Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite sweet treat—strawberry fudge! Seriously, there’s something magical about the combination of fresh strawberries and creamy chocolate that just makes my heart sing. I remember the first time I made it; the vibrant pink color and the sweet aroma filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to share it with friends and family. Each bite is like a little piece of summer, bursting with flavor and happiness. It’s the kind of dessert that brings everyone together, sparking joy and smiles all around. Trust me, once you whip up this strawberry fudge, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds (or thirds). Let’s dive into this deliciously sweet adventure together!
Ingredients
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the most scrumptious strawberry fudge! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries – Pureed to unleash their sweet, fruity goodness.
- 2 cups white chocolate chips – These will melt into a creamy, dreamy base.
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk – This adds that rich sweetness and helps bind everything together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Just a splash for that extra layer of flavor magic!
Trust me, using fresh strawberries makes all the difference, bringing a vibrant taste to your fudge. Happy cooking!
How to Make Strawberry Fudge
Making strawberry fudge is a delightful journey, and I promise it’s easier than you might think! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to creating a sweet treat that’ll impress everyone. Ready? Let’s go!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep your baking dish: Start by lining an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. This will make it super easy to remove the fudge later. Don’t skip this step!
- Heat the mixture: In a saucepan over low heat, combine the strawberry puree with the sweetened condensed milk. Stir gently until it’s warmed through, but don’t bring it to a boil! We want to keep it smooth.
- Melt the chocolate: Add the white chocolate chips to the warm mixture. Keep stirring until they’re completely melted and the mixture is silky and smooth. This part is crucial for that perfect texture!
- Add the vanilla: Once the chocolate is melted, stir in the vanilla extract. This little splash really elevates the flavor!
- Pour and chill: Pour the luscious mixture into your prepared dish, spreading it out evenly. Now, pop it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours until it sets. Patience is key here!
- Cut and serve: Once set, lift the fudge out of the dish using the parchment paper. Cut it into squares and get ready to enjoy!
Remember, if you find the mixture too thick, just give it a gentle stir over low heat until it loosens up a bit. Happy fudge making!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly easy to make—perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks!
- Fresh strawberries give it a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist.
- The creamy texture melts in your mouth, making every bite a delight.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser, ideal for parties, potlucks, or just a sweet treat at home.
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite mix-ins or toppings!
Once you try this strawberry fudge, I guarantee you’ll find yourself making it again and again!
Tips for Success
To make the best strawberry fudge, here are some handy tips that I swear by! First, always use fresh strawberries—frozen ones can alter the texture and flavor. When you’re melting the chocolate, be patient and keep the heat low to avoid scorching it; burnt chocolate is a bummer! If the mixture seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash more sweetened condensed milk to achieve that creamy consistency. And remember, letting it chill in the fridge for the full 2 hours is key to getting that perfect set. Lastly, cut the fudge with a sharp knife for clean edges—no one wants crumbled fudge! Enjoy your sweet creation!
Variations of Strawberry Fudge
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this strawberry fudge! For a tropical twist, try swapping the strawberries for fresh mango or pineapple puree—yum! If you’re a chocolate lover, how about using dark chocolate chips instead of white for a richer flavor? You could even mix in some chopped nuts or toasted coconut for added texture. Feeling festive? Add a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies during the holiday season. The possibilities are endless, and each variation offers a unique taste experience! Enjoy experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your delicious strawberry fudge is super simple! Just keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it’ll stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to make it last longer, you can freeze it! Just wrap the squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for about two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the fudge in the fridge overnight. No need to reheat it—just slice and savor that sweet goodness straight from the fridge!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s chat about the nutritional side of this delightful strawberry fudge! Each square of this sweet treat is estimated to pack around 150 calories, with 9 grams of fat and 2 grams of protein. You’ll also find about 18 grams of carbohydrates, including 12 grams of sugar. It’s a bit indulgent, but hey, it’s a dessert! Remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. So, enjoy your fudge in moderation and relish every sweet bite!
FAQ Section
As you embark on your strawberry fudge-making journey, you might have some questions! Here are a few common ones I hear:
Can I use frozen strawberries?
While you can use frozen strawberries, fresh ones really enhance the flavor and texture of the fudge. Trust me, it’s worth the extra effort!
What if my fudge doesn’t set?
If your fudge isn’t setting, it might need more chilling time. Just pop it back in the fridge for a bit longer. Alternatively, if it’s still too soft, gently reheat the mixture, then pour it back into the dish to set again.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts, crushed cookies, or even some mini marshmallows can add a delightful twist to your strawberry fudge. Just fold them in before chilling!
How long does the fudge last?
When stored in an airtight container in the fridge, your strawberry fudge will stay delicious for up to a week. If you freeze it, it can last about two months!
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! This strawberry fudge recipe is vegetarian-friendly, making it a fantastic choice for all your dessert-loving friends!
For more delicious dessert ideas, check out this strawberry cheesecake recipe or this strawberry shortcake recipe. You’ll find plenty of inspiration to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Print
Strawberry Fudge: 5 Steps to Pure Sweet Bliss
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This strawberry fudge is a sweet treat made with fresh strawberries and creamy chocolate.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, pureed
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a saucepan, combine strawberry puree and sweetened condensed milk over low heat.
- Stir in white chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
- Add vanilla extract and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
- Ensure chocolate is fully melted for a smooth texture.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: strawberry fudge, dessert, sweet treat
