There's nothing quite like the sweet, creamy decadence of homemade Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge. This festive treat combines the smooth, buttery flavor of white chocolate with the tartness of dried cranberries, creating a perfect holiday bite-sized dessert. It's a joy to make and even more delightful to share with loved ones.
I first whipped up a batch of this fudge when searching for a quick and easy homemade gift idea. What started as a small experiment turned into an annual tradition. Now, it's a staple on our dessert table every holiday season, and I know you'll love it too. Let’s dive in and discover why this recipe is a must-try!
Why You'll Love This Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge
Get ready to fall head over heels for this dreamy Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge. Not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also a breeze to make, even for beginners in the kitchen.
First, it’s an incredibly simple recipe. With just five ingredients and no candy thermometer required, you can whip this up in under 15 minutes. The hardest part? Waiting for it to set in the fridge!
The balance of flavors is a standout feature. The rich sweetness of white chocolate pairs perfectly with the tangy bite of dried cranberries, creating a dessert that feels indulgent but never overly sweet.
This fudge is also a fantastic make-ahead treat. You can prepare it days in advance, making it ideal for holiday parties, gifting, or just enjoying during a busy season.
Lastly, its festive appearance makes it a showstopper. The snowy white chocolate speckled with ruby-red cranberries looks stunning on any dessert tray. Whether you’re hosting or gifting, this fudge is sure to impress.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient works together to create a smooth, luscious texture and bold flavor.
White Chocolate Chips form the creamy base of this fudge. Look for high-quality brands with real cocoa butter for the best flavor and texture. You can also use chopped white chocolate bars if you prefer.
Sweetened Condensed Milk is the secret to the fudge’s smooth, melt-in-your-mouth consistency. Be sure to use sweetened condensed milk, not evaporated milk, as the latter won’t provide the same results.
Dried Cranberries add a burst of tartness that cuts through the sweetness of the white chocolate. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can swap them out for dried cherries or a mix of both for added variety.
Vanilla Extract enhances the overall flavor, adding a warm, subtle note that ties everything together beautifully. Use pure vanilla extract for the best results.
Unsalted Butter contributes richness and helps ensure the fudge sets properly. Just a small amount goes a long way in making this treat irresistibly smooth.
Special equipment? Just a small saucepan and an 8x8-inch pan lined with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze.
How To Make This Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge

Making this Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge is easier than you might think. Let’s break it down step by step for foolproof results.
Start by lining an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. This simple step will save you frustration later!
In a medium saucepan, combine white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Place the pan over low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. Be patient here—low and slow ensures your fudge won’t scorch.
Once the mixture is melted, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Immediately fold in the dried cranberries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the fudge.
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Add a few extra cranberries on top if you want a pretty garnish.
Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2-3 hours or until fully set. Once firm, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper overhang and cut it into bite-sized squares.
This entire process, excluding the chilling time, takes just 15 minutes. Perfect for those days when you need a quick dessert in a pinch!
Storage Options
Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge stores beautifully, making it a great option for make-ahead desserts or gifts.
Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Be sure to keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain its texture.
For longer storage, place the fudge in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two weeks, but be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
If you want to store it even longer, you can freeze it. Wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will stay fresh for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. With a few tweaks, you can make it your own!
For a nutty crunch, stir in ½ cup of chopped pistachios or almonds alongside the cranberries. The green pistachios look especially festive for the holidays.
If you’re a fan of citrus, add the zest of an orange to the melted mixture before pouring it into the pan. The bright, zesty flavor pairs wonderfully with the cranberries.
Swap out the dried cranberries for dried cherries, apricots, or even raisins for a different take on this classic recipe.
Love a touch of spice? Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the fudge mixture for a warm, cozy flavor.
Feeling adventurous? Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the set fudge before cutting it into squares for a dramatic, layered look.
No matter which variation you choose, this Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge is a canvas for your creativity. Enjoy experimenting and creating your signature version!
PrintCranberry White Chocolate Fudge Recipe
Enjoy this delightful Cranberry White Chocolate Fudge recipe, featuring rich white chocolate and tangy dried cranberries for the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 16 squares 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, combine white chocolate chips, condensed milk, and salt over low heat. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and dried cranberries.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours or until firm.
- Slice into squares and serve.
Notes
- Use good-quality white chocolate for the best flavor.
- Add nuts for a crunchy texture, like chopped almonds or pecans.
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 40mg
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