Easy Cranberry Orange Fudge

Save this recipe on:

Looking for a no-bake dessert that screams festive flavor without the fuss? This Easy Cranberry Orange Fudge is your new holiday best friend. Bursting with zesty orange and chewy dried cranberries, this creamy white chocolate fudge brings a bright, tangy twist to traditional fudge. It’s the kind of treat you make once and then every year after that—because everyone asks for it.

Each bite is a balance of rich sweetness and citrus sparkle, and the texture is smooth with a surprise chew from the fruit. Plus, you don’t need a candy thermometer or any tricky steps. Just melt, mix, chill, and slice. It’s the perfect make-ahead dessert for parties, gifting, or just keeping stashed in the fridge for late-night cravings.

---

Why You’ll Love This Easy Cranberry Orange Fudge

• No baking required: Skip the oven and stovetop drama.
• Festive flavors: Cranberry and orange bring that perfect winter vibe.
• Crowd-pleaser: Both kids and adults go wild for these.
• Quick to make: Just 10 minutes of active prep time.
• Perfect for gifting: They look beautiful and package well.

---

What Kind of White Chocolate Should I Use?

For a smooth and creamy fudge, use high-quality white chocolate chips or baking bars. Cheaper versions tend to seize or turn grainy when melted. Brands like Ghirardelli, Guittard, or Lindt work wonderfully. Avoid white candy melts or almond bark for this recipe—they lack the depth and creaminess you want here.

---

Ingredients for the Easy Cranberry Orange Fudge

To create this luscious fudge, you’ll only need a handful of ingredients—each one plays a key role in texture and taste:

• White chocolate chips: The base of the fudge, providing sweetness and a smooth, creamy texture.
• Sweetened condensed milk: Adds richness and binds the fudge together.
• Dried cranberries: Chewy, tart, and perfect for contrast.
• Orange zest: Bright and zesty, it infuses the fudge with citrusy freshness.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and enhances the overall sweetness.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance all the sweet notes.

---

How To Make the Easy Cranberry Orange Fudge

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, letting some hang over the sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly until the chocolate melts completely and the mixture is smooth.

Step 3: Add Flavor

Remove from heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and freshly grated orange zest.

Step 4: Mix in the Cranberries

Fold in most of the dried cranberries, saving a few to sprinkle on top for visual appeal.

Step 5: Transfer and Chill

Pour the mixture into your prepared pan. Spread evenly and top with the remaining cranberries and a touch more zest. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until firm.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Once set, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper and cut it into small squares. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

---

How to Serve and Store This Festive Fudge

This recipe makes approximately 25 small squares, making it ideal for parties, dessert platters, or edible gifts. Serve it chilled for the cleanest slices, or let it come to room temperature for a softer bite.

To store, keep the fudge in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze in layers separated by wax paper for up to 2 months.

---

What to Serve With Easy Cranberry Orange Fudge?

A Hot Cup of Tea

Pair the fudge with a spiced black tea or citrus herbal blend for a cozy afternoon treat.

Holiday Charcuterie Board

Add the fudge to a dessert or charcuterie board alongside nuts, cheeses, and fruits.

Sparkling Water or Punch

Serve with a light, fruity drink to balance the richness.

Coffee or Espresso

The creamy sweetness pairs beautifully with bold coffee.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Chop and sprinkle the fudge over a bowl of vanilla ice cream for a sundae twist.

Dark Chocolate Treats

Balance the brightness of the fudge with something more intense like dark chocolate truffles.

---

Want More Dessert Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved this Easy Cranberry Orange Fudge, you might enjoy these fun flavor-packed recipes too:

• Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake for the ultimate rich-and-fruity combo.
• Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups for mini bites bursting with citrus.
• Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake when you want indulgence in every layer.
• Magic Lemon Cobbler for a comforting, zesty spoon dessert.
• Whipped Shortbread Cookies that melt in your mouth.

---

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you mix in nuts? Try it with dark chocolate instead? Or maybe added a little orange liqueur for a grown-up version?

I love hearing how you put your own spin on it! Got questions? Drop them below—let’s bake smarter, together.

Explore beautifully curated dessert and snack recipes on Nora Nosh Recipes on Pinterest and find your next flavor obsession!

---

Print

Save this recipe on: