Introduction
Easy Fruity Marshmallow Fudge is a fun, colorful, and delicious treat that combines the creamy texture of fudge with the light and fluffy consistency of marshmallows and the natural sweetness of dried fruit. This no-bake dessert is incredibly simple to make and requires only a handful of ingredients. It’s perfect for all ages, offering both a sweet and tangy experience, thanks to the combination of creamy white chocolate or milk chocolate, marshmallows, and fruity additions. The best part is that it’s versatile, so you can experiment with different types of fruit or nuts, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion—from parties to casual snacks. This fudge is easy to prepare, requires minimal effort, and will leave your guests or family members raving about it. Whether you’re looking to whip up something sweet for the holidays or just for an afternoon treat, this fruity marshmallow fudge is sure to please.
The History of
Fudge has a long and delightful history that dates back to the late 19th century in the United States. It’s said to have originated in the 1880s when a batch of caramel “fudged” (i.e., failed) and turned out to be a soft, creamy consistency instead of a firm caramel. The recipe quickly caught on, and soon, fudge became a popular confection at parties and social gatherings. Over the years, various flavors and twists on the classic fudge have emerged, from chocolate to peanut butter and fruit-infused varieties. The idea of incorporating marshmallows into fudge came later, adding a fun and light texture to the treat. The fruity version of fudge became popular as an easy way to infuse fresh or dried fruit into the already sweet treat, creating a balance of flavors and making it a great option for those who enjoy the combination of rich and fruity tastes.
Ingredients Breakdown
To make Easy Fruity Marshmallow Fudge, you’ll need only a few basic ingredients. The core ingredient is condensed milk, which gives the fudge its creamy texture. You’ll also need a good-quality white chocolate or milk chocolate for the fudge base—both melt beautifully and provide a rich flavor. Mini marshmallows are crucial for that signature fluffy, light texture. For the fruity element, you can choose from a wide variety of dried fruits such as cranberries, raisins, chopped dried apricots, or even freeze-dried strawberries. Some versions may include chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios, which add a crunchy contrast to the soft fudge. Lastly, you may want to include a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness, making every bite a perfect blend of flavors. These ingredients come together to form a rich, melt-in-your-mouth fudge with a hint of tartness from the fruit, giving it a delightful complexity.
Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Begin by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to ensure easy removal later.
- In a medium saucepan, melt 400g of white chocolate or milk chocolate with one can (395g) of sweetened condensed milk over low heat. Stir continuously to ensure the chocolate melts evenly and doesn’t burn.
- Once the chocolate mixture is smooth and fully combined, remove the saucepan from the heat and fold in 2 cups of mini marshmallows and 1 ½ cups of chopped dried fruits (such as cranberries, raisins, and apricots). For added texture, you can also add a handful of chopped nuts if you like.
- Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Refrigerate the fudge for at least 3 to 4 hours or until fully set and firm.
- Once set, remove the fudge from the fridge and cut it into small squares. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Tips for the Perfect Easy Fruity Marshmallow Fudge
To ensure the fudge turns out perfectly, make sure to melt the chocolate and condensed milk slowly over low heat. This will help prevent the chocolate from seizing or burning. Stir the mixture constantly to keep it smooth. When adding the marshmallows, don’t fold them in too aggressively; you want to maintain that fluffy texture. If you prefer a firmer fudge, you can add a little more chocolate or reduce the amount of marshmallows. If you’re using dried fruit, be sure to chop them into small pieces so they distribute evenly throughout the fudge. The fruit should be chewy but not too large, as this can make cutting the fudge difficult. Lastly, if you find the fudge too sweet, you can add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors and enhance the sweetness of the fruit.
Variations and Customizations
While this recipe calls for white chocolate and dried fruit, there are plenty of variations and customizations you can try. For a richer flavor, substitute milk chocolate or dark chocolate instead of white chocolate. You could even experiment with different types of marshmallows—flavored marshmallows such as strawberry or lemon can add an interesting twist. For those who enjoy a more tropical version, adding dried pineapple, mango, or coconut flakes could bring a whole new flavor profile to your fudge. You can also change the dried fruit mix based on your preference, using dried blueberries, cherries, or even chopped dried figs. If you like a bit of crunch, roasted nuts like cashews, walnuts, or pecans can be added. For a vegan version, swap out the sweetened condensed milk with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut condensed milk, and use dairy-free chocolate.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
While Easy Fruity Marshmallow Fudge is a delicious treat, it’s important to consider its nutritional value. The fudge is high in sugar due to the condensed milk and chocolate, which provides a significant amount of calories in a small serving. The dried fruits do add some nutritional benefits, such as fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, but the overall sugar content should be taken into account. If you’re looking to make this treat a little healthier, try using dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate, as it contains less sugar and is rich in antioxidants. Additionally, you could reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk or try a low-sugar alternative. If you’re concerned about the fat content, you could opt for a reduced-fat chocolate. This fudge is not suitable for those on a low-sugar or low-carb diet, but when enjoyed in moderation, it can be a satisfying and indulgent treat.
FAQ
Q: Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?
A: Fresh fruit is not recommended because it contains more moisture, which can cause the fudge to become too soft. Dried fruit is best for this recipe as it holds its shape and adds the right texture.
Q: How long does the fudge last?
A: The fudge will last for up to 1 week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you want to keep it for a longer period, you can freeze the fudge for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I use a different type of chocolate?
A: Yes, you can substitute white chocolate with milk or dark chocolate depending on your preference. Dark chocolate will give the fudge a richer, less sweet flavor.
Q: Can I make this fudge ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The fudge can be made up to 3 days in advance. Just be sure to keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Easy Fruity Marshmallow Fudge
Ingredients
- 1 – 12 oz bag of white chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 – 16 oz container of vanilla frosting
- 2 cups of mini fruit-flavored marshmallows divided
- ½ cup of sprinkles divided
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch pan with foil or parchment paper.
- In a large pan over low to medium heat, melt the white chocolate chips and butter together, stirring until the mixture is smooth and creamy. It should be thick, not runny.
- Remove the lid from the frosting and microwave it for 30 seconds. Pour the melted frosting into the pan and stir until everything is fully melted and the mixture is smooth. Let it cool for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Quickly stir in 1 ½ cups of marshmallows and half of the sprinkles. Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan.
- Top the fudge with the remaining ½ cup of marshmallows and sprinkles. Allow it to set completely before cutting it into squares.
