Cherry Nut Fudge
Rich cherry nut fudge combines creamy texture with sweet cherries and crunchy nuts, perfect for sharing during holidays or as a decadent homemade treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring sugar, heavy cream, and a dash of salt to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Add the salt and continue cooking until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage.
- Remove from heat and let stand until almost cold.
- Beat the mixture until thick and creamy.
- Cover with a damp cloth and let stand for 30 minutes.
- Add vanilla, chopped nuts, and cherries; work in with hands.
- Press the mixture into a shallow, waxed paper-lined pan. Let it set and cool before cutting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure your sugar dissolves completely before boiling. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, consider using toasted nuts or swapping for pecans or walnuts. Adjust the sweetness by experimenting with dark chocolate or adding a hint of almond extract. To enhance the cherry flavor, use dried cherries or cherry extract in place of fresh ones.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the fudge into bite-sized squares and serve as a delightful treat at gatherings or alongside coffee. It pairs beautifully with Frosted Apple-Raisin Pie for dessert. For a more indulgent option, drizzle with melted chocolate or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Consider adding a touch of sea salt on top for a sweet and savory contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, refrigerate it, where it can last up to two weeks. If you want to freeze it, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Allow thawing at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Nut Fudge contains roughly 234 calories, with 4g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use low-fat cream instead of heavy cream?
While low-fat cream can be used, it may result in a less creamy texture and richness. Heavy cream is essential for achieving that perfect fudgy consistency. If you're looking to reduce calories, consider using a combination of heavy cream and a lower-fat milk for a compromise.
What can I substitute for cherries if I don't have any?
If cherries aren't available, you can use other dried fruits like cranberries or raisins, or even a mix of both for added texture. For fresh alternatives, diced strawberries or raspberries can provide a nice twist, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
How do I know when the fudge has reached the soft ball stage?
The soft ball stage is reached when a small amount of the boiling mixture dropped into cold water forms a soft ball that flattens when removed. This can be tested by using a candy thermometer, aiming for a temperature of about 235°F to 240°F. A candy thermometer ensures precise results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).