Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (60–70% cacao)
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional but enhances cherry flavor)
- 3/4 cup dried cherries, chopped
- 2 tablespoons cherry preserves or jam (for the “bloody” swirl)
- Red food coloring (gel or liquid), optional
- Optional toppings: coarse sea salt, edible glitter, candy eyeballs, red sprinkles
Instructions
- Prep your pan: Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy lifting.
- Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan, gently melt chocolate and sweetened condensed milk until smooth and fully combined.
- Flavor it: Stir in vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and chopped dried cherries.
- Pour and swirl: Spread fudge into the prepared pan. Warm cherry preserves slightly, stir in food coloring if using, and dollop on top. Swirl gently with a knife or skewer.
- Chill: Refrigerate for 3–4 hours or until firm.
- Slice and serve: Use a sharp, warm knife for clean cuts. Wipe between slices if needed.
Notes
- No dried cherries? Use freeze-dried or well-drained maraschino cherries.
- Skip the jam if you prefer a more classic cherry fudge without the swirl.
- Top with candy eyes or red sprinkles for extra Halloween fun.
- Freeze for up to 2 months in layers separated by parchment.
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best taste and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: halloween fudge, dark cherry fudge, spooky treats, chocolate cherry dessert, vampire fudge