Description
Make Cranberry Pistachio Fudge with white chocolate, dried cranberries, and pistachios. A creamy, festive treat perfect for the holidays or gifting!
Ingredients
Ingredients List
For Cranberry Pistachio Fudge:
- White Chocolate Chips or Bars: 3 cups (about 18 oz)
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: 1 can (14 oz)
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Dried Cranberries: ½ cup
- Shelled Pistachios: ½ cup, coarsely chopped
Optional Additions:
- Sea Salt: A pinch for a salty-sweet flavor balance.
- Orange Zest: 1 teaspoon for a citrusy holiday twist.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Pan
- Line the Pan
- Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends over the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment if needed.
Melting the Base
- Combine Chocolate and Condensed Milk
- In a medium saucepan, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Add Vanilla Extract
- Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
Adding the Mix-Ins
- Incorporate Cranberries and Pistachios
- Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly fold in the dried cranberries and chopped pistachios using a rubber spatula. Distribute evenly throughout the mixture.
Setting the Fudge
- Pour into the Pan
- Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with the spatula. Use the back of a spoon to smooth the top if necessary.
- Chill Until Set
- Place the pan in the refrigerator and let the fudge set for at least 2–3 hours, or until firm to the touch.
Cutting and Serving
- Slice into Squares
- Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place on a cutting board and cut into 1-inch squares with a sharp knife or bench scraper.
- Serve or Store
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
Tips for Serving, Storing, and Reheating
Serving Tips
- Serve at Room Temperature
- Allow the fudge to come to room temperature before serving for the creamiest texture and best flavor. This ensures the chocolate and mix-ins are soft and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
- Add Garnishes
- Enhance presentation with additional garnishes like a sprinkle of chopped pistachios, extra cranberries, or a drizzle of melted chocolate. For an extra festive touch, consider dusting the fudge with edible gold glitter.
- Pair with Drinks
- Serve alongside coffee, hot cocoa, or spiced tea for a cozy treat. For a more adult pairing, a glass of dessert wine or Baileys Irish Cream complements the fudge beautifully.
- Use for Dessert Platters
- Add the fudge to a dessert platter alongside cookies, truffles, and holiday-themed desserts for a stunning presentation during parties or gatherings.
- Portion for Gifts
- Wrap individual squares in parchment paper or place them in decorative tins to create beautiful edible gifts. Add a festive ribbon for extra charm.