We absolutely adore fusing classic desserts into something irresistible, and our Strawberry Cheesecake Fudge recipe does just that. Imagine the creamy tang of cheesecake swirled with juicy strawberry flavors, all set in a rich fudge base that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
This easy treat draws from timeless American favorites, offering a fresh twist that’s simple to whip up at home. We’ll walk you through the basics so you can create a crowd-pleaser that looks as good as it tastes.
Ingredients
We carefully select premium ingredients to craft our mouthwatering Strawberry Cheesecake Fudge, ensuring each component delivers authentic flavors and a perfect texture. This breakdown makes it simple for us to prepare this crowd-pleasing treat step by step.
For the Fudge Base
To build the rich, creamy foundation of our fudge, we start with these essential ingredients:
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk (full-fat for the creamiest results)
- 2 cups white chocolate chips (high-quality, for smooth melting)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature for easy incorporation)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure, to enhance the base’s depth of flavor)
- A pinch of salt (to balance sweetness and bring out the chocolate notes)
For the Strawberry Swirl
For the vibrant, fruity swirl that adds a burst of tartness to our fudge, we use fresh strawberries and a few key additions:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and chopped, for a natural puree)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (to create a glossy, thickened swirl)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed, to brighten the strawberry flavor and prevent browning)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with a little water, for a thicker consistency that holds its shape)
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened, for a lump-free blend)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (sifted, to avoid graininess and ensure even sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (finely grated, for a zesty citrus undertone)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure, to tie in with the fudge base for cohesive taste)
Tools and Equipment
Before we dive into preparing our Strawberry Cheesecake Fudge, having the right tools on hand ensures a smooth process from melting the fudge base to creating that vibrant strawberry swirl. We recommend these essential items to make the recipe efficient and enjoyable.
Essential Kitchen Tools
To handle the ingredients like sweetened condensed milk, white chocolate chips, and fresh strawberries effectively, gather the following:
- Saucepan: A medium-sized, heavy-bottom saucepan for melting the fudge base ingredients evenly. This helps prevent burning and ensures a creamy texture.
- Mixing Bowls: At least two heatproof mixing bowls—one for combining the cheesecake layer with cream cheese and powdered sugar, and another for the strawberry mixture to keep flavors distinct.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate sets for precise measurements of ingredients like granulated sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, which are crucial for the perfect balance of flavors.
- Whisk and Spatula: A sturdy whisk for blending the cheesecake layer smoothly and a silicone spatula for scraping down sides and folding in the strawberry swirl without air pockets.
- Blender or Food Processor: Ideal for pureeing fresh strawberries into a smooth swirl, enhancing the dessert’s vibrant color and fresh taste.
- Baking Dish or Pan: An 8×8-inch square baking dish lined with parchment paper for setting the fudge, allowing for easy removal and clean cuts.
- Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp knife for chopping strawberries and a stable cutting board to prepare them quickly and safely.
With these tools, we’ll transform our premium ingredients into a decadent treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Instructions
We make crafting our Strawberry Cheesecake Fudge simple and rewarding with these precise steps. Follow along to transform your ingredients into a creamy, strawberry-kissed delight that’s sure to impress.
Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by washing and hulling 2 cups of fresh strawberries, then puree them in a blender until you achieve a smooth, vibrant mixture—set aside 1 cup for the swirl. Soften 8 ounces of cream cheese at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and in separate bowls, measure 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk, 2 cups of white chocolate chips, 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of lemon zest, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. This preparation ensures everything is ready for seamless assembly, highlighting the fresh, tangy notes of strawberries and citrus.
Cook the Fudge
In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, white chocolate chips, and unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir constantly with a whisk until the mixture melts into a glossy, velvety fudge base—this takes about 5-7 minutes to reach a smooth consistency without burning. Once off the heat, quickly mix in the vanilla extract and salt to enhance the rich, buttery sweetness that forms the heart of our irresistible treat.
Assemble the Layers
Pour half of the warm fudge base into your prepared 8×8-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper, spreading it evenly for a solid foundation. In a bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, lemon zest, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until it forms a fluffy, tangy cheesecake layer—gently fold in a few spoonfuls of the strawberry puree for subtle swirls. Top with the remaining fudge base, then drizzle the rest of the strawberry puree on top and use a spatula to create beautiful, marbled patterns that showcase the bright, juicy strawberry flavors against the creamy backdrop.
