Strawberries and Cream Fudge

Introduction

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about fudge. It brings back memories of holidays, gift-giving, and sneaking little squares of sweetness when no one’s looking. But this Strawberries and Cream Fudge? It’s a whole new level of indulgence. Think creamy white chocolate swirled with sweet, fruity strawberry flavor—a combination so delightful, it’s almost impossible to eat just one piece.

This recipe is perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, baby showers, or even as a holiday gift. But honestly, who needs a reason to make fudge? The simple preparation, eye-catching appearance, and melt-in-your-mouth texture make it a must-try for any dessert enthusiast. Plus, it’s no-bake, meaning it’s approachable even for those who are just starting their kitchen adventures.

So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this delectable treat that’s sure to impress your family, friends, and most importantly, your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are just a few reasons to fall in love with Strawberries and Cream Fudge:

• Easy to Make: No candy thermometer or fancy equipment required!
• Visually Stunning: The swirls of pink and white make this fudge as beautiful as it is delicious.
• Perfectly Balanced: The sweetness of white chocolate pairs perfectly with the subtle tartness of strawberries.
• Versatile: Serve it at parties, gift it to loved ones, or enjoy it as a midweek treat.

One bite and you’ll understand why this fudge is a crowd favorite. It’s sweet but not overly so, with a creamy base and bursts of fruity flavor that make it impossible to resist.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 2-3 hours
• Servings: Makes about 36 small squares

Nutritional Information (per piece):

• Calories: 120
• Fat: 6g
• Carbs: 15g
• Protein: 1g

Ingredients

To make this luscious fudge, you’ll need:

• 2 cups white chocolate chips: The creamy base for the fudge.
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk: Adds sweetness and helps create the smooth texture.
• 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries: For natural strawberry flavor and a vibrant pink color.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness.
• Red or pink food coloring (optional): For a deeper strawberry swirl.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create your perfect Strawberries and Cream Fudge:

1st Step: Prepare Your Pan

• Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Set it aside.

2nd Step: Crush the Freeze-Dried Strawberries

• Place the freeze-dried strawberries in a food processor or blender and pulse until they turn into a fine powder. If you don’t have a food processor, use a plastic bag and a rolling pin to crush them.

3rd Step: Melt the White Chocolate

• In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat, as white chocolate can seize up quickly.

4th Step: Add Flavorings

• Stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and the powdered freeze-dried strawberries. Mix until the strawberries are fully incorporated, giving the mixture a light pink hue.

5th Step: Create the Swirls

• Pour about 3/4 of the mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
• To the remaining mixture, add a few drops of red or pink food coloring (if using) and mix well. Dollop the colored mixture over the base layer and use a toothpick or skewer to create swirls.

6th Step: Chill the Fudge

• Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2-3 hours, or until the fudge is firm.

7th Step: Slice and Serve

• Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut it into small squares using a sharp knife. Wipe the knife between cuts for clean edges.

How to Serve

This Strawberries and Cream Fudge is versatile and perfect for:

• Gift Giving: Wrap individual pieces in wax paper or place them in decorative tins.
• Dessert Tables: Add a pop of color and sweetness to any party spread.
• Afternoon Treats: Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy snack.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your fudge turns out perfectly every time:

1. Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality white chocolate chips and freeze-dried strawberries make a big difference in flavor and texture.
2. Don’t Overheat: When melting the chocolate, use gentle heat to prevent it from becoming grainy.
3. Work Quickly: The fudge mixture sets fairly quickly, so have your pan and tools ready before you start swirling.
4. Chill Thoroughly: Make sure the fudge is completely firm before slicing to get clean, sharp edges.
5. Customize the Flavor: Add a splash of strawberry extract for an extra punch of flavor or top with sprinkles for a fun twist.

