Orange Chocolate Fudge Recipe – Pecan Cranberry Bliss

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Orange Chocolate Fudge Recipe – Pecan Cranberry Bliss

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a sweet treat that’s just a little bit special. This Orange Chocolate Fudge is exactly that. It’s rich, decadent, and has this amazing burst of citrus that brightens everything up. I first made this for a Diwali gifting exchange, and it was a huge hit – everyone asked for the recipe! It’s surprisingly easy to make, and honestly, it’s become my go-to when I need a little something to cheer up the day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average fudge. The combination of creamy chocolate, tangy orange, crunchy pecans, and chewy cranberries is just… chef’s kiss. It’s perfect for gifting, sharing (or not!), and satisfying those sweet cravings. Plus, it comes together quickly with minimal effort. Seriously, who doesn’t love a recipe like that? It’s a delightful twist on classic fudge, offering a sophisticated flavor profile that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this pecan cranberry bliss:

• 12 oz (approximately 340g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 14 oz (approximately 397g) sweetened condensed milk
• 1.5 tablespoons (approximately 23ml) unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 0.75 teaspoon orange extract
• 0.33 cup (approximately 30g) chopped pecans
• 0.33 cup (approximately 50g) dried cranberries

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec! Using good quality chocolate really makes a difference here. I prefer a semi-sweet chocolate with around 60-70% cacao – it gives a lovely balance of sweetness and depth.

Don’t skimp on the condensed milk either! A full-fat condensed milk will give you the creamiest, most luxurious fudge.

And the orange? Oh, the orange! Freshly grated orange zest is essential. It provides a vibrant, authentic flavor that bottled zest just can’t match. A little orange extract boosts that flavor even further. Trust me on this one!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s super simple, I promise.

1. First, line an 8×8-inch square pan with aluminum foil, leaving some overhang on the sides. This makes it so much easier to lift the fudge out later. Then, lightly grease the foil with non-stick spray – no one wants stuck fudge!
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter and chocolate chips. Stir constantly until everything is melted and smooth. Be patient and don’t let it burn!
3. Pour in the condensed milk and mix, mix, mix until it’s all beautifully combined and super smooth.
4. Now for the magic! Add the orange zest and orange extract, stirring continuously to make sure that lovely orange flavor is evenly distributed.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Gently fold in the chopped pecans and dried cranberries.
6. Pour the mixture into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle a little extra orange zest and a few cranberries on top for a pretty garnish.
7. Pop the pan into the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until the fudge is firm. I usually leave it overnight for best results. Once it’s set, lift it out using the foil overhang, slice into squares, and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Don’t overheat the chocolate! Low and slow is the way to go.
• Folding in the pecans and cranberries gently prevents them from sinking to the bottom.
• For cleaner cuts, use a warm, sharp knife.
• A little sprinkle of sea salt on top really enhances the flavors.

Variations

This recipe is a great base for experimentation! Here are a few ideas:

• Spice Level: Add a tiny pinch (like 1/8 teaspoon) of chili powder for a surprising kick. My friend, Priya, swears by this!
• Festival Adaptations: Package squares in pretty boxes with ribbons for Diwali or Christmas gifting. It’s a thoughtful and delicious present.
• Vegan Adaptation: Swap the butter and condensed milk for vegan alternatives. There are some fantastic vegan condensed milks available now!
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it!

Serving Suggestions

This fudge is amazing on its own with a cup of chai, or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It also makes a lovely addition to a dessert platter. Honestly, it’s good with just about anything!

Storage Instructions

Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. It actually tastes even better after a day or two, as the flavors meld together.

FAQs

1. Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Absolutely! Feel free to use dark chocolate if you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor. Just adjust the amount of condensed milk slightly if needed, as dark chocolate can be less sweet.

2. How can I prevent the fudge from being too sticky?

Make sure you refrigerate it for long enough! At least 4 hours is crucial. Using a good quality condensed milk also helps.

3. Can I substitute the pecans and cranberries with other nuts and dried fruits?

Definitely! Walnuts, almonds, pistachios, cherries, or raisins would all be delicious. Get creative!

4. How long does it take to fully set the fudge?

It takes at least 4 hours, but overnight is best. The fudge will be firm to the touch when it’s ready.

5. Is it possible to make this fudge ahead of time for a party?

Yes! You can make it up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It’s a lifesaver when you’re entertaining.