There’s something truly irresistible about the combination of fresh strawberries and smooth cream, especially when transformed into a luscious fudge. This strawberries and cream fudge recipe is a delightful treat that's easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a special indulgence. You’ll love how the sweet, tangy strawberry flavor blends with the creamy texture in every bite.
If you’re looking for a new homemade confection to impress at parties or just satisfy your sweet tooth, this strawberries and cream fudge is a must-try. Let’s dive into why this recipe stands out and how you can make it easily at home.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy texture balanced perfectly by natural strawberry sweetness.
- Simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
- Quick to prepare and sets in under 3 hours.
- Beautiful pink hue that looks stunning on dessert trays.
- Customizable with fresh or freeze-dried strawberries for varied intensity.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your delicious strawberries and cream fudge. Make sure to use high-quality cream and fresh strawberries for the best results.
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2/3 cup whole milk
- 1 (7 oz) jar marshmallow creme (marshmallow fluff)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- Pinch of salt
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including setting time)
- Servings: 24 squares
- Calories: Approximately 130 per square
How to Make Strawberries and Cream Fudge – Recipe You Have to Try
- Line an 8x8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, butter, and whole milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Once boiling, continue to cook without stirring for about 5 minutes until the candy thermometer reads 234°F (soft-ball stage). Remove from heat immediately.
- Stir in the marshmallow creme, vanilla extract, salt, and white chocolate chips until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Fold in the crushed freeze-dried strawberries gently to avoid deflating the fudge.
- Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. If desired, sprinkle a few extra crushed freeze-dried strawberries on top for garnish.
- Let the fudge cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least another hour until firm.
- Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge from the pan. Cut into 24 squares with a sharp knife.
- Serve immediately or store as directed below.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use a reliable candy thermometer for accurate temperature; fudge texture depends on it.
- Crush freeze-dried strawberries finely for even distribution and better texture.
- Don't skip chilling time—it helps the fudge set perfectly for clean cuts.
- Use parchment paper to line your pan for easy fudge removal without mess.
- For a more intense strawberry flavor, add a few drops of natural strawberry extract along with the vanilla.
Storage and Reheating
Store your strawberries and cream fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This keeps it fresh and maintains the creamy texture. For longer storage, wrap the pieces tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen fudge in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid microwaving fudge as it can alter the texture and cause it to become grainy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?
Fresh strawberries add moisture, which can affect the fudge’s texture and setting. Freeze-dried strawberries are preferred for a concentrated flavor and to maintain the fudgy consistency.
Is it possible to make this fudge dairy-free?
You can substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut milk instead of whole milk. However, the texture may vary slightly, so adjustments may be needed.
How long does it take for the fudge to set properly?
The fudge should be left to cool at room temperature for an hour and then chilled for at least another hour in the refrigerator to set firmly before cutting.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to this fudge?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts like almonds or pecans complement the strawberries nicely. Just fold them in along with the crushed strawberries before pouring the fudge into the pan.