Recipe Variations

Want to make this recipe your own? Here are a few fun ideas:

• Chocolate Strawberry Fudge: Add a layer of melted dark chocolate on top of the fudge before chilling.
• Nutty Twist: Mix in chopped pistachios or almonds for added crunch.
• Vegan Option: Use dairy-free white chocolate and sweetened condensed coconut milk.
• Holiday Version: Sprinkle crushed candy canes or edible glitter on top for a festive touch.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: Place cut pieces of fudge in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Special Equipment

You don’t need much to make this recipe, but these tools will come in handy:

• Food Processor: For turning the freeze-dried strawberries into powder.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl: To melt the chocolate and sweetened condensed milk.
• Toothpick or Skewer: For creating the beautiful swirls.

FAQ

Q: Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?
A: Fresh strawberries have too much moisture and can affect the texture of the fudge. Stick to freeze-dried for the best results.

Q: Do I need to add food coloring?
A: No, the powdered strawberries already give a natural pink color. The food coloring is optional for a more vibrant look.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch pan instead of an 8×8-inch one, and adjust the chilling time as needed.

Q: What if my fudge doesn’t set?
A: Make sure you measured the ingredients accurately and chilled the fudge for the full recommended time. If it’s still too soft, place it in the freezer for a quick fix.

Q: Can I use regular chocolate instead of white chocolate?
A: While white chocolate gives this fudge its creamy and sweet base, you can experiment with milk or dark chocolate. However, the strawberry flavor may not stand out as much against the richer chocolate tones.

Q: My fudge turned out grainy. What went wrong?
A: Grainy fudge usually happens when chocolate is overheated or melted too quickly. Always melt chocolate gently, using low heat or short microwave intervals, and stir frequently.

Q: Can I make this fudge without a microwave?
A: Absolutely! Use a double boiler on the stovetop. Place a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Melt the chocolate and condensed milk gently while stirring.

Q: Can I add toppings to the fudge?
A: Yes! Chopped nuts, sprinkles, or a drizzle of melted chocolate can take your fudge to the next level. Add toppings right after swirling before the fudge sets.

Print

Conclusion

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Q: Can I use regular chocolate instead of white chocolate?
A: While white chocolate gives this fudge its creamy and sweet base, you can experiment with milk or dark chocolate. However, the strawberry flavor may not stand out as much against the richer chocolate tones.

Q: My fudge turned out grainy. What went wrong?
A: Grainy fudge usually happens when chocolate is overheated or melted too quickly. Always melt chocolate gently, using low heat or short microwave intervals, and stir frequently.

Q: Can I make this fudge without a microwave?
A: Absolutely! Use a double boiler on the stovetop. Place a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Melt the chocolate and condensed milk gently while stirring.

Q: Can I add toppings to the fudge?
A: Yes! Chopped nuts, sprinkles, or a drizzle of melted chocolate can take your fudge to the next level. Add toppings right after swirling before the fudge sets.

Q: Is this fudge gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as the white chocolate chips and other ingredients you use are certified gluten-free.

Q: Can I make this fudge with fresh strawberries?
A: Unfortunately, fresh strawberries have too much moisture, which can affect the texture. Stick to freeze-dried strawberries for the best results.

Q: How do I cut the fudge into perfect squares?
A: Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut. For extra precision, warm the blade slightly by dipping it in hot water and drying it off before slicing.

Conclusion

There’s something magical about the combination of strawberries and cream, and this fudge captures that magic in every bite. The blend of creamy white chocolate with fruity strawberry swirls makes for a dessert that’s both beautiful and irresistibly delicious.

What’s more, this recipe is a breeze to make, even for beginners, and it’s incredibly versatile. Whether you’re gifting it to loved ones, adding it to a dessert table, or indulging in it yourself, Strawberries and Cream Fudge is bound to become a favorite.

So why wait? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let your kitchen fill with the sweet aroma of strawberries and cream. Once you taste the first creamy, fruity bite, you’ll know it was worth every minute of effort.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear about it! Share your creations in the comments below or tag me on social media. Let’s spread the fudge love together!