This White Chocolate Cranberry Fudge is a holiday classic that never disappoints. The creamy richness of white chocolate melts together seamlessly with sweetened condensed milk, creating a smooth base that’s both luscious and light. The addition of tart, chewy dried cranberries brings a perfect contrast to the sweetness, while chopped walnuts add a hint of crunch and earthiness.
Whether you’re preparing treats for a party, packing up edible gifts, or just looking for something sweet to enjoy with a cup of cocoa, this fudge is a go-to recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s an easy, no-bake dessert that stores well and brings smiles with every bite.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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3 cups white chocolate chips
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1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup dried cranberries
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1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Directions:
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Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or foil, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
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In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously until fully melted and smooth.
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Remove from heat and stir in salt and vanilla extract.
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Fold in dried cranberries and walnuts (if using) until evenly distributed.
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Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly with a spatula.
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Let it cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
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Once set, lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into squares.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
Kcal: 145 kcal per piece | Servings: 25 pieces
If you’re looking for a festive dessert that checks all the boxes—creamy, sweet, tart, easy, and eye-catching—White Chocolate Cranberry Fudge is it. This decadent treat combines the silky smooth texture of white chocolate with the tart pop of dried cranberries, creating a perfect balance of flavors that’s both luxurious and bright. Best of all, it requires no oven time and minimal ingredients, making it an ideal go-to for busy holiday baking or a last-minute gift idea.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, creating a dessert table for a family gathering, or just satisfying your sweet tooth during the colder months, this fudge will quickly become one of your favorite seasonal treats. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try and how to make it your own.
A Sweet Story Behind the Fudge
Fudge has a rich history dating back to the late 1800s in the United States. It became popular because it was a quick, inexpensive alternative to more complicated confections like caramels and toffee. Over time, it evolved from a traditional chocolate-based sweet into an ever-growing variety of flavors—peanut butter, maple, cookies and cream, and of course, white chocolate.
White chocolate fudge with cranberries likely found its fame during the holiday season, where cranberries shine in everything from sauces to sweets. The tartness of cranberries cuts through the creamy sweetness of white chocolate, giving this treat a complexity that pleases both kids and adults.
Why This Fudge Recipe is the Best
There are hundreds of fudge recipes out there—but this one stands out for several reasons:
✅ 1. Simple, Foolproof Process
No candy thermometer. No need to babysit boiling sugar. Just melt, mix, pour, and chill. Anyone from a beginner to an experienced baker can whip up a batch in under 15 minutes of active time.
✅ 2. Just a Handful of Ingredients
With only five main ingredients—white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, salt, vanilla extract, and dried cranberries—you likely already have most of what you need in your pantry.
✅ 3. Perfect for Gifting
Cut into squares and wrapped in parchment or nestled in a holiday tin, this fudge makes a thoughtful, homemade gift that travels well and stays fresh for days.
✅ 4. Customizable and Creative
Want to make it nutty? Add walnuts or pistachios. Want to make it festive? Sprinkle crushed peppermint or drizzle with dark chocolate. The base recipe is so versatile, the variations are endless.
✅ 5. Crowd-Pleaser Flavor Profile
The sweetness of white chocolate combined with the slight tang of dried cranberries creates a flavor that’s rich but not overwhelming—making it perfect for dessert trays, cookie swaps, or as a quick pick-me-up with your afternoon tea.
Health Benefits in Moderation
While fudge is obviously a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation, there are a few redeeming qualities that might surprise you:
- Cranberries: These little gems are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C. While dried cranberries do contain added sugar, they still retain many of their nutrients.
- Portion Controlled: Because fudge is rich and sweet, it’s easy to enjoy just one or two small squares and feel satisfied.
- Walnuts (optional): Adding nuts can provide a dose of healthy fats and protein, along with a satisfying crunch.
Remember, indulgence doesn’t have to mean overindulgence. A little treat goes a long way!
Holiday Gift Idea: Homemade Fudge Boxes
Homemade treats are always appreciated during the holidays. This white chocolate cranberry fudge looks professional and feels luxurious. Here’s how to turn it into a beautiful DIY gift:
- Cut the fudge into neat 1- to 1.5-inch squares.
- Line a holiday-themed box or tin with parchment paper.
- Arrange the pieces neatly and sprinkle with a little extra chopped cranberry or white chocolate drizzle for decoration.
- Add a handwritten tag with a personal note or the ingredients (great for friends with allergies).
- Store in the fridge until gifting to keep it fresh and firm.
These also work wonderfully as stocking stuffers, teacher gifts, or festive additions to a cookie exchange.
Fun Variations to Try
You can elevate this recipe with just a few tweaks:
- White Chocolate Cranberry Pistachio Fudge: Add 1/2 cup of shelled pistachios for a pop of green and a salty crunch—very Christmas-y!
- Orange Zest Infusion: Add 1 teaspoon of fresh orange zest to the mixture for a citrus twist that complements the cranberries beautifully.
- Dark Chocolate Swirl: Melt a few tablespoons of dark chocolate and swirl it over the top before chilling. This not only adds visual appeal but also balances the sweetness.
- Coconut Cranberry Fudge: Fold in a 1/4 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical touch.
Serving and Storage Tips
This fudge is best served chilled or at cool room temperature to maintain its firm yet creamy texture. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 3 months—just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe bag or container.
When ready to serve, let the fudge sit out for about 10 minutes at room temperature for the perfect bite.
When to Make It?
This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be made year-round, but it really shines during:
- Christmas and Thanksgiving
- New Year’s Eve dessert trays
- Valentine’s Day gift boxes
- Wedding or baby shower dessert tables
- Brunches, potlucks, and family get-togethers
Final Thoughts
White Chocolate Cranberry Fudge is more than just a sweet treat—it’s a symbol of festive joy, warm memories, and thoughtful gestures. It’s the kind of recipe that can become a family tradition, passed down and made year after year as part of your holiday rituals. With its stunning contrast of creamy white and ruby red, it’s as pretty to look at as it is delicious to eat.
So, gather your ingredients, melt that chocolate, and get ready to enjoy a square (or three) of pure holiday bliss.
Conclusion
White Chocolate Cranberry Fudge is the kind of dessert that brings people together—whether it’s shared during a cozy holiday gathering, tucked into a gift box for someone special, or enjoyed as a quiet indulgence with a cup of tea. Its creamy texture, vibrant cranberry bursts, and effortless preparation make it a standout recipe you’ll want to revisit year after year. Simple enough for beginners but elegant enough to impress, this fudge is a festive favorite you’ll love keeping in your holiday recipe rotation. Try it once, and it just might become a cherished tradition in your kitchen.