Are you craving a decadent treat that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Cherry Cordial Fudge recipe is the perfect answer for satisfying your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a delightful blend of creamy, rich fudge infused with the bright, tangy burst of cherry cordial – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion, from cozy nights in to festive gatherings. This recipe offers a delicious and easy dessert option for anyone looking for quick dinner ideas or simply a satisfying homemade cooking experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 (12-ounce) package semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cherry cordial (or more, to taste)
- Optional: Pinch of salt, chopped cherries for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate
In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until completely smooth and melted. Be careful not to overheat; low and slow is key for a smooth texture.
Step 2: Stir in Flavor
Remove the bowl from the microwave and stir in the vanilla extract and cherry cordial. Mix until everything is well combined and the mixture is evenly colored. If you prefer a stronger cherry flavor, feel free to add more cordial, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired intensity. A pinch of salt can enhance the sweetness.
Step 3: Set and Cut
Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy lifting. Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm. Once set, lift the fudge from the dish using the parchment paper overhang and cut into squares.
Step 4: Garnish and Enjoy!
Garnish with chopped cherries, if desired, for an extra touch of visual appeal and cherry flavor. Serve and enjoy your homemade Cherry Cordial Fudge! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tips for the Best Fudge:
- Use good quality chocolate: The flavor of your fudge will depend heavily on the chocolate you choose. Consider using a high-quality semi-sweet chocolate for the best results.
- Don't overheat the chocolate: Overheating can cause the chocolate to seize and become grainy. Microwave in short bursts and stir frequently.
- Let it set completely: Allow the fudge to chill thoroughly before cutting. This ensures clean cuts and prevents the fudge from being too soft.
Variations:
- Other cordials: Experiment with different fruit cordials, like raspberry or blackberry, to create unique flavor combinations.
- Nuts: Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added texture and flavor.
- Spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can complement the cherry flavor beautifully.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a rough estimate per square is approximately 200-250 calories, with varying amounts of fat, sugar, and protein. For precise nutritional information, it's best to use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients and serving size.
This recipe makes a delightful and delicious dessert that's perfect for any occasion. The ease of preparation makes it an ideal option for those looking for simple yet impressive food recipes. Enjoy the process of homemade cooking and the sweet reward of this easy recipe for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It's a recipe guaranteed to become a new favorite among your best recipes.