Once the chocolate is silky smooth, I remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Now, it’s time to fold in those beautiful, finely chopped strawberries. I love how the strawberries peek through the creamy fudge, giving it a lovely pink hue. Pour the mixture into the lined baking dish, spreading it into an even layer using my spatula.
To add just a touch of flair, I like to slice a few whole strawberries and scatter them on top of the fudge before it sets. It makes the fudge look so inviting! Then, I cover it with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for at least four hours, or preferably overnight. This waiting game is always the hardest part for me, as I can’t wait to taste that luscious strawberry fudge!
When the fudge is fully set, I carefully lift it out of the dish using the parchment paper, and slice it into squares. Each bite is a decadent explosion of strawberry goodness mixed with that creamy, white chocolate flavor. It’s a truly delightful treat that comes straight from my heart to yours!
Pro Tips for Best Results
When I first made this recipe, I noticed that the strawberries can release moisture, which may affect the fudge’s texture. To counter this, I recommend patting the chopped strawberries dry with paper towels before folding them into the mixture. This simple step can make a big difference!
Also, I’ve tried using different brands of white chocolate chips and discovered that some melt better than others. My go-to is the Ghirardelli brand, as it gives the fudge a smooth texture without clumping. I really suggest investing in quality chocolate for the best results.
Lastly, if you want to enhance the strawberry flavor further, consider adding a few drops of strawberry extract along with the vanilla. It intensifies that fruity flavor, making each bite even more irresistible.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I’ve encountered is rushing the melting process. It’s tempting to raise the heat, but trust me—low and slow is the way to go! If you get impatient and crank up the heat, you’ll end up with burnt chocolate, which is just heartbreaking.
Another pitfall to avoid is using too many strawberries. It can be easy to get carried away, but if you add too much fruit, the fudge will become mushy and lose its fudge-like consistency. Stick closely to the ingredient list for the best outcome! (See the next page below to continue…)