Need a quick holiday treat idea? Try this easy cranberry orange fudge recipe made with fresh cranberries and orange zest for a homemade family favorite – Save for later

Easy Cranberry Orange Fudge Recipe for Holiday Treats

Introduction

This Easy Cranberry Orange Fudge Recipe is a perfect treat for the holiday season, combining the sweetness of white chocolate, the tanginess of orange, and the tartness of cranberries. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few everyday ingredients and minimal cooking skills. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its unique flavor and beautiful presentation. The best part? It’s made with ingredients you likely have on hand, making it a budget-friendly and creative way to enjoy the holidays.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of white chocolate, orange zest, and cranberries provides a delightful balance of flavors, and these ingredients are easily found in most grocery stores.
Ease of preparation: This recipe requires no baking and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute holiday gifts or treats.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the fudge looks and tastes like a gourmet treat, making it an excellent choice for holiday parties or gift exchanges.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in this recipe include white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, dried cranberries, orange zest, and a hint of vanilla extract. You can substitute the white chocolate chips with milk chocolate or dark chocolate if you prefer, and use fresh cranberries if they’re in season. The orange zest can be replaced with orange extract, but be sure to use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the other flavors.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by lining an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper. Chop the dried cranberries and set them aside. Zest the orange and squeeze out any excess moisture.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the chocolate has melted and the mixture is smooth.
Step 3: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, orange zest, and chopped cranberries. Let the mixture cool slightly, until it reaches a temperature that’s comfortable to handle.
Step 4: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until set, about 2 hours. Cut into small squares and serve.

Handy Tips

To ensure the fudge sets properly, don’t overheat the chocolate mixture, and let it cool slightly before pouring it into the baking dish.
If using fresh cranberries, be sure to dry them thoroughly before chopping to avoid adding excess moisture to the fudge.
Experiment with different types of chocolate or add-ins, like nuts or coconut flakes, to create unique flavor variations.

Heat Control

When heating the chocolate mixture, it’s essential to use low heat and stir constantly to avoid burning the chocolate. Aim for a temperature between 105°F and 115°F, which will help the chocolate melt smoothly and evenly. If you notice the mixture starting to seize or separate, remove it from the heat immediately and let it cool slightly before proceeding.

Crunch Factor

The dried cranberries add a lovely crunch and texture to the fudge, but if you prefer a smoother texture, you can omit them or substitute with a different type of nut or seed. To enhance the crunch factor, try adding some chopped nuts or toasted coconut flakes to the fudge mixture before pouring it into the baking dish.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

For a more intense orange flavor, use a combination of orange zest and orange extract.
To prevent the fudge from becoming too grainy, avoid over-stirring the mixture, and let it cool slightly before pouring it into the baking dish.
Experiment with different types of milk, like almond milk or soy milk, to create a non-dairy version of the fudge.

Storage Tips

Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Let the fudge come to room temperature before serving, or cut it into small squares and serve chilled.
Wrap the fudge in plastic wrap or wax paper and place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Let it thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This fudge makes a wonderful gift for friends and family, and can be packaged in a variety of creative ways. Try cutting it into small squares and wrapping them in decorative paper or foil, or placing them in a decorative tin or jar. You can also add a ribbon or gift tag with a personalized message to make it an extra-special gift.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
🌟 Substitute the white chocolate with milk chocolate or dark chocolate for a different flavor profile.
🌟 Add some chopped nuts or toasted coconut flakes to the fudge mixture for added texture and flavor.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If the fudge becomes too grainy or separates, try re-melting it and stirring in a little more sweetened condensed milk.
Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have sweetened condensed milk, you can substitute it with a combination of heavy cream and granulated sugar.
Over/undercooking signs: If the fudge is too soft or too hard, adjust the cooking time or temperature accordingly. If it’s too sticky, try adding a little more powdered sugar.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the fudge for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or wax paper and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to make more fudge. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.

Conclusion

This Easy Cranberry Orange Fudge Recipe is a delicious and creative way to enjoy the holidays, and can be made with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its unique flavor and beautiful presentation. So go ahead, get creative, and make this fudge your own by experimenting with different flavors and ingredients. Happy cooking!

Easy Cranberry Orange Fudge Holiday Treats