Cranberry Pistachio Fudge is the holiday treat you need! It's quick to make, taking only about 15 minutes, which is perfect for those bustling festive moments. You'll love the creamy white chocolate paired with tart cranberries and crunchy pistachios, creating a delightful flavor balance. Just six ingredients are all it takes, and once it's chilled for a couple of hours, you can enjoy its festive flair and vibrant colors. Store it in an airtight container for freshness, or even freeze it for later. Ready to discover how to make this festive favorite? Keep going and find out!
Recipe Overview
When the holiday season rolls around, Cranberry Pistachio Fudge becomes a go-to treat that's not only quick to make but also a delight for the senses. This easy holiday treat combines the creamy sweetness of white chocolate with the tartness of dried cranberries and the satisfying crunch of pistachios, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Many families also enjoy traditional desserts like Norwegian Kransekake, which adds a festive touch to celebrations and showcases the rich culinary heritage of Scandinavian treats.
You'll love how simple this recipe is, requiring just six ingredients. In about 15 minutes, you can prepare the fudge, making it an ideal choice for those busy holiday schedules.
Once mixed, pour the luscious mixture into a baking dish lined with parchment paper and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours. This brief wait allows the fudge to set perfectly, so you can cut it into bite-sized pieces with ease.
Visually appealing with its festive red and green colors, Cranberry Pistachio Fudge isn't just delicious; it's also a beautiful addition to your holiday spread.
Plus, it stores well in an airtight container for up to a week, making it great for gifting or enjoying all season long.
Ingredients Needed
To whip up your Cranberry Pistachio Fudge, you'll need a few key ingredients that come together to create a deliciously creamy treat. Classic desserts like this one often evoke nostalgic memories and bring warmth to holiday gatherings.
Start with 1 (14-ounce) can of sweetened condensed milk, which serves as the base for your fudge. You'll also need 14 ounces of chopped high-quality white chocolate to guarantee a rich flavor. Don't forget to add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, which will contribute to the creamy texture.
For that festive twist, mix in 1 cup of chopped dried cranberries for a burst of tartness and color. You'll also want to include 3/4 cup of chopped roasted pistachios, adding a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. To enhance the overall taste, incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Feel free to explore optional substitutions with different nuts or dried fruits if you prefer a customized touch. However, sticking with the cranberries and pistachios will give you that classic holiday vibe.
With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to create a fudge that's perfect for sharing during the festivities!
Preparation Steps
Start by warming 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk in a large dish over medium heat until it's warm but not boiling.
For a healthier twist on this festive treat, consider using natural sweeteners like honey instead of sweetened condensed milk.
Next, add 14 ounces of chopped white chocolate and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the warm milk. Stir continuously until everything is completely melted and smooth.
Once the mixture reaches that perfect consistency, remove it from heat.
Now, fold in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, along with 3/4 cup of chopped pistachios and 1 cup of chopped dried cranberries. This will give your fudge that festive touch you're looking for.
Pour the combined mixture into an 8×8 inch pan lined with parchment paper. Make sure to smooth it out evenly across the surface, making it look inviting.
Storage Tips
After you've prepared your Cranberry Pistachio Fudge, proper storage is key to keeping it fresh and delicious. To maintain its flavor and texture, store your fudge in an airtight container, similar to how you'd store cookies to prevent them from drying out and help preserve their taste a simple cookie recipe.
If you're in a warm climate, it's especially important to refrigerate the fudge. By doing so, you'll keep it soft and enjoyable for up to one week.
For ideal moisture control, consider placing paper kitchen towels in the container. These will help absorb any excess moisture, ensuring your fudge remains at its best.
If you want to extend its shelf life even further, you can freeze the fudge. However, be aware that freezing may alter the texture once it's thawed.
To make serving easier and to manage portion sizes, cut the fudge into smaller pieces before storing it. This way, you can grab a piece whenever you like without having to cut it each time.
With these storage tips, you can enjoy your festive treat for days to come!
Nutritional Information
When you indulge in Cranberry Pistachio Fudge, it's helpful to know what you're consuming. Each piece of this festive treat contains approximately 138 calories, making it a delightful yet calorie-conscious option for your holiday celebrations.
Vegan cookies, like this fudge, often feature natural sweeteners that provide essential nutrients while satisfying your sweet cravings. Here's a quick breakdown of the nutritional information:
- Total Fat: 6 grams (includes 3 grams of saturated fat)
- Cholesterol: 8 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 19 grams (with 18 grams of sugar and 1 gram of dietary fiber)
- Protein: 2 grams per serving
You'll also find 40 milligrams of sodium in each piece. The combination of cranberries and pistachios not only adds a burst of flavor but also contributes to the overall nutritional profile.
Keep in mind that these values may vary based on the specific brands and measurements of ingredients you use in your fudge. So, while you enjoy this sweet treat, you can appreciate the balance of flavors and the nutritional aspects that come with it.
Enjoy the holidays with a little indulgence, knowing you're still keeping an eye on nutrition!
Conclusion
So, you've whipped up this delightful cranberry pistachio fudge, a treat that's supposed to bring joy and cheer. Ironically, as you take a bite, you realize it's so delicious that it might just disappear faster than your holiday spirit! Who knew a festive dessert could threaten your peace of mind? But hey, that's the magic of the season—enjoy the sweetness, share the love, and embrace those fleeting moments of indulgence before they vanish like snowflakes in the sun.
