Cherry Opera Fudge
Cherry Opera Fudge is a rich, creamy treat with chopped nuts and candied cherries, perfect for sharing during holidays or special occasions with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter a 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan and set aside.
- In the top of a double boiler, melt the butter with the milk.
- Stir in the dry frosting mix until smooth.
- Heat over rapidly boiling water for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in chopped nuts and candied cherry halves.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared pan.
- Let stand until the fudge is firm.
- Cut into 1-inch squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother fudge, ensure the butter is fully melted before adding the frosting mix. If you prefer a different flavor, consider substituting the candied cherries with dried cranberries or even chocolate chips. Adding a pinch of sea salt can enhance the flavors beautifully. Make sure to stir well to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the fudge into bite-sized squares and serve them on a decorative platter for parties. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. For a delightful dessert experience, consider serving alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of Low-Fat Sweet Potato Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, refrigerate it, which can help maintain its texture. If you need to reheat, microwave in short bursts, checking frequently to avoid melting completely.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Opera Fudge contains roughly 72 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.
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 a different type of frosting mix?
Yes, you can experiment with different frosting mixes such as chocolate or cream cheese to create unique flavors. Just ensure the proportions remain the same for the best texture.
How can I make this fudge more festive?
To make the fudge more festive, add colorful sprinkles on top before it sets or incorporate seasonal flavors like peppermint extract for the holidays. You could also layer it with different colored fudge for a visual treat.
What nuts work best in this recipe?
Chopped walnuts or pecans are excellent choices as they complement the sweetness of the fudge. Alternatively, you can use almonds for a lighter crunch or even skip the nuts altogether for a nut-free version.
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).