Imagine capturing the iconic flavor of Ben & Jerry’s legendary Cherry Garcia ice cream – sweet cherries, rich dark chocolate, and crunchy walnut pieces – in a single, decadent square of homemade fudge. That’s exactly what this recipe delivers: a no-bake, creamy fudge that is a perfect, irresistible tribute to one of the world’s most beloved frozen treats. Whether you’re a die-hard Cherry Garcia fan or simply a chocolate lover in search of an impressive homemade confection, this recipe is your ticket to dessert heaven. Far easier to make than you might think, this fudge requires no candy thermometer and comes together in under 20 minutes of active time. Get ready to create a dessert that will have everyone begging for the recipe.
What You’ll Need: Cherry Garcia Fudge Ingredients
The magic of this fudge lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in mimicking that iconic ice cream flavor in fudge form.
For the Chocolate Fudge Base:
- 3 cups (525g) high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz / 397g) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- A pinch of fine sea salt
For the Cherry Garcia Mix-Ins:
- 1 cup (150g) maraschino cherries, thoroughly drained and patted dry, then roughly chopped
- 3/4 cup (85g) walnuts, toasted and coarsely chopped
Equipment:
- 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan
- Heatproof spatula
- Sharp knife for slicing
Step-by-Step: How to Make Cherry Garcia Fudge
Follow these simple, numbered steps for foolproof, creamy fudge every single time.
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Line your 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving a slight overhang on at least two opposite sides. This “sling” will make it incredibly easy to lift the entire block of fudge out of the pan once it’s set. Lightly grease the paper/foil with a dab of butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Melt the Fudge Base
In your heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, the entire can of sweetened condensed milk, and the butter. Place the pan over low to medium-low heat. Crucial Tip: Low and slow is the key here to prevent the chocolate from seizing or scorching. Stir constantly and patiently with your spatula until the mixture is completely smooth, glossy, and well combined. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Finish the Base & Add Mix-Ins
Once smooth, remove the saucepan from the heat immediately. Stir in the vanilla extract and the pinch of salt. Now, gently fold in the prepared chopped maraschino cherries and toasted walnuts. Reserve a small handful of each for sprinkling on top, if desired. Fold until the add-ins are evenly distributed throughout the rich chocolate mixture.
Step 4: Set and Chill
Pour and spread the thick fudge mixture into your prepared pan. Use the spatula to smooth it into an even layer. If you reserved any cherries or walnuts, press them lightly onto the surface now. Let the fudge cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then cover it and transfer it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 3-4 hours, or preferably overnight, until it is completely firm.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Using the parchment paper sling, lift the entire block of fudge from the pan. Place it on a cutting board. For clean slices, use a large, sharp knife. You can warm the knife under hot water and dry it quickly between cuts. Slice into 1-inch squares. For a true tribute, serve your fudge pieces slightly chilled, just like the ice cream!
Pro Tips for Perfect Cherry Garcia Fudge
- Drain Those Cherries! This is the most important step. Pat the cherries dry thoroughly after chopping. Any excess liquid can prevent the fudge from setting properly and make it greasy.
- Toast Your Walnuts: Toasting the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant dramatically enhances their flavor and crunch.
- Quality Matters: Since chocolate is the star, using a brand of chocolate chips you enjoy eating (like Ghirardelli or Guittard) will yield the best-tasting fudge.
- Customize It: For a darker, more intense flavor, swap 1 cup of the semi-sweet chips for dark chocolate chips. For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts it will still be deliciously cherry-chocolatey.
- Storage: Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Your Homemade Dessert Legend Awaits
Creating this Homemade Cherry Garcia Fudge is more than just following a recipe; it’s about recreating a moment of pure, nostalgic joy in your own kitchen. The process is simple, the result is stunning, and the flavor is an undeniable crowd-pleaser that pays perfect homage to its ice cream inspiration. This fudge is perfect for holiday gift boxes, party platters, or as a special treat to satisfy your own sweet cravings. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the simple process, and get ready to impress. One bite of this rich, cherry-studded, walnut-crunchy chocolate delight, and you’ll understand why some legends are worth recreating. Don’t just dream about Cherry Garcia make it, slice it, and savor it today.
