Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares

Name: Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup tart cherry halves (fresh or frozen); 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional); Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Family Food

I absolutely adore making these Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares! The rich combination of dark chocolate and tart cherries creates a truly decadent treat. Whenever I have a gathering, these squares are always a hit, evoking oohs and ahhs from my guests. With a simple cooking method and just a few key ingredients, I can create a dessert that looks as fabulous as it tastes. The best part? They store well, so I can enjoy them for days to come.

Created by

Dahlia Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:27:36.230Z

When I first experimented with these Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares, I wanted a balance between indulgence and a fruit kick. The tartness of the cherries perfectly complements the rich chocolate flavor, and I can't tell you how satisfying it is to see them vanish at gatherings. The trick lies in letting the fudge cool completely before cutting into squares, which ensures clean edges and a polished presentation.

During my testing, I found the importance of using high-quality chocolate to truly elevate the flavors. I recommend a 70% dark chocolate for a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the cherries. Don't skimp on those cherries; the more, the merrier! They're the stars of the show.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with tart cherries
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a delectable treat

Choosing Your Ingredients

The core of this recipe revolves around dark chocolate. I recommend using high-quality chocolate chips with at least 60% cacao content for a rich, robust flavor. The sweetened condensed milk adds creaminess and sweetness, which balances the tartness of the cherries. If you're looking for a less sweet version, you could try using unsweetened chocolate with a higher ratio of cherries to balance the flavors while maintaining the fudge's texture.

Fresh or frozen tart cherries work beautifully in this recipe. If you use frozen cherries, make sure to thaw them and drain any excess moisture, as too much liquid could affect the fudge's consistency. For those who may be concerned about nuts, those can be easily omitted or replaced with other crunchy alternatives like pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds, offering a different texture without compromising the overall flavor profile.

Perfecting Your Technique

When melting the chocolate and sweetened condensed milk, keep the heat low to avoid scorching the chocolate. Stir constantly until the mixture is glossy and smooth; this usually takes about 5–7 minutes. If you notice any lumps, it may be an indication that the heat is too high. If this happens, remove the pan from the heat and let it cool slightly before stirring vigorously to restore smoothness.

Don't skip refrigeration! Allowing the fudge to chill for at least 3 hours ensures it firms up properly. If it feels too soft after chilling, it's likely the mixture wasn't cooked sufficiently or was disturbed too much before setting. The fudge should be firm enough to hold its shape when cut into squares. When you're ready to lift it out of the dish, use the overhanging parchment paper for easy removal.

Ingredients

For the Fudge

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup tart cherry halves (fresh or frozen)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish

Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some edges to hang over for easy removal later.

Melt the Chocolate

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir frequently until melted and smooth.

Mix in Flavors

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and half of the tart cherry halves. If using walnuts, stir them in now.

Pour and Top

Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining cherry halves, pressing them gently into the fudge.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until fully set. Once set, lift the fudge out of the dish using the parchment paper and cut into squares.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top before chilling or drizzle with white chocolate after cutting into squares.

Storing and Serving

These Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them even longer, they freeze remarkably well; simply wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the fridge before serving.

For serving, consider adding a touch of elegance by dusting the squares with cocoa powder or a sprinkle of sea salt. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also elevates the flavor contrast between the sweet fudge and the tart cherries.

Creative Variations

While the classic combination of dark chocolate and tart cherries is delightful, you can easily customize this recipe. For a twist, try incorporating almond extract instead of vanilla for a more pronounced nutty flavor. You could also experiment with adding a few tablespoons of orange zest to provide a fresh, citrusy note that pairs well with chocolate and cherries.

If you're looking to make the fudge a bit more indulgent, consider adding layers. Pour half of the fudge mixture in the pan, sprinkle a layer of graham cracker crumbs, and then pour the remaining fudge over it. This adds an interesting texture and an extra crunch, creating a unique dessert that's sure to impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chocolate other than dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate or a mix of dark and milk chocolate for a sweeter variation.

→ How long can I store these fudge squares?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze the fudge squares?

Absolutely! These fudge squares can be frozen for up to three months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped.

→ What else can I add to the fudge?

Feel free to experiment with other add-ins like dried cranberries, almonds, or even a splash of orange zest for a unique twist.