Strawberry Shortcake Fudge

Strawberry Shortcake Fudge is a delightful treat that combines the flavors of classic strawberry shortcake with the rich, creamy texture of fudge. This sweet and fruity dessert gives you the best of both worlds, making it an ideal option for gatherings, picnics, or even a simple afternoon snack. The creamy white chocolate and marshmallow fluff create a soft and velvety texture, while the hints of strawberry and the crunchy Nilla wafers provide delightful contrasts in flavor and texture. This fudge is not only visually appealing with its soft pink hue and sprinkles, but it also satisfies your sweet cravings and transports you to a sunny strawberry field with every bite.

Making this fudge is incredibly easy and requires minimal equipment, making it perfect for novice bakers and experienced cooks alike. The combination of sweetened condensed milk and white chocolate chips gives it a rich sweetness that pairs perfectly with the strawberry Jell-O powder, which adds that quintessential strawberry flavor. The marshmallow creme ensures that the fudge remains soft and chewy, while the Nilla wafers offer a satisfying crunch. You can easily share this treat with family and friends, or keep it all to yourself—you won’t want to share once you taste this delicious fudge!

Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Fudge

• Nonstick cooking spray – to prevent sticking
• 3 ½ cups white chocolate chips – the base for the fudge
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk – adds creaminess and sweetness
• 2 tablespoons strawberry Jell-O powder – for flavor and color
• 1 tablespoon butter – to enhance flavor and texture
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – for an aromatic boost
• Pinch of kosher salt – to balance sweetness
• 1 ½ cups marshmallow crème – adds softness
• 10-14 drops pink food coloring – for a visually appealing hue
• 2 cups Nilla wafers – for texture and flavor
• ¾ cup crushed Nilla wafers for garnish – for extra crunch
• Pink sanding sugar for garnish – to add sparkle

Optional ingredient substitutions

If you want to make some adjustments based on availability or dietary needs, there are some substitutions you can use. For instance, if you can’t find white chocolate chips, you could use yogurt-covered chips or even a dairy-free chocolate alternative. Instead of strawberry Jell-O powder, freeze-dried strawberry powder could work, providing natural flavor. For a different texture, consider using graham cracker crumbs instead of Nilla wafers, or you can simply omit the pink food coloring if you prefer a simpler look.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Fudge

Step 1: Prepare your pan

Start by preparing your baking pan. Line a square 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later. Spray the parchment and the sides of the pan lightly with nonstick cooking spray. This will ensure that your fudge comes out perfectly and does not stick to the sides.

Step 2: Melt the fudge base

In a small saucepan, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, strawberry Jell-O powder, butter, pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of kosher salt. Set the saucepan over medium heat and stir frequently as the mixture heats up. You want to keep stirring until the mixture is melted and smooth, ensuring that all the chocolate chips have fully melted without burning.

Step 3: Add marshmallow crème and color

Once the mixture is smooth, reduce the heat to medium-low. Now, add the marshmallow crème and the pink food coloring. Stir this combination until the marshmallow crème is fully melted and incorporated into the fudge base. The mixture should be creamy and have a lovely pink color. Remove the saucepan from the heat.

Step 4: Layer the fudge

Immediately pour half of the melted fudge mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula. Next, arrange a single layer of Nilla wafers on top of the fudge. Pour the remaining fudge mixture over the top, making sure to cover the wafers completely. Finally, sprinkle the crushed Nilla wafers and some pink sanding sugar on top for decoration. Place the pan in the refrigerator and let it chill for about 2 to 3 hours until the fudge becomes firm. Once set, slice it into squares for serving.

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Fudge

Best ways to serve Strawberry Shortcake Fudge

Strawberry Shortcake Fudge can be served in numerous ways. Cut the fudge into small squares and place them on a decorative plate for a visually appealing dessert display. You can also place each square in decorative cupcake liners to make them even more tempting. For added presentation, drizzle some melted chocolate over the tops or arrange fresh strawberries alongside the fudge.

Serving suggestions or pairings

This fudge pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Consider serving it with a glass of ice-cold milk, a cup of coffee, or even some hot chocolate for a cozy treat. For a more festive touch, it can also be paired with whipped cream, making it an excellent dessert for summer parties or holiday gatherings. Additionally, you could serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a fun and decadent dessert.

How to Store Strawberry Shortcake Fudge

Proper storage methods

To store leftover Strawberry Shortcake Fudge, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a particularly warm climate, it’s better to store the fudge in the refrigerator to prevent it from getting too soft. The fudge can remain fresh and delicious for about 10 days when refrigerated.

Tips for reheating or freezing

If you wish to freeze the fudge, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to label the bag with the date to keep track of freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply remove a piece and let it thaw at room temperature. Avoid reheating the fudge in the microwave, as this can change the texture; instead, let it sit out for a while to soften gently.

Tips to Make Strawberry Shortcake Fudge

Common mistakes to avoid

One common mistake is overheating the chocolate mixture, which can cause it to seize or become grainy. Ensure you keep the heat on medium and stir constantly to avoid this issue. It’s also essential to mix the marshmallow crème well into the fudge to prevent any lumps from forming. Finally, be cautious not to add too much food coloring; start with a few drops and increase as needed for your desired shade.

Helpful tips for better results

To achieve the best results, use high-quality white chocolate chips for a smoother and richer flavor. If you’re using strawberry Jell-O powder, opt for the type that has a strong flavor to ensure the fudge is well balanced and has a true strawberry taste. For added texture, consider folding in some chopped strawberries or even nuts into the fudge mixture right before layering with the Nilla wafers.

Variation of Strawberry Shortcake Fudge

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

While the traditional recipe is delightful, you can take it up a notch by incorporating other flavors. For instance, you could add a layer of chocolate fudge beneath the strawberry fudge for a stunning two-tone effect. Alternatively, consider mixing some toasted coconut into the fudge to enhance the flavor further. Adding a hint of lemon zest can complement the strawberry flavor resulting in a refreshing twist.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

Those with dietary restrictions can still enjoy this fudge by making a few adjustments. For a gluten-free version, ensure that you use gluten-free Nilla wafers or substitute them entirely with gluten-free graham crackers. If you need a dairy-free option, you can use dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut milk instead of sweetened condensed milk. Adventurous bakers may even prefer to experiment with different fruit-flavored gelatin to create various flavored fudges.

FAQs

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If your fudge isn’t coming together as expected, check to see if you’ve melted the chocolate properly. If it seems too thick or isn’t creamy, it may need a bit more stirring or gentle heat to combine the ingredients better. If it has set too quickly, place it back on low heat to melt everything gently, then re-mix.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Strawberry Shortcake Fudge is an excellent make-ahead dessert. You can prepare it up to a week in advance and store it in an airtight container. Its flavors tend to develop and deepen as it sits, so making it a day or two beforehand can enhance your experience.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

You can substitute ingredients based on availability or dietary needs. Use almond milk or another milk alternative instead of sweetened condensed milk. For a different flavor, try raspberry Jell-O powder instead of strawberry. If you don’t have Nilla wafers, any buttery cookie can serve as a suitable alternative. Always get creative with flavors if you feel inspired!

Strawberry Shortcake Fudge is a fun and easy dessert to make, and it’s sure to impress anyone who tries it. With its vibrant colors and delightful flavors, it is a perfect choice for any occasion. Enjoy making, serving, and sharing this delightful treat!

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