Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Strawberry Fudge offers the perfect combination of sweetness, creaminess, and fruity goodness. The strawberry flavor comes from real strawberry puree or freeze-dried strawberries, making the fudge not only vibrant in color but also packed with natural flavor. The best part? This recipe is simple to make, requiring only a few ingredients, and it doesn’t take much time to prepare. Whether you’re making it for a party or just because, this fudge will be a hit with anyone who loves strawberry-flavored treats.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips (or dark chocolate chips for a richer taste)
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup strawberry puree (or 1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries, powdered)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Strawberry Puree: If using fresh strawberries, blend them into a smooth puree using a blender or food processor. You should have about 1/2 cup of puree. If using freeze-dried strawberries, pulse them in a blender or food processor until finely powdered, and add a little water if needed to make a paste-like consistency.
- Melt the White Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Add the Strawberry Flavor: Stir in the strawberry puree (or powdered freeze-dried strawberries), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt (if using). Mix until fully combined and smooth.
- Set the Fudge: Line a small square baking dish (8×8 inches or smaller) with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Pour the fudge mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2-3 hours, or until firm. You can also place it in the freezer for quicker setting, about 1 hour.
- Cut and Serve: Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut it into small squares. Serve and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 16-20 squares (depending on size)
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Set time: 2-3 hours (or 1 hour in the freezer)
- Total time: 3-4 hours
Variations
- Add mix-ins: You can add crushed nuts, like almonds or pistachios, or even mini marshmallows to the fudge mixture for extra texture and flavor.
- Use different chocolate: For a different twist, try dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips instead of white chocolate. Dark chocolate pairs beautifully with strawberries and adds richness.
- Make it more fruity: You can add a few tablespoons of strawberry jam or strawberry extract for an extra burst of strawberry flavor.
- Top with fresh fruit: Garnish the fudge with a few fresh sliced strawberries on top before refrigerating to add a touch of freshness and color.
Storage/Reheating
Store the strawberry fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly or place it in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn. Let it thaw in the fridge before serving.
FAQs
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried strawberries?
Yes! Fresh strawberry puree works perfectly in this recipe. If using fresh strawberries, make sure to blend them into a smooth puree and drain out excess liquid for the best consistency.
Can I make this fudge without sweetened condensed milk?
Sweetened condensed milk is key for making the fudge creamy and sweet, but if you need a substitute, you can use heavy cream and powdered sugar. However, the texture may vary slightly.
Can I make this fudge with milk chocolate?
Yes, milk chocolate will give the fudge a creamier, sweeter flavor, but keep in mind that it will slightly alter the strawberry-to-chocolate ratio. You can adjust the amount of strawberry puree for the right balance.
How can I make this fudge firmer?
If you prefer a firmer fudge, try reducing the amount of sweetened condensed milk slightly, or add a little more powdered freeze-dried strawberry to absorb excess moisture.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make the fudge dairy-free, you can use dairy-free chocolate chips (such as dark chocolate) and substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a coconut milk-based condensed milk alternative or coconut cream.
Can I make this fudge in advance?
Yes, this fudge can be made up to a week in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy it whenever you need a sweet treat.
Can I add food coloring to the fudge?
Yes, if you want a more vibrant pink color, you can add a few drops of red food coloring to the fudge mixture before setting it. Just be careful not to overdo it, as the color can quickly become too intense.
Can I make this fudge without vanilla extract?
Yes, the vanilla extract adds flavor, but it’s optional. You can omit it, or substitute it with other extracts like almond or strawberry for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
Strawberry Fudge is a fun and delicious way to enjoy the sweet, tangy flavor of strawberries in a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth dessert. It’s easy to make, beautifully pink, and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet cravings, this strawberry fudge will impress with its vibrant color and irresistible flavor.
Print
Strawberry Fudge
- Total Time: 3-4 hours
- Yield: 16-20 squares
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Strawberry Fudge is a sweet and creamy treat that combines the rich texture of traditional fudge with the vibrant, fruity flavor of fresh strawberries. A perfect, easy-to-make dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips (or dark chocolate chips for a richer taste)
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup strawberry puree (or 1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries, powdered)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Strawberry Puree: If using fresh strawberries, blend them into a smooth puree using a blender or food processor. If using freeze-dried strawberries, pulse them into a powder, adding a little water if necessary to make a paste.
- Melt the White Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted.
- Add the Strawberry Flavor: Stir in the strawberry puree (or powdered freeze-dried strawberries), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth.
- Set the Fudge: Line a small square baking dish (8×8 inches or smaller) with parchment paper. Pour the fudge mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or until firm. You can also freeze it for about 1 hour to set quicker.
- Cut and Serve: Once set, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper and cut into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Add crushed nuts like almonds or pistachios, or mini marshmallows for extra texture.
- Swap the white chocolate for dark or milk chocolate for a different flavor profile.
- For a more intense strawberry flavor, add strawberry jam or strawberry extract.
- Top with fresh sliced strawberries before refrigerating for added color and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Refrigeration
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
