texture when melted. Additionally, the type of cherry juice can elevate the taste—using pure cherry juice instead of a blend can enhance the tartness that complements the chocolate beautifully.

Dried cherries are another key ingredient, bringing a chewy texture and bursts of flavor that balance the sweetness of the fudge. If you prefer a more intense cherry flavor, try soaking the chopped dried cherries in a bit of cherry juice for about 30 minutes before adding them to the mixture. This can rehydrate them, making them plumper and juicier while also infusing the fudge with additional cherry flavor.

Setting the Fudge

Properly setting the fudge is essential to achieving the right consistency. Make sure to refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours to ensure it firms up thoroughly. If you're in a hurry, you can place it in the freezer for about 30-45 minutes, but keep an eye on it to avoid freezing it solid. Once set, the fudge should be firm but slightly soft to the touch, indicating that it's ready to be cut into squares.

When using parchment paper, allow some overhang on the sides of the baking dish. This makes it easy to lift out the fudge once it's set, preventing any sticky mess in the pan. If you accidentally leave it in too long and it becomes too hard to cut, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before slicing.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares

Chocolate Cherry Fudge Ingredients

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

Make sure to have everything ready before you start!

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

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

Add Flavors

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the chopped dried cherries, cherry juice, vanilla extract, and sea salt until well combined.

Set the Fudge

Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Pour the fudge mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.

Cut and Serve

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

These squares can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider drizzling melted chocolate on top or adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts for texture.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares are delightful on their own, but serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds an extra layer of indulgence. The creaminess of the ice cream perfectly complements the rich chocolate and tart cherries. You can also create a dessert platter by pairing these squares with other treats like brownies or cookies, making it a perfect choice for gatherings.

For a festive touch, consider drizzling some melted white chocolate over the squares before cutting them. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a sweet contrast to the dark chocolate and tart cherries, creating a beautiful layered taste experience.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To prevent the fudge from sticking together, you can separate layers with parchment paper. If you're preparing for an event, you can make the fudge up to a week in advance, saving you time on the day of the occasion and ensuring it's perfectly set when it comes time to serve.

For longer storage, consider freezing the fudge squares. Individually wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a sealable freezer bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the desired amount in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate for a sweeter taste, but it may alter the richness of the fudge.

→ How do I store the fudge?

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

→ Can I freeze these fudge squares?

Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure they are wrapped well to prevent freezer burn.

→ What can I substitute for dried cherries?

You can substitute dried cranberries, raisins, or any dried fruit you prefer.