White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Fudge: A Decadent No-Bake Treat for Any Season

If you’re looking for an effortless, crowd-pleasing dessert that looks as impressive as it tastes, this White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Fudge is your answer. Perfect for holiday parties, edible gifts, or a simple sweet indulgence at home, this no-bake fudge recipe brings together the creamy richness of white chocolate, the tart zing of dried cranberries, and the warm, nutty crunch of toasted pecans.

Even better? You don’t need any candy thermometers, complicated sugar stages, or pastry school credentials. With a handful of ingredients and about 15 minutes of prep, you’ll have a beautiful batch of creamy, melt-in-your-mouth fudge ready to impress.

Who Is This Recipe For?

This recipe is ideal for both beginner bakers and seasoned dessert-makers who want a reliable, quick, and beautiful confection. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, prepping teacher gifts, building a dessert tray, or simply craving something sweet with minimal effort, this fudge has your back.

It’s also incredibly customizable, which makes it perfect for anyone with dietary preferences or who wants to try fun flavor twists (more on that later!).

Why You’ll Love This White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Fudge

• No-Bake Simplicity: Skip the oven. Everything melts together in the microwave or over a double boiler.

• Festive & Flavorful: A beautiful balance of creamy, crunchy, tart, and sweet.

• Perfect for Gifting: Slices beautifully and stores well, making it ideal for holiday boxes or potlucks.

• Quick to Prepare: Just 15 minutes of active prep time, then chill and cut.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to make this stunning treat:

• 3 ½ cups high-quality white chocolate (Ghirardelli bars or chips recommended)

• 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup dried cranberries

• 1 cup toasted pecans, coarsely chopped

Instructions: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

To deepen their flavor, toast the pecans in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes, or until they smell nutty and fragrant. Let them cool, then coarsely chop.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan

Line an 8×8- or 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or foil. Leave an overhang on the sides to make lifting the fudge out easier. If using foil, spray lightly with cooking spray.

Step 3: Melt Chocolate and Milk

In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate and sweetened condensed milk. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until melted and smooth (about 60–90 seconds total). Alternatively, use a double boiler over gently simmering water.

Step 4: Mix It All Together

Stir in vanilla extract, salt, cranberries, and chopped pecans. Mix until evenly combined.

Step 5: Pour and Set

Immediately pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan. Spread evenly with a spatula. Let cool completely at room temperature or place in the fridge for at least 4 hours until firm.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Lift the fudge out of the pan and slice into 20-25 small squares. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan

• Microwave-safe mixing bowl (or a double boiler)

• Spatula or spoon

• Parchment paper or foil

• Knife for chopping and slicing

• Baking sheet (for toasting pecans)

• Oven (for toasting nuts)

Tips, Tricks & Recipe Variations

 Use High-Quality White Chocolate

This recipe relies heavily on the flavor and texture of white chocolate, so use the best you can find. Ghirardelli, Guittard, or Callebaut are excellent choices.

 Swap the Mix-Ins

• Nuts: Try walnuts, almonds, or pistachios in place of pecans.

• Fruit: Swap cranberries for dried cherries, apricots, or blueberries.

• Festive Touch: Add a sprinkle of crushed peppermint or drizzle of dark chocolate over the top before chilling.

 Go Tropical

Replace pecans with macadamia nuts and cranberries with dried pineapple or mango for a tropical twist.

 Make It Marbled

Swirl in a few spoonfuls of melted dark chocolate right before setting for a marbled effect.

How to Store White Chocolate Fudge

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

• Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 2 weeks.

• Freezer: Freeze tightly wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

What to Serve with White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Fudge

Pair this fudge with:

• A glass of bubbly like prosecco or champagne for festive flair

• Strong coffee or espresso to cut through the sweetness

• Dark chocolate truffles or salted caramels for a full dessert board

• Spiced tea or chai for a cozy afternoon treat

This fudge also makes a stunning addition to charcuterie-inspired dessert boards or holiday cookie platters.

FAQ: White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Fudge

Can I use sweetened white chocolate or almond bark?

Yes, but the flavor may be sweeter and less nuanced. If using almond bark, reduce added salt to balance the sweetness.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free white chocolate chips and coconut condensed milk. Skip the butter or use coconut oil to grease the foil.

How long does fudge take to set?

It generally takes at least 4 hours in the fridge. For best texture, chill overnight.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely. Use a 9×13-inch pan if doubling, and ensure your bowl is large enough for mixing.

My fudge turned out grainy—what went wrong?

This may be due to overheating the chocolate or using low-quality chips. Stir gently and heat in short bursts for smooth results.

Final Thoughts: A Foolproof Holiday Favorite

This White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Fudge is everything a dessert should be—decadent, easy, and visually stunning. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll reach for year after year, whether for gifting, entertaining, or simply indulging.