Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares

Name: Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 100g unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved; Powdered sugar; Chopped nuts

Highlighted under: Oven Meals

I absolutely love indulging in rich and comforting desserts, and these Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares are an irresistible treat! The combination of dark chocolate and juicy cherries creates a flavor explosion that I can't get enough of. Plus, these squares are surprisingly easy to make, perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in. With a few simple ingredients, I can whip up this decadent dessert that satisfies my sweet tooth and impresses my friends and family. Trust me, you won't want to miss out on these fudgy delights!

Created by

Honor Blackwell

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:47:35.161Z

When I first made these Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares, I was amazed at how quickly they came together. I melted dark chocolate with butter, which created a smooth texture that perfectly complemented the tartness of fresh cherries. Adding a pinch of sea salt elevated the flavors; it's a small step but made a remarkable difference!

Every bite of these squares is a perfect balance of sweetness and richness. I discovered that allowing them to chill in the fridge not only makes them easier to cut but also enhances the chocolate flavor. Serve them chilled, and watch them disappear!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with sweet cherries
Creamy texture that practically melts in your mouth
Perfect for sharing at parties or keeping all to yourself

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredient of these Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares is undoubtedly the dark chocolate. It not only provides a deep, rich flavor but also contributes to the fudginess of the squares. Opt for high-quality chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for the best results. The bitterness of the chocolate balances beautifully with the sweetness of the cherries, creating a harmonious flavor experience.

Butter plays a crucial role in achieving the creamy texture that makes these squares so indulgent. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness in your dessert, ensuring that it doesn't overpower the other flavors. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider substituting with vegan butter or coconut oil, keeping in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor.

Baking Tips for Success

When baking the fudge squares, it's essential to avoid overmixing the batter once you add the flour. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of the desirable fudgy consistency. Mix until just combined; some lumps are perfectly fine. You want to achieve a thick batter that still has a bit of moisture when you pull it out of the oven, as it will continue to set as it cools.

Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different. The squares should bake until the edges look firm and the center appears slightly underbaked, about 20 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating the perfect fudgy texture. If you overbake, you'll lose that decadent melt-in-your-mouth quality!

Ingredients

For the Fudge:

200g dark chocolate, chopped
100g unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved

For Garnish (Optional):

Powdered sugar
Chopped nuts

Instructions

Prepare the Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a small overhang for easy removal.

Melt the Chocolate and Butter

In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and butter. Melt them over a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring until smooth.

Mix the Batter

Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the sugar, followed by the eggs one at a time. Add the vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the flour and sea salt until just combined. Fold in the halved cherries.

Bake the Squares

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Let the squares cool in the pan for 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Slice into squares and dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content. You can also substitute dried cherries if fresh ones aren't available.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Cherry Fudge Squares can be made ahead of time, making them an ideal dessert for parties or gatherings. After cutting them into squares, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, though note that refrigeration can slightly alter their texture, making them less fudgy.

If you want to keep these squares for an extended period, consider freezing them. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for about an hour or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for that freshly baked taste.

Delicious Variations

Feel free to customize these fudge squares to suit your taste. You can easily incorporate different fruits, such as raspberries or diced strawberries, for a delightful twist. Nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, can be mixed in for added crunch, complementing the chewy texture of the cherries beautifully.

For a more indulgent version, consider adding a swirl of cream cheese or peanut butter to the batter before baking. This addition will offer a rich contrast to the chocolate and cherry flavors, making for an even more decadent dessert experience. Experimenting with different chocolate types, such as milk or white chocolate, can also yield delicious results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but it will create a sweeter flavor. Adjust the sugar if needed.

→ How do I store the fudge squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these fudge squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well for up to three months. Just wrap them tightly before freezing.

→ What can I use as a substitute for butter?

You can use coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative in equal amounts.