If you’re ready to treat yourself to something truly indulgent, look no further than this Strawberry Swirl White Chocolate Fudge Recipe. It’s a luscious blend of creamy white chocolate and the bright, fresh flavor of strawberry that creates a stunning and irresistible dessert. This fudge strikes the perfect balance between silky sweetness and a tangy strawberry swirl, making it a must-try for anyone who loves rich, fruity treats that are as lovely to look at as they are to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each one plays a crucial role in building the smooth, flavorful texture and that signature pink swirl of this fudge. From creamy butter to sweet white chocolate chips, every item is essential to get the perfect balance of taste and consistency.
- Strawberry extract: Provides the authentic strawberry flavor without adding liquid, which keeps the fudge texture perfect.
- Red gel food coloring: Adds vibrant color to your strawberry swirl for that eye-catching look.
- Sugar: The core sweet element that creates the base of this rich fudge.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Makes the fudge luxuriously creamy and smooth.
- Half and half: Adds richness and keeps the fudge moist and tender.
- White chocolate chips: The main chocolate ingredient that gives this fudge its signature creamy sweetness.
- Marshmallow cream: A secret ingredient for velvety texture and a subtle lightness.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors and adds warmth to the sweet profile.
How to Make Strawberry Swirl White Chocolate Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Strawberry Color and Flavor
Start by whisking together the red gel food coloring and strawberry extract in a small bowl. This mixture will create that beautiful pink hue and infuse the strawberry flavor into part of your fudge later. Combining these upfront ensures even color and taste distribution.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Line a 9-inch square pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make it easier to lift out the fudge once it’s set. This simple step saves you from any messy cleanups and keeps your fudge looking perfect.
Step 3: Heat the Sugar, Butter, and Half and Half
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, softened butter, and half and half. Stir the mixture gently until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth, then allow it to reach a rolling boil. This cooking step is where the sugar dissolves and begins to turn into that fudgy base.
Step 4: Boil and Stir Consistently
Once boiling, keep stirring constantly with a spatula for 3 to 4 minutes. This consistent stirring prevents burning and helps develop the right texture for the fudge, ensuring it won’t be grainy.
Step 5: Add White Chocolate Chips and Let Melt
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the white chocolate chips. Cover the pot and let it sit for 2 minutes. This resting period allows the chocolate to melt evenly without needing extra heat, keeping the fudge smooth and luscious.
Step 6: Whisk Until Smooth and Add Creams
Whisk the mixture until it’s perfectly smooth. Then fold in the marshmallow cream and vanilla extract. The marshmallow cream gives a dreamy creaminess and light texture, while the vanilla brings depth and a comforting aroma.
Step 7: Divide the Fudge for Swirling
Pour half of the fudge mixture into your lined baking pan. Into the remaining half, mix in the strawberry color and flavor mixture you prepared earlier. This step is what creates the signature swirl effect and the lovely contrast between white and strawberry.
Step 8: Create the Strawberry Swirl
Drop spoonfuls of the strawberry fudge onto the white fudge layer in the pan. Use a butter knife to gently swirl through the two layers. This swirling technique is not only fun but also makes each piece visually stunning with a marbled pattern.
Step 9: Let the Fudge Set
Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature overnight. This slow setting process ensures the perfect firm but creamy consistency. Once set, use a sharp knife to cut the fudge into 1-inch squares and get ready to indulge!
How to Serve Strawberry Swirl White Chocolate Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
Serve your fudge with fresh strawberry slices or a sprinkle of freeze-dried strawberry powder for an extra burst of color and flavor that complements the strawberry swirl inside. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a charming snowy touch perfect for gift-giving or parties.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee, which balances the sweetness with a warm, slightly bitter note. It also complements a fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an elevated dessert experience, adding freshness alongside that decadent creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
For gift-giving, wrap the fudge squares individually in wax paper and tie with a pretty ribbon. You can also layer fudge pieces in a decorative tin with parchment paper between layers. Presenting the Strawberry Swirl White Chocolate Fudge Recipe as colorful jar gifts or party favors is always a swoon-worthy idea!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your fudge in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Keeping it sealed prevents drying out and preserves that fresh, creamy texture we all love.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Strawberry Swirl White Chocolate Fudge Recipe longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. Wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container to avoid freezer burn while maintaining flavor and texture.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. If you prefer it slightly softer, leave the fudge at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving rather than reheating it in the microwave.
FAQs
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of strawberry extract?
Fresh strawberries can add moisture that might alter the fudge texture, so it’s best to stick with strawberry extract and gel coloring for that perfect consistency and vibrant swirl.
Is the marshmallow cream necessary?
Marshmallow cream helps create a smooth, creamy texture and prevents the fudge from crystallizing. If you don’t have it, try substituting with a similar amount of whipped cream cheese, but the texture might be slightly different.
Can I make this fudge dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use coconut cream instead of half and half. Be sure your white chocolate chips are also dairy-free.
How long does the fudge take to set?
For the best texture, allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature overnight. This slow setting process gives the fudge that perfect firm yet creamy bite.
Can I change the flavor of this fudge?
Absolutely! By swapping the strawberry extract and coloring with other extracts and food coloring like raspberry or orange, you can create colorful, personalized fudge variations.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Swirl White Chocolate Fudge Recipe is such a joyful treat that brings sweetness, creaminess, and a pop of fruity brightness all in one bite. It’s as perfect for sharing with friends as it is for savoring solo moments of indulgence. I genuinely hope you give this recipe a try—it’s bound to become a favorite in your sweet repertoire.
Print
Strawberry Swirl White Chocolate Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes plus overnight cooling
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Strawberry Fudge recipe combines creamy white chocolate fudge with a delightful strawberry swirl, creating a visually appealing and deliciously rich treat. The smooth vanilla-infused white chocolate base contrasts beautifully with the vibrant strawberry-flavored swirl, making for a perfect homemade confection that sets overnight and slices into perfect bite-sized squares.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 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
Strawberry Swirl
- 2 teaspoons strawberry extract
- 1 teaspoon red gel food coloring
Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberry Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the red gel food coloring and strawberry extract, whisking them together until fully blended to create the vibrant strawberry swirl color.
- Line the Pan: Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set it aside for pouring the fudge later.
- Combine Ingredients: In a 3-quart saucepan, combine sugar, softened unsalted butter, and half and half over medium heat, stirring gently to combine the ingredients before bringing them to a boil.
- Boil the Mixture: Once the mixture reaches a boil, stir constantly with a spatula and continue cooking for 3 to 4 minutes to dissolve the sugar and begin the fudge base.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Remove the pan from heat, immediately add white chocolate chips, and cover the pot. Let the mixture sit for 2 minutes to allow the chocolate to soften.
- Mix until Smooth: Whisk the mixture until smooth and fully melted. Then, fold in the marshmallow cream and vanilla extract until the fudge base is silky and consistent.
- Divide the Fudge: Pour half of the white fudge into the prepared pan. Take the remaining half and stir in the prepared red gel and strawberry extract mixture to create the strawberry-flavored fudge.
- Create Swirl Effect: Drop spoonfuls of the strawberry fudge over the white fudge in the pan, then gently swirl the two colors together using a butterknife for a marbled effect.
- Set the Fudge: Allow the fudge to cool completely by leaving it overnight at room temperature before cutting into 1-inch squares for serving.
Notes
- Using parchment paper helps lift the fudge out easily after it sets.
- Ensure constant stirring during the boil to prevent burning or crystallization.
- For a firmer fudge, you may refrigerate after cooling to room temperature.
- You can substitute half and half with whole milk or cream for different textures.
- Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
