Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares

Name: Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 2 cups dark chocolate chips; 1 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional); Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Modern Baking Recipes

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares for any occasion. The combination of rich chocolate and vibrant, tart cherries creates a dessert that is both indulgent and refreshing. I typically whip these up when I’m craving something sweet but want to keep it simple. They come together quickly and the flavors are always a hit, whether I'm serving them at a family gathering or enjoying them on a quiet evening at home.

Created by

Marlowe Sinclair

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:40:36.617Z

When I first made these Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares, I was looking for a way to use up some fresh cherries. The result exceeded my expectations! The fudgy texture paired with the juicy bursts of cherry is such a delightful surprise. I recommend using high-quality chocolate to really enhance the flavor of the fudge.

What really sets these squares apart is letting them chill completely before cutting. This ensures they hold their shape beautifully. I also love topping them with a sprinkle of sea salt to balance the sweetness. Give it a try; you won’t regret it!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with tart cherries
Decadent fudgy texture that satisfies your sweet tooth
Great for sharing at gatherings or enjoying on your own

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to these Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares lies in the quality of the dark chocolate chips you choose. Opt for a brand with at least 60% cocoa for a rich flavor that perfectly complements the tartness of the cherries. The sweetened condensed milk acts as both a sweetener and a binder, ensuring a smooth, fudgy texture that holds together well once set.

Fresh cherries bring a burst of flavor to this recipe, but if they are out of season, feel free to substitute with frozen cherries—just ensure they are thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture. The optional nuts add crunch, but consider using almonds or walnuts for a complementary flavor that enhances the overall texture.

Perfecting Your Technique

When melting the chocolate, keep the heat low to prevent scorching. Stir continuously; you want the mixture to become glossy and smooth rather than hot, which can lead to lumps. If you find that your chocolate isn’t melting evenly, remove it from heat briefly—taking care not to let it cool too much—and continue stirring until fully melted.

After mixing everything, pouring the fudge into a greased baking dish requires a gentle hand to maintain the even layer. Using a spatula to press the mixture down will help remove air pockets and ensure that the squares have a uniform texture once set.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These fudge squares can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If you plan to keep them longer, consider wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in the freezer, where they will stay fresh for up to three months. Just thaw them in the fridge for a few hours before serving for the best texture.

For a more elaborate presentation, drizzle some melted chocolate over the top or sprinkle a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavors. These fudge squares are perfect for dessert platters or casual gatherings, and they pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious fudge squares:

For the Fudge

2 cups dark chocolate chips
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Pinch of salt

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start making your fudge!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares:

Melt the Chocolate

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

Add Flavors

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and chopped cherries. If using, fold in the chopped nuts for an extra crunch.

Set the Fudge

Pour the mixture into a greased 8x8 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula and smooth out the top.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate the fudge for about 2 hours or until firm. Once set, cut into squares and serve.

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle some melted white chocolate on top before chilling for a beautiful presentation.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your fudge doesn’t set properly after refrigeration, it may be due to an imbalance in the chocolate or sweetened condensed milk ratio. To remedy this, you can try heating the mixture gently in a saucepan and adding more chocolate until it reaches the desired consistency, then re-chill until firm.

Another common issue is if your fudge turns out too grainy, possibly because the chocolate was overheated. To avoid this in the first place, always maintain low heat and keep stirring. If you notice graininess, try blending the mixture again before pouring it into the baking dish.

Scaling Up or Down

This recipe can easily be scaled up for larger gatherings. Simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish, such as a 9x13 inch pan. However, remember that changing the depth may require adjustments in chilling time—monitor for firmness before cutting.

If you’re looking to make a smaller batch, halve the ingredients and use a smaller dish, such as a 4x4 inch square pan. Keep in mind that the refrigeration time may also decrease, so check for firmness after about an hour.

Customizing Your Fudge

Feel free to experiment with various mix-ins or flavored extracts to customize your fudge. For a twist, try adding a tablespoon of almond extract or some orange zest for a refreshing citrus note. Additionally, you can swap out the cherries for other fruits like raspberries or chopped dried cherries for a different texture and flavor profile.

A sprinkle of your favorite spice, such as cinnamon or chili powder, can also elevate the taste profile. Just keep the quantity small to not overpower the chocolate and cherries, but enough to provide a warm undertone.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in the fudge.

→ How should I store the fudge?

Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge for longer freshness.

→ Can I make this fudge vegan?

Yes, you can substitute dairy chocolate and sweetened condensed milk with dairy-free alternatives.

→ What can I use instead of cherries?

Feel free to substitute with other fruits like raspberries, or even mix in some caramel or butterscotch chips.