Strawberry Fudge

This creamy Strawberry Fudge is a delightful treat that combines rich white chocolate with the sweet burst of strawberry flavor. It’s perfect for various occasions like Valentine’s Day, gift-giving, or simply indulging in a little sweetness any time of the year. The unique swirling of colors and flavors makes it an eye-catching dessert that will impress your friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe only requires a few simple steps, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of white chocolate and strawberry creates a mouthwatering taste that is hard to resist.
• Perfect for Gifting: This fudge makes an excellent homemade gift for holidays, birthdays, or just because!
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as a dessert, snack, or even as part of a celebration spread.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The swirled colors not only taste good but also look stunning on any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful Strawberry Fudge, you’ll need some essential tools that make the process easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 3 quart saucepan
• Spatula
• Whisk
• 9-inch square pan
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• 3 quart saucepan: This size is ideal for cooking the sugar mixture evenly without risking overflow.
• Spatula: A silicone spatula is perfect for stirring and scraping down the sides of the pan, ensuring everything combines smoothly.
• Parchment paper: Lining your pan with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes removal effortless.

Ingredients

To prepare your delicious Strawberry Fudge, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons strawberry extract
• 1 teaspoon red gel food coloring
• 3 cups sugar
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2/3 cup half and half
• 12 ounces white chocolate chips
• 7 ounces marshmallow cream
• 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Strawberry Fudge

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the red food coloring and strawberry extract. Whisk until fully combined.

Step 2: Line Your Pan

Line a 9-inch square pan with parchment paper and set it aside.

Step 3: Combine Sugar, Butter, and Half and Half

In a 3 quart saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, softened butter, and half and half. Stir frequently until the mixture begins to boil.

Step 4: Cook the Mixture

Once boiling, continue stirring consistently with a spatula for about 3–4 minutes.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips

Remove from heat. Add the white chocolate chips to the saucepan and cover. Let it sit for about 2 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt.

Step 6: Mix Until Smooth

Whisk the mixture until smooth. Then mix in marshmallow cream and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 7: Divide the Fudge

Pour half of the fudge into your prepared baking dish.

Step 8: Incorporate Strawberry Flavor

Mix the strawberry gel mixture into the remaining half of fudge until well blended.

Step 9: Swirl Together

Drop dollops of strawberry fudge onto the white fudge layer in the pan. Use a butterknife to swirl them together gently.

Step 10: Cool and Cut

Allow your Strawberry Fudge to cool completely overnight before cutting into 1-inch squares. Enjoy this delightful treat!

How to Serve Strawberry Fudge

Strawberry Fudge can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply treating yourself, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

As Individual Treats

• Wrap each piece in colorful foil for a fun and festive presentation.
• Serve on small dessert plates with fresh strawberries for an elegant touch.

With Ice Cream

• Pair your fudge with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a creamy contrast.
• Drizzle with chocolate sauce to add extra decadence and flavor.

In Gift Boxes

• Package the fudge in decorative boxes as gifts for friends and family.
• Add a handwritten note to personalize your gift, making it even more special.

At Parties

• Create a dessert platter with an assortment of candies, including Strawberry Fudge.
• Offer it alongside coffee or tea for a sweet ending to any meal.

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How to Perfect Strawberry Fudge

To ensure your Strawberry Fudge turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use quality ingredients: Opt for high-quality white chocolate chips and pure strawberry extract for the best flavor.
• Don’t skip the resting time: Allow the fudge to cool overnight, as this helps achieve the ideal texture and sets the flavors.
• Be patient while mixing: Stirring well after adding the chocolate is crucial for a smooth consistency; don’t rush this step.
• Experiment with toppings: Consider adding sprinkles or crushed nuts on top before it sets for added texture and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Fudge

Serving Strawberry Fudge can be enhanced by pairing it with delicious side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of berries and citrus complements the sweetness of the fudge beautifully.
2. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty crunch balances the rich flavor of the fudge, creating a delightful contrast.
3. Cheesecake Bites: These creamy treats pair well with the fruity notes of strawberry fudge.
4. Mini Cupcakes: Offer an assortment of cupcakes, such as vanilla or strawberry-flavored, to create a festive dessert table.
5. Almond Biscotti: The crunchy texture of biscotti provides a satisfying bite alongside soft fudge.
6. Caramel Sauce Dippers: Serve warm caramel sauce for dipping both strawberries and pieces of fudge, enhancing their sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Strawberry Fudge is enjoyable, but a few common mistakes can spoil the experience. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the food coloring: Omitting red gel food coloring can result in a less visually appealing fudge. Use it to enhance the strawberry color and make your fudge look more tempting.

• Not stirring enough: Inadequate stirring while heating the mixture can cause uneven melting of the chocolate. Stir consistently to ensure a smooth texture.

• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold butter or half and half can lead to clumps in your fudge. Always use softened butter and room temperature half and half for best results.

• Not letting it cool completely: Cutting into the fudge too soon can lead to messy squares. Allow it to cool overnight for optimal slicing.

• Ignoring storage tips: Improper storage can cause your fudge to dry out or lose flavor. Follow storage instructions closely to maintain freshness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Strawberry Fudge in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Fudge

• Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Frozen fudge can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Fudge

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C). Place fudge on a baking sheet for a few minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until just warm.
• Stovetop: Place fudge in a pan over low heat, stirring constantly until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Strawberry Fudge, here are some answers that may help:

How long does Strawberry Fudge last?

Strawberry Fudge lasts about one week in the refrigerator and up to three months when frozen properly.

Can I customize my Strawberry Fudge?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, different extracts, or even swirl in other flavors like chocolate for variety.

What should I serve with Strawberry Fudge?

Pair it with vanilla ice cream or enjoy it alongside fresh strawberries for an extra treat!

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Yes! This Strawberry Fudge recipe is easy and perfect for beginners who want to try making candy at home.

Final Thoughts

This creamy Strawberry Fudge is not only delightful but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether it’s Valentine’s Day or just a cozy night in, this recipe fits right in. Feel free to customize it with different flavors or toppings. Don’t hesitate; give this delicious treat a try!