Chill and Set
Cover the assembled dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until the fudge firms up to a delightful, sliceable texture—overnight yields the best results for a perfectly set, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Once chilled, remove from the dish, cut into 16 even squares, and reveal the glossy, strawberry-infused layers that make this fudge a standout dessert.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the beauties of our Strawberry Cheesecake Fudge recipe is its flexibility for planning ahead, allowing us to create a stunning dessert without last-minute rushes. By preparing components in advance, we preserve the vibrant strawberry swirl and creamy cheesecake layers that make this treat irresistible.
Preparing Components Ahead of Time
We can break down the make-ahead process into simple, efficient steps to ensure everything stays fresh and flavorful:
- Strawberry Puree: Start by pureeing the fresh strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch up to 2 days in advance. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the bright, tangy essence intact, ready to swirl into the fudge for that eye-catching marbled effect.
- Cheesecake Mixture: Soften the cream cheese and blend it with powdered sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla extract up to 1 day ahead. Transfer to a sealed container and chill it in the fridge. When we’re ready to assemble, this step ensures the mixture remains smooth and velvety, enhancing the fudge’s luxurious texture.
- Fudge Base: Prepare the entire fudge base—melting sweetened condensed milk, white chocolate chips, butter, vanilla extract, and salt—up to 3 days before. Let it cool completely, then cover and refrigerate it. Reheat gently on the stove when assembling to maintain its glossy, rich consistency.
Storage and Thawing Tips
For optimal results, we focus on proper storage to lock in the fudge’s decadent creaminess and fresh strawberry notes. Here’s how we handle it:
- Refrigeration: Once assembled and chilled, the full Strawberry Cheesecake Fudge can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
- Freezing for Longer Storage: If we want to extend shelf life, freeze the fudge in portions. Cut into squares, wrap each in parchment paper, and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It keeps well for up to 2 months, preserving the crisp edges and soft center.
To make storage times clear, we summarize them in the table below:
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Method | Maximum Storage Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strawberry Puree | Up to 2 days | Airtight container in fridge | 2 days |
| Cheesecake Mixture | Up to 1 day | Sealed container in fridge | 1 day |
| Fudge Base | Up to 3 days | Covered in fridge | 3 days |
| Assembled Fudge | After chilling | Airtight container in fridge or freezer | 5 days (fridge) or 2 months (freezer) |
Serving After Making Ahead
When it’s time to serve, we thaw frozen fudge in the refrigerator overnight for even defrosting, then bring it to room temperature for 15-20 minutes. This step ensures the silky texture shines through, making each bite as refreshing and indulgent as if it were freshly made. Always use a sharp knife for clean slices to highlight the beautiful layers.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this strawberry cheesecake fudge recipe with you, as it’s a simple way to bring bold flavors and fun into your kitchen. It’s perfect for impressing friends or treating yourself to something special.
Remember, experimenting with this treat lets you create your own twists while enjoying its creamy layers. We’re confident you’ll make it a staple in your dessert lineup, so give it a try and let us know how it turns out!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Fudge?
The key ingredients include sweetened condensed milk, white chocolate chips, unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and salt for the fudge base. For the strawberry swirl, you’ll need fresh strawberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. The cheesecake layer requires cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. These premium components combine to create a rich, flavorful treat.
What tools are needed to make Strawberry Cheesecake Fudge?
You’ll need a medium-sized saucepan for melting the base, heatproof mixing bowls for the mixtures, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a whisk and spatula for blending, a blender or food processor for pureeing strawberries, and an 8×8-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper. These essentials ensure a smooth preparation process.
How do I make Strawberry Cheesecake Fudge?
Start by preparing ingredients like pureeing strawberries and softening cream cheese. Melt the fudge base in a saucepan with condensed milk, white chocolate, and butter. Blend the cheesecake mixture, layer it with the fudge and strawberry puree for a marbled effect, then chill until firm. This easy process yields a delicious, sliceable dessert in about 2-3 hours total.
Can I make Strawberry Cheesecake Fudge ahead of time?
Yes, prepare components like strawberry puree, cheesecake mixture, and fudge base in advance. Store puree and cheesecake in the fridge for up to 2 days, and the fudge base for 1 day. Assemble and chill as needed for flexibility, making it ideal for events.
How should I store and thaw Strawberry Cheesecake Fudge?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, move from freezer to fridge overnight. This keeps the fudge fresh, maintaining its silky texture and vibrant layers for the best taste.
What are some serving suggestions for Strawberry Cheesecake Fudge?
Serve chilled slices as a dessert at parties, topped with fresh strawberries or whipped cream for extra appeal. It’s perfect for gifting, picnics, or as a sweet snack. Pair with coffee or tea to enhance the flavors, ensuring it impresses with its beautiful marbled look and creamy taste.