Christmas Butter Fudge
A rich, creamy Christmas butter fudge with candied cherries and nuts, perfect for holiday gatherings and gifting with its sweet, buttery, and festive flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place sugar, milk, butter, and salt in a large saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, until sugar is dissolved.
- Cook over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until mixture forms a soft ball when dropped into cold water (236°F on candy thermometer).
- Remove from heat and place the pan in cold water.
- Do not stir or beat until cooled to lukewarm.
- Add vanilla and beat until thick and creamy.
- Quickly fold in nuts and candied cherries.
- Pour into a greased 8-inch square pan.
- Let stand at room temperature until firm.
- Cut into squares and decorate with candied fruit.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the sugar is fully dissolved before boiling. If you prefer a different flavor, consider substituting the vanilla with almond extract, which pairs well with the nuts. You can also use dried fruits like raisins or cranberries instead of candied cherries for a unique twist. When folding in the cherries and nuts, be quick to maintain the fudge's creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the fudge into small squares and serve it as a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea. It also makes a delightful addition to holiday gift baskets, paired with other sweets like the Cherry Buttermilk Cake. For a festive presentation, decorate with additional candied fruit or nuts on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you live in a warmer climate, refrigerate to prevent melting. To enjoy it later, simply cut into squares and serve directly, as the fudge retains its flavor and texture without the need for reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Butter Fudge contains roughly 214 calories, with 2g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value).
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 alternative sweeteners in this recipe?
While traditional sugar is essential for the texture of fudge, you can experiment with sugar substitutes like agave syrup or honey. However, be aware that this may alter the final texture and cooking times, so adjustments will be necessary.
What can I do if my fudge doesn't set properly?
If your fudge remains too soft, it might not have been cooked long enough. You can try reheating the mixture gently and bringing it back to the soft ball stage before cooling it again. Ensure to use a candy thermometer for the best results.
Can I add different flavors or mix-ins to this fudge?
Absolutely! This fudge is versatile. Consider adding peppermint extract for a holiday twist or mix in crushed cookies for added texture. Just be sure to adjust the amounts to maintain the right consistency of the fudge.
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).