Description
This Cranberry Orange Fudge recipe combines creamy white chocolate with the bright flavors of orange zest and juice, complemented by tart dried cranberries and crunchy pistachios. Perfect as a festive treat, this no-bake fudge is easy to prepare and delivers a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Fudge Base
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Flavorings
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional, for added crunch and color)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to ensure easy removal of the fudge once set.
- Melt the Base: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter until completely melted and slightly bubbling but not browned.
- Add White Chocolate: Add the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk to the melted butter, stirring constantly to combine and melt the white chocolate completely into a smooth mixture.
- Add Flavor: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, orange zest, and fresh orange juice, mixing thoroughly to integrate all flavors evenly.
- Add Cranberries and Pistachios: Fold in the chopped dried cranberries and pistachios gently, reserving a small handful of pistachios and cranberries to sprinkle on top if desired.
- Set the Fudge: Pour the fudge mixture evenly into the prepared pan, spreading it smoothly with a spatula. Sprinkle the reserved cranberries and pistachios on the surface for garnish.
- Chill: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 3 hours or until it is firm and set enough to cut.
- Slice and Serve: Once firm, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper, slice into 16 equal pieces, and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use fresh orange juice and zest for the best citrus flavor; bottled juice may alter the taste.
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pistachios or substitute with sunflower seeds.
- To enhance the orange flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of orange liqueur if desired.
- Ensure to chop cranberries finely to distribute flavor evenly throughout the fudge.
