Fudge doesn’t have to be complicated or intimidating! This easy Creamy Cranberry Pistachio Fudge only takes minutes of hands-on time, requires no candy thermometer, and uses just 6 simple ingredients. Get ready to impress with this delightful homemade treat!

Craving more irresistible fudge? Explore our other popular recipes like this Easy Oreo Fudge or indulge in the seasonal goodness of our Pumpkin Fudge.

Creamy Cranberry Pistachio Fudge: Your Go-To Easy Dessert

Welcome to the world of effortless homemade candy! If the idea of making fudge has always seemed daunting, prepare to have your perceptions delightfully shattered. This Creamy Cranberry Pistachio Fudge recipe is designed for simplicity, allowing anyone to create a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth treat without the fuss of a candy thermometer or a long list of obscure ingredients. It’s the perfect blend of sweet white chocolate, tart cranberries, and crunchy pistachios, making it a vibrant and flavorful addition to any dessert table or a wonderful gift for loved ones.

Inspired by Sally’s Candy Addiction: Embracing the Joy of Homemade Sweets

There was a time when the art of candy making utterly captivated me. I immersed myself in learning how to craft every type of sweet imaginable – from delicate fondants to rich caramels and smooth buttercreams. While I created many delicious batches, I never quite reached that elusive “expert” status. Yet, the journey of discovering something so new and distinct from my usual baking routine was incredibly rewarding and fun.

It was this passion that led me to enthusiastically delve into the pages of Sally’s Candy Addiction, a truly inspiring cookbook from the acclaimed blogger Sally McKenney of Sally’s Baking Addiction. This book is a treasure trove, brimming with an incredible array of candy recipes, from luscious truffles and creamy fudges to crunchy barks. It even features an entire chapter dedicated to baking with candy, offering endless creative possibilities for home cooks.

I understand completely that candy making can often feel intimidating. Even with years in the kitchen, I still approach many intricate candy recipes with a sense of apprehension. However, what truly sets Sally’s book apart, and why I recommend it so highly, is its remarkable approachability. As I browsed through its pages, I never once felt overwhelmed. Each recipe is presented in such a clear and encouraging way that it feels like a cookbook anyone can pick up – whether you’re a complete novice or a seasoned veteran – and find something enjoyable and achievable to make. This Cranberry Pistachio Fudge recipe is a prime example of the accessible deliciousness you can find within its covers.

Why This is The Easiest & Most Irresistible Cranberry Pistachio Fudge

Beyond the delightful combination of flavors, the sheer simplicity of this Cranberry Pistachio Fudge recipe is what makes it an absolute winner. You’ll only need 6 common ingredients and a mere 5 minutes of active, hands-on cooking time. The most challenging part, if you can even call it that, is patiently waiting for the fudge to set – a small price to pay for such an incredibly creamy, sweet, and utterly delicious outcome. The texture is velvety smooth, and the tartness of the cranberries perfectly complements the rich white chocolate and the subtle saltiness of the pistachios.

I can personally attest to its addictive quality; I seriously found myself wanting to devour the entire batch! In the end, I had to share the majority of it with a neighbor to prevent myself from continuous snacking. This recipe is a testament to the fact that extraordinary flavor doesn’t require extraordinary effort. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, a thoughtful homemade gift, or simply a luxurious treat for yourself when a sweet craving strikes. It’s an excellent entry point for anyone new to making candy, offering impressive results with minimal stress.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Fudge

The beauty of this recipe lies in its minimal and easily accessible ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect creamy texture and balanced flavor profile. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each ingredient is important:

• Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is the backbone of our no-thermometer fudge. It provides the essential sweetness and creamy base that gives fudge its characteristic texture. It’s vital to use sweetened condensed milk and not evaporated milk, as the latter lacks the sugar content necessary for fudge to set properly and have the right consistency.
• White Chocolate Chips: The primary flavor component and what gives the fudge its structure. For the best possible taste and smoothest melt, I highly recommend using good quality white chocolate chips. Higher quality chocolate melts more uniformly and contributes to a richer, more luxurious flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: A classic flavor enhancer in almost any sweet treat. Real vanilla extract adds depth and warmth, elevating the overall taste of the fudge. While imitation vanilla can be used, real vanilla offers a far superior aroma and flavor that truly makes a difference.
• Salt: Often overlooked, a tiny pinch of salt is a game-changer in sweet recipes. It doesn’t make the fudge salty, but rather acts as a flavor balancer, cutting through the sweetness of the white chocolate and condensed milk to highlight the other flavors and prevent the fudge from being cloyingly sweet.
• Dried Cranberries: These vibrant red gems provide a delightful burst of tartness and a chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy fudge. Dried cranberries are thankfully quite easy to find year-round, usually located in the dried fruit section or on the baking aisle of most grocery stores.
• Salted Pistachios: Adding both a lovely green hue and a satisfying crunch, shelled salted pistachios contribute a unique nutty flavor and a hint of extra saltiness that perfectly complements the sweetness and tartness. While finding already shelled pistachios can sometimes be a bit trickier, they are worth seeking out for convenience. If you can only find unshelled varieties, simply take a few minutes to shell them yourself – it’s a small effort for a big flavor payoff.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Cranberry Pistachio Fudge

Making this delightful fudge is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect batch every time:

1. Prepare Your Dish: Start by lining an 8-inch square baking dish with foil. Make sure to leave enough overhang on the sides so you can easily lift the set fudge out of the pan later. This step is crucial for easy removal and clean cuts. Set your prepared dish aside.
2. Melt & Combine: In a medium saucepan, combine your white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Place the saucepan over medium heat. It’s very important to stir this mixture constantly to prevent the chocolate from scorching and to ensure a smooth, even melt. Continue stirring until the white chocolate has fully melted and the mixture has transformed into a thick, smooth consistency. As soon as it’s smooth, remove the pan from the heat.
3. Add Flavor & Inclusions: Once off the heat, immediately stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Mix thoroughly until these are well incorporated. Then, add your dried cranberries and shelled pistachios. Stir gently but thoroughly until the fruits and nuts are evenly distributed throughout the thick fudge mixture.
4. Pour & Set: Quickly pour the warm fudge mixture into your prepared foil-lined baking dish. Use a rubber spatula to smooth the surface evenly. Cover the dish with another piece of foil or plastic wrap. Now comes the waiting game: refrigerate the fudge for at least 4 hours, or for best results, let it sit at room temperature overnight. The longer it sets, the firmer and easier it will be to cut.
5. Cut & Serve: Once the fudge is completely set, use the foil overhangs to carefully lift the entire slab of fudge out of the baking dish. Gently peel off the foil, then place the fudge right side up on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut the fudge into neat 1-inch squares. If the fudge feels a bit too hard right out of the refrigerator, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly before cutting.

Tips for Perfect Cranberry Pistachio Fudge Every Time

• Don’t Rush the Melt: While the recipe is quick, keep the heat on medium and stir consistently. High heat can cause the chocolate to seize or burn, resulting in a grainy texture.
• Even Distribution: When adding the cranberries and pistachios, ensure they are thoroughly mixed into the fudge base. This guarantees every bite is packed with flavor and texture.
• Patience is Key for Setting: Resisting the urge to cut the fudge before it’s fully set is crucial. Properly set fudge will hold its shape beautifully and be much easier to slice cleanly.
• Storage: Store your Cranberry Pistachio Fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. It also freezes well for up to 3 months; just thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Gifting: This fudge makes an excellent homemade gift! Package it in a decorative box or tin, perhaps tied with a festive ribbon, for a thoughtful present during the holidays or special occasions.

