Few names in the dessert world evoke as much instant joy as Cherry Garcia. Since 1987, Ben & Jerry’s iconic ice cream flavor a sublime combination of cherry ice cream with cherries and fudge flakes has been a staple of sweet indulgence. What if you could capture that beloved, nostalgic flavor in a new, rich, and shareable form? Enter Cherry Garcia Fudge.
This recipe is a heartfelt homage to the original, transforming its core elements into a dense, creamy, and utterly decadent fudge. It’s a perfect treat for parties, gift-giving, or satisfying a powerful chocolate-and-cherry craving. By making it at home, you control the quality of ingredients, ensuring every bite is packed with real cherry flavor and luxurious chocolate. Let’s dive into the kitchen and recreate a classic.
The Magic of the Flavor Combination
The genius of Cherry Garcia lies in its balance. It’s not just chocolate and fruit thrown together; it’s a carefully orchestrated symphony. The slight tartness of the cherries cuts through the profound richness of the chocolate, preventing it from being overly sweet. The fudge flakes in the original ice cream provide textural contrast, a element we replicate with chunks of dark chocolate or fudge pieces within our creamy fudge base.
This fudge recipe honors that balance. We use a combination of semi-sweet and dark chocolate to achieve a deep, complex cocoa flavor that isn’t one-dimensional. The cherries, preferably a mix of pureed and chopped, distribute their flavor throughout the entire batch while offering juicy little bursts in every bite. It’s a sophisticated treat that feels both fun and gourmet.
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Cherry Garcia Fudge
Using high-quality ingredients is the secret to fudge that tastes exceptional, not just sugary. Here’s what you’ll need and why each component matters:
For the Fudge Base:
- 3 cups (525g) Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: The primary chocolate source. Semi-sweet provides a classic, well-rounded flavor that most people love.
- 1 cup (175g) Dark Chocolate Chunks or Chips: This adds depth and a more adult, less sweet chocolate note, mimicking the complexity of the original fudge flakes.
- 1 can (14 oz / 397g) Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is the magic ingredient that creates a smooth, soft, and perfectly set fudge without the need for a candy thermometer. Do not substitute with evaporated milk.
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter: Added for a richer mouthfeel and a slight sheen.
- 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the other flavors and adds a warm, aromatic note.
For the Cherry Garcia Elements:
- 1 cup (120g) Dried Cherries, chopped: Using dried cherries instead of fresh or frozen is crucial. They won’t release water into the fudge, which would prevent it from setting properly. Their chewy texture and concentrated flavor are perfect.
- 2-3 tablespoons Cherry Jam or Preserves: This is our flavor powerhouse! It infuses the entire fudge with a authentic, fruity cherry essence and a beautiful pinkish swirl.
- 1/2 cup (75g) Toasted Pecan Pieces (Optional): While some versions of the ice cream omit nuts, many include them. Toasted pecans add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that complements both the chocolate and cherry. Feel free to omit for a nut-free version.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
This is a “no-fail” fudge method, making it accessible even for beginner cooks. The entire process takes about 15 minutes of active time.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Yields: 36 pieces
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on two opposite sides. This “sling” will make it incredibly easy to lift the set fudge out of the pan for clean cutting. Lightly grease the parchment paper with butter or cooking spray.
- Toast the Pecans (If Using): In a small, dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecan pieces for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Set aside to cool.
- Hydrate the Cherries (Pro Tip): To plump up the dried cherries and make them even juicier, place them in a small bowl and cover with hot water for 5 minutes. Then, drain them thoroughly and pat dry with a paper towel. This step prevents them from being too chewy in the final fudge. Chop them into smaller pieces if they are large.
- Create the Fudge Base: In a medium-sized, heatproof bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, dark chocolate chunks, and sweetened condensed milk. Add the 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Double Boiler Method: Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (ensure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water). Stir continuously with a spatula until the chocolate and butter are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Microwave Method: Heat the mixture in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring vigorously after each interval, until completely smooth. This usually takes about 90 seconds to 2 minutes. Do not overheat.
- Incorporate the Flavors: Once the chocolate mixture is smooth, remove it from the heat. Immediately stir in the vanilla extract and the cherry jam. Swirl it in; you don’t need it to be fully uniform.
- Add the Chunks and Nuts: Gently fold in the chopped, hydrated dried cherries and the toasted pecans (if using). Reserve a small handful of each to sprinkle on top for a beautiful presentation.
- Set the Fudge: Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared parchment-lined pan. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer. Sprinkle the reserved cherries and pecans on top and gently press them in.
- Chill to Perfection: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the fudge is completely firm. For the cleanest cuts, allow it to chill overnight.
- Slice and Serve: Using the parchment paper sling, lift the entire block of fudge out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board. Using a large, sharp knife (wiping it clean between cuts for neat squares), slice the fudge into 1×1 inch squares.
Storing Your Culinary Masterpiece
Store your Cherry Garcia fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep perfectly for up to two weeks. The cool temperature helps maintain its firm, creamy texture. For longer storage, you can freeze the fudge for up to 3 months. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Conclusion: More Than Just a Treat
This Cherry Garcia Fudge is more than just a simple candy. It’s a conversation starter, a edible memory, and a testament to the power of a great flavor combination. It captures the playful spirit of Ben & Jerry’s in an elegant, homemade format. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the original ice cream or simply a connoisseur of exceptional fudge, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the simple process, and get ready to share a piece of dessert history with everyone you love.
