Did You Know 72% of Chocolate Lovers Crave Fruit-Infused Desserts But Never Make Them at Home?
There’s something magical about the combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries—a pairing so divine it inspired Ben & Jerry’s legendary Cherry Garcia ice cream. Yet most of us only experience this flavor symphony when we buy it, not when we whip it up in our own kitchens. Today, we’re changing that with this Irresistible Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe that brings the iconic taste home in creamy, dreamy squares.
I’ll never forget the first time I tasted Cherry Garcia during a summer road trip through Vermont. The way the dark chocolate chunks played against those bright cherry swirls made me wonder: why do we relegate such joy to store-bought treats? This recipe is my answer—a decadent homage to that memory, but with the satisfying pride of homemade craftsmanship.
Why This Cherry Garcia Fudge Will Become Your New Obsession
What makes this fudge different from all the others? It’s not just the maraschino cherries (though their ruby bursts of flavor are certainly showstoppers). It’s the careful balance of:
- Premium dark chocolate that melts like velvet on your tongue
- Real cherry juice infused right into the fudge base
- Crunchy walnut pieces that mimic the texture of ice cream inclusions
- A sprinkle of flaky sea salt that elevates every bite
This isn’t just fudge—it’s a love letter to one of America’s favorite ice cream flavors, transformed into a make-ahead dessert perfect for gifting, potlucks, or (let’s be honest) secret midnight fridge raids. The best part? You don’t need an ice cream maker or fancy equipment—just a saucepan and about 20 minutes of active time.
Irresistible Cherry Garcia Fudge
A decadent fudge inspired by the classic Cherry Garcia flavor, combining rich chocolate, sweet cherries, and crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium saucepan, combine chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt. Fold in chopped cherries and walnuts until evenly distributed.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. Lift the fudge out using the parchment paper and cut into squares before serving.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste.
Irresistible Cherry Garcia Fudge Recipe
There’s something magical about the combination of rich chocolate, sweet cherries, and crunchy almonds—especially when they come together in a silky, melt-in-your-mouth fudge. Inspired by the beloved Ben & Jerry’s flavor, this Cherry Garcia Fudge is a dreamy treat that’s surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re gifting it to a friend or indulging yourself (no judgment here!), this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips – The foundation of any great fudge. I love using high-quality chocolate for that extra depth of flavor.
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk – This is what gives the fudge its creamy, luscious texture. Don’t substitute with evaporated milk—it won’t work the same!
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter – A little butter adds richness and helps the fudge set just right.
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla enhances the chocolate and balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup dried cherries – Tart and chewy, these little gems mimic the cherry swirl in the original ice cream. If you can’t find dried cherries, maraschino cherries (well-drained and chopped) work in a pinch.
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds – For that signature Cherry Garcia crunch. Toast them lightly for an even deeper nutty flavor.
- Pinch of salt – Just a tiny bit to elevate all the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
First, line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides. This makes it so much easier to lift the fudge out later—trust me, you’ll thank yourself!
Step 2: Melt the Goodness
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir constantly until everything is melted and smooth. This is the kind of patience-pays-off moment—don’t rush it, or the chocolate might seize. Once silky, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla and salt.
Step 3: Fold in the Cherries & Almonds
Gently fold in the dried cherries and chopped almonds, reserving a small handful for sprinkling on top. The batter will be thick, but that’s exactly what we want for that perfect fudge texture.
Step 4: Spread & Decorate
Pour the mixture into your prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Sprinkle the reserved cherries and almonds on top, pressing them lightly into the surface. This not only looks pretty but ensures every bite has a little extra goodness.
Conclusion
There you have it—a decadent, dreamy Cherry Garcia Fudge recipe that’s as fun to make as it is to eat! With its rich chocolate base, bursts of sweet cherries, and crunchy walnut surprises, this treat is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re whipping it up for a special occasion or just indulging in a little self-care, this fudge delivers nostalgia and joy in every bite.
Now it’s your turn! Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out. Did you add a personal twist? Share your creations with us in the comments below or tag us on social media—we’d love to see your fudge masterpieces. And if you’re craving more sweet inspiration, check out our other irresistible dessert recipes for your next baking adventure!
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
While fresh cherries sound tempting, they contain more moisture, which can affect the fudge’s texture. Maraschino cherries are ideal because they’re preserved and less watery. If you’re set on fresh, pat them dry thoroughly and chop them finely.
Why did my fudge turn out grainy?
Graininess usually happens if the sugar wasn’t fully dissolved during cooking or if the mixture was stirred too much while cooling. Be patient—let the sugar melt completely, and resist stirring once it’s off the heat!
How long does this fudge stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, your Cherry Garcia Fudge will stay delicious for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a month (if it lasts that long!).
Can I omit the walnuts for a nut-free version?
Absolutely! The walnuts add crunch, but the fudge will still be delightful without them. For extra texture, try swapping in crushed pretzels or more chopped cherries.
What’s the best way to cut fudge cleanly?
For picture-perfect squares, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water (and wiped dry) between cuts. Chilling the fudge for 10-15 minutes before slicing also helps!