Dracula’s Dark Cherry Fudge

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Velvety, rich, and hauntingly beautiful, Dracula’s Dark Cherry Fudge is an indulgent dessert that tastes as dramatic as it looks. With luscious whole cherries embedded in a glossy, dark chocolate base, every bite is a sinfully smooth mix of fruity brightness and decadent cocoa. This treat is perfect for Halloween parties, gothic-themed gatherings, or simply when you want something unapologetically bold and beautiful.

This fudge isn’t just about looks—it delivers on flavor and texture too. The cherries offer juicy pops of tartness that contrast the creamy sweetness of the chocolate, making it irresistibly complex. It’s quick to make and even quicker to vanish off the dessert table, making it a perfect make-ahead gift or treat.

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Why You’ll Love This Dracula’s Dark Cherry Fudge

• Show-Stopping Presentation: Those glistening red cherries peeking through dark chocolate make this fudge almost too gorgeous to eat.
• No-Bake Ease: No oven needed here—just a stovetop and a fridge. Ideal for stress-free treat making.
• Flavor Balance: Sweet, bitter, and tart unite perfectly in each bite.
• Customizable: You can swap the cherries for another fruit or add nuts or liqueur for an adult twist.
• Keeps Well: Make it ahead for parties or to satisfy late-night chocolate cravings.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating Dracula’s Dark Cherry Fudge is all about simplicity and precision. Here’s what you’ll need to pull it off flawlessly:

• Saucepan: Essential for gently melting the chocolate and combining it with the condensed milk. A heavy-bottomed pan helps avoid scorching.
• Spatula: Perfect for scraping every bit of fudge mixture from the bowl and smoothing it into your pan.
• 8×8 Baking Dish or Silicone Mold: This is the perfect size to get thick, luxurious pieces of fudge. Silicone molds also make unmolding much easier.
• Parchment Paper: Ensures your fudge lifts out cleanly without sticking.
• Mixing Bowl (optional): If you’re using a microwave instead of the stovetop, you’ll need a heatproof mixing bowl.
• Sharp Knife: For cutting those beautiful, clean squares that show off the vibrant cherries inside.

Keep everything within reach before you begin—this recipe moves quickly once the chocolate starts melting.

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Ingredients for the Dracula’s Dark Cherry Fudge

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a specific role in building texture and flavor. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why:

• Dark Chocolate Chips: The star of the show, delivering a rich, bittersweet flavor that balances the sweetness of the cherries.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Acts as the creamy binder, bringing smoothness and just the right amount of sweetness.
• Butter: Adds silkiness and depth to the fudge, creating a melt-in-your-mouth feel.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances and rounds out the chocolate flavor with a soft, aromatic finish.
• Whole Maraschino Cherries (drained and patted dry): These juicy, ruby-red cherries provide bold pops of color and tangy sweetness in every bite.
• Salt (a pinch): Just enough to amplify the chocolate and cherry flavors without being noticeable.

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How To Make the Dracula’s Dark Cherry Fudge

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease it if needed. Make sure your cherries are fully drained and patted dry to avoid excess moisture in the fudge.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Base

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the dark chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir constantly until the mixture is fully melted and smooth. Avoid overheating, as this can cause the chocolate to seize.

Step 3: Add the Flavor

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt. This is when the fudge base becomes beautifully aromatic and ready for the cherries.

Step 4: Fold in the Cherries

Gently fold in the dried maraschino cherries, reserving a few for topping. Make sure they are evenly distributed but avoid overmixing to prevent bleeding too much red into the chocolate.

Step 5: Pour and Decorate

Pour the mixture into your prepared pan and spread evenly. Press the reserved cherries gently on top for a glossy, vampire-kiss finish.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until firm. Once fully set, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper and slice into clean squares.

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Serving and Storing Dracula’s Dark Cherry Fudge

Once your Dracula’s Dark Cherry Fudge is fully chilled and cut, it’s time to enjoy the drama. These vibrant fudge squares are best served slightly chilled, which keeps their shape and gives a pleasant snap when bitten into. Arrange them on a dark slate or wooden board for a striking contrast that emphasizes their rich color.

To store, place the fudge in an airtight container with layers of parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze the fudge in a well-sealed container for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?

Fresh cherries contain more moisture and may affect the fudge’s texture. If you choose to use them, pit and halve the cherries, then roast or dehydrate them slightly to reduce water content.

Can this be made dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free dark chocolate and a coconut-based condensed milk alternative. Also, replace butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute.

Why do my cherries bleed into the chocolate?

If the cherries aren’t thoroughly dried, their juice can seep into the fudge, creating a streaked look. Pat them completely dry with paper towels before mixing them in.

Can I make this in the microwave?

Absolutely. Melt the chocolate, condensed milk, and butter in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring in between until smooth.

Is this fudge shelf-stable?

Not for long. Because of the cherries and dairy content, it should be refrigerated to maintain texture and prevent spoilage.

Can I add nuts or flavor liqueurs?

Definitely! Chopped pistachios or almonds add crunch, and a splash of cherry liqueur or amaretto gives it an adult twist.

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Want More Fudge & Candy Ideas?

If you’re enchanted by the luscious texture and dramatic flair of Dracula’s Dark Cherry Fudge, you’ll probably love these other decadent recipes:

• Winter Brittle for a crunchy, festive treat with a nutty twist.
• Simple Apricot Cream Cheese Thumbprint Cookies that balance fruit and cream in every bite.
• Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake when you’re in the mood for cozy spice meets creamy indulgence.
• Bonnie’s Blue Ribbon Chocolate Dream Cake for another rich, chocolate-forward dessert.
• Quick and Easy Fudgy Chocolate Brownie Cookies to keep the chocolate love going strong.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time: Kitchen By Kate on Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go classic or sneak in a bit of liqueur? Maybe added some nuts?

I love seeing how you personalize these recipes. If you’ve got questions or tips, share them below so we can all bake better together!

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