Welcome, fudge lovers! If you’re searching for a festive, indulgent dessert that combines the richness of chocolate, the chewiness of marshmallows, and the tangy sweetness of candied cherries, you’ve come to the right place. These Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars are a must-try recipe for anyone who loves easy, no-bake treats that pack a flavorful punch. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or simply craving something sweet, these marshmallow fudge bars will quickly become your new go-to dessert.

Imagine biting into a luscious square of fudge that melts in your mouth with the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. The combination of semi-sweet chocolate, marshmallows, and candied cherries creates an unforgettable taste experience. Plus, these bars are not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make, allowing you to whip them up in no time at all. What’s more, they require no baking at all, making them perfect for those who want a sweet treat without the heat of the oven!

Perfect for holiday festivities or as a delightful gift for loved ones, these Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars are sure to impress. With just a handful of ingredients and a short preparation time, you’ll have a stunning dessert to share. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love making these treats!

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chocolate, marshmallows, and cherries creates a unique and mouthwatering flavor profile.
Quick and Easy: With just a few steps to prepare, this recipe is perfect for beginners and busy schedules.
No-Bake Delight: Enjoy this sweet treat without turning on the oven, making it a great option for warmer days.
Customizable: Feel free to substitute ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
Perfect for Celebrations: Ideal for any festive occasion like holidays, birthdays, or just a special dessert at home.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before getting started on this delicious Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bar recipe, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and workspace to ensure a smooth cooking process. Begin by gathering all the necessary ingredients and tools. You’ll need a medium-sized saucepan, a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring, and an 8×8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. The parchment will help you lift the fudge out of the pan once it’s set, making serving much easier.

Make sure to have all your ingredients measured and ready to go. This recipe involves melting chocolate and combining everything quickly, so having everything at hand will make the process more efficient. A clean kitchen workspace not only helps in cooking but also keeps you organized, so you can focus on the fun of making fudge!

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup mini marshmallows
3/4 cup candied cherries, halved
1/2 cup salted peanuts
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by preparing your baking pan. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring to leave some overhang on the sides. This overhang will be a lifesaver when it comes time to lift the fudge out of the pan effortlessly once it’s set.

Step 2: Melt the Base

In a medium saucepan, bring together the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Set the saucepan over low heat and stir continuously. This is crucial to prevent any chocolate from burning on the bottom. Keep stirring until you achieve a completely smooth and melted mixture. The result should be glossy and creamy. Tip: Keeping the heat low and stirring consistently will ensure the best texture for your fudge.

Step 3: Add Flavor

Once your chocolate mixture is smooth and well combined, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This simple step enhances the overall flavor profile of your fudge, making it even more delicious!

Step 4: Mix in the Add-Ins

Next, it’s time to fold in the extras! Gently add the mini marshmallows, halved candied cherries, and salted peanuts to the melted chocolate mixture. Use a spatula to carefully mix everything together until the add-ins are evenly distributed. It’s important to be gentle here to avoid melting the marshmallows.

Step 5: Set the Fudge

Now, pour the fudge mixture into your prepared baking pan. Use your spatula to spread it out into an even layer. Once it’s nicely leveled, place the baking pan in the refrigerator. You’ll want to let the fudge chill for at least 2 hours until it is firm enough to slice.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

After the fudge has set, carefully lift it out of the pan using the overhanging parchment paper. Place it on a cutting board and slice it into squares. Now you’re ready to enjoy your festive marshmallow fudge treats!

Variations

Protein: Add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for an extra crunch.
Vegetables: Mix in some finely chopped dried fruits for a more fruity flavor.
Spices: Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the chocolate mixture for a warming spice note.

Cooking Notes

Chill Properly: Make sure to allow the fudge to set completely in the refrigerator for clean, easy slices and a firm texture.
Customize Add-Ins: Feel free to swap ingredients; for example, swap candied cherries for dried cranberries or add shredded coconut for a twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these fudge bars alongside a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot cocoa for a delightful combination.
Think about gifting these fudge bars as a treat to friends or family during the holidays!

Tips

Use Quality Chocolate: Ensure to use good quality chocolate chips for the best flavor and texture.
Slicing Technique: Clean your knife with hot water between cuts for nice, clean edges on your fudge squares.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes (including chilling time)

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 220 calories per square
Protein: 3 grams
Sodium: 100 mg

FAQs

Can I make this fudge vegan?

Yes! You can use vegan chocolate chips, dairy-free condensed milk, and vegan marshmallows to make this a completely vegan recipe.

How long do these fudge bars last?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these fudge bars can last up to 2 weeks.

Can I freeze Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars?

Absolutely! You can freeze these fudge bars for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before storing.

Can I use different types of chocolate?

Certainly! You can experiment with dark chocolate or white chocolate to suit your taste. Just keep in mind that adjusting the flavor will affect the overall taste of your fudge.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars are not only easy to make but are a decadent treat that everyone will love. With their rich chocolate base, chewy marshmallows, and the unique flavor of candied cherries, they’ll definitely become a favorite. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you need a sweet pick-me-up, these bars bring joy to any occasion. So grab your ingredients, follow these simple instructions, and get ready to impress your friends and family! Don’t forget to share your experiences or any creative variations you try in the comments below!