White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Fudge Recipe
This White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Fudge is a rich and creamy treat featuring high-quality white chocolate combined with sweetened condensed milk, studded with tart dried cranberries and toasted pecans. Easy to prepare with no baking required, this fudge sets beautifully in the fridge, making it a perfect festive dessert or gift-worthy sweet snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (for toasting and melting)
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including cooling time)
- Yield: 20-25 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 3 1/2 cups high-quality white chocolate (Ghiradelli bars or white chocolate chips)
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Add-ins
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup toasted pecans, coarsely chopped
Instructions
- Toast Pecans: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 8-10 minutes until they start to smell nutty. Remove and let cool completely before chopping coarsely.
- Prepare Baking Pan: Line an 8×8- or 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or foil, creating a sling over the edges for easy removal. If using foil, lightly butter or spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Melt Chocolate Mixture: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate and sweetened condensed milk. Heat in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each, for a total of 60-90 seconds until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Alternatively, melt over a double boiler set over simmering water, stirring until smooth.
- Mix in Flavorings and Nuts: Stir in the vanilla extract, salt, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans into the melted chocolate mixture until evenly combined.
- Set the Fudge: Immediately pour and spread the fudge mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate for at least 4 hours until firm.
- Cut and Store: Once set, lift the fudge out using the parchment or foil sling and cut into 20-25 squares. Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for freshness.
Notes
- Use high-quality white chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
- Toasting pecans enhances their flavor, but you can skip this step if short on time.
- This fudge keeps well at room temperature for several days but will last longer if refrigerated.
- To avoid grainy texture, melt chocolate gently either by microwave or double boiler without overheating.
- Customizable: swap pecans for walnuts or add other dried fruits for variation.