Flavor Variations to Explore

The beauty of this simple fudge base is its versatility. Once you’ve mastered the Cranberry Pistachio version, feel free to experiment with other flavor combinations:

• Dark Chocolate & Orange Zest: Swap white chocolate for dark chocolate chips and add fresh orange zest for a sophisticated twist.
• Milk Chocolate & Pecan: Use milk chocolate chips and toasted pecans for a classic, comforting flavor.
• Mint Chocolate Chip: Add a few drops of peppermint extract and green food coloring to white chocolate fudge, then stir in mini chocolate chips.
• Lemon Raspberry: Introduce lemon zest to white chocolate fudge and fold in dried raspberries for a bright, fruity delight.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fudge

Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Yes, you can! While this recipe specifically calls for white chocolate chips to complement the cranberries and pistachios, the same method can be used with milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips. Just be aware that the flavor profile will change significantly, and you might need to adjust the amount of salt slightly.

Why is my fudge grainy?

Grainy fudge usually happens if the sugar crystals didn’t fully dissolve or if the mixture was heated too quickly. For this condensed milk fudge, constant, gentle stirring over medium heat is essential to ensure the chocolate melts smoothly and combines perfectly with the condensed milk. Avoid scraping the sides of the pan once the mixture starts thickening, as this can introduce undissolved sugar crystals.

How long does homemade fudge last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this Cranberry Pistachio Fudge will remain fresh and delicious at room temperature for up to one week. If you store it in the refrigerator, it can last up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Can I use fresh cranberries?

It’s best to stick with dried cranberries for this recipe. Fresh cranberries contain too much moisture, which can affect the texture and setting of the fudge. Dried cranberries also offer a more concentrated tart flavor and a chewier texture that works well in fudge.

Explore More Delicious Candy Recipes

If you’ve enjoyed making this easy fudge, you might love trying some of our other delightful candy creations:

• Effortless Microwave Caramels
• Classic Shaggy Dog Candy Recipe
• Festive Eggnog Truffles
• Crunchy Toffee Peanuts
• Indulgent Cherry Nut Chocolates

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Creamy Cranberry Pistachio Fudge

Rated 5 out of 5 stars by 2 reviewers

Author:
Deborah Harroun

Prep Time:
4 hours 15 minutes

Cook Time:
5 minutes

Total Time:
4 hours 20 minutes

Servings:
64 squares

Course:
Candy

Cuisine:
American

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Fudge doesn’t have to be complicated or intimidating! This easy Creamy Cranberry Pistachio Fudge only takes minutes of hands on time, no candy thermometer, and only has 6 ingredients!

Ingredients

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 3 cups (546 g) white chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (120 g) dried cranberries
• 3/4 cup (92 g) shelled salted pistachios

Instructions

1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with foil, leaving enough overhang on the sides to easily pull the fudge out once it is set. Set aside.
2. Combine the sweetened condensed milk and white chocolate chips in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stirring constantly, cook until the white chocolate has melted completely and the mixture is smooth. It will be quite thick. Once smooth, remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla and salt. Then stir in the cranberries and pistachios until evenly combined. Pour into the prepared dish and smooth the surface with a rubber spatula.
3. Cover the fudge with foil and refrigerate for 4 hours, or leave at room temperature overnight. Once set, lift the fudge out of the dish using the foil overhang. Turn the fudge upside down to remove the foil, then turn right side up on a cutting board. Cut the fudge into 1-inch squares.

Recipe Notes:

*The fudge may be a bit hard after refrigerating for 4 hours. If it’s too hard to cut, let it sit out at room temperature until it is easier to cut.

Recipe from SALLY’S CANDY ADDICTION

Nutrition Information

Serving:
1square
,

Calories:
95kcal (5%)
,

Carbohydrates:
14g (5%)
,

Protein:
1g (2%)
,

Fat:
4g (6%)
,

Saturated Fat:
3g (19%)
,

Polyunsaturated Fat:
1g
,

Trans Fat:
0g
,

Cholesterol:
3mg (1%)
,

Sodium:
30mg (1%)
,

Fiber:
0g
,

Sugar:
13g (14%)

Keywords:
candy recipe, fudge recipe, white chocolate fudge, cranberry pistachio fudge, easy homemade fudge