If you’re searching for a showstopping sweet treat that’s equal parts cheerful and decadent, Strawberry Pecan Fudge will absolutely steal your heart. This no-bake delight marries creamy white chocolate with bright strawberry flavor and the irresistible crunch of pecans, all wrapped up in a blush-pink hue. Every bite feels like a little celebration, making it perfect for parties, gifting, or just a joyful pick-me-up. You’re about to fall in love with a fudgy, fruity confection that’s as easy to make as it is unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 package (3 oz) strawberry-flavored gelatin
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Additional:
- Pink or red food coloring (optional)
- Butter or nonstick spray for greasing
How to Make Strawberry Pecan Fudge
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Start with an 8×8-inch baking pan. First, line it with parchment paper, making sure the edges hang over for easy lifting later. Give the paper a light coating of butter or nonstick spray—you’ll thank yourself when it’s time to slice the fudge! This easy prep step ensures every piece pops out cleanly (with no crumbling or sticking).
Step 2: Melt the White Chocolate and Milk
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously—not vigorously, just an easy swirl—until the chocolate chips melt and the mixture becomes silky smooth. Low heat is key here: patience pays off with delightfully creamy fudge, without any risk of burning or seizing the chocolate.
Step 3: Add Strawberry Flavor and Color
Once your chocolate base is perfectly melted, take the saucepan off the heat. Sprinkle in the strawberry gelatin powder and pour in the vanilla extract, then stir until no streaks remain. If you’re craving that gorgeous, bold strawberry hue, add a couple drops of food coloring at this stage. Keep mixing until everything is evenly blended and glowing with pink promise.
Step 4: Fold in the Pecans
Now it’s time for the fun part: toss in those chopped pecans and fold gently with a spatula. Pecans bring out a nutty warmth and a delightful crunch with every bite. Make sure they’re evenly dispersed so every square of fudge has pecans peeking through.
Step 5: Pour and Set
Pour the glossy Strawberry Pecan Fudge mixture into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Let it cool at room temperature for about 2 hours to start setting up, and then finish chilling in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This sets the fudge to the perfect texture; trust the waiting, it’s worth it!
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once your fudge is fully set and firm to the touch, lift it out using the parchment paper. A hot knife makes for the cleanest, smoothest cuts—just run your knife under hot water, wipe it dry, then slice the fudge into 16 perfect, pretty squares. Your Strawberry Pecan Fudge is ready to wow everyone lucky enough to snag a piece!
How to Serve Strawberry Pecan Fudge
Garnishes
When it comes to presentation, there’s so much fun to be had! Dust your fudge squares with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a snowy touch, or top each piece with a tiny strawberry slice or an extra pecan half. These little flourishes take your Strawberry Pecan Fudge from sweet to spectacular, making them just as lovely as they are delicious.
Side Dishes
While Strawberry Pecan Fudge is a star solo, it pairs beautifully with simple sides. Try serving alongside a bowl of fresh mixed berries for a burst of tartness or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. It also plays well as part of a dessert tray with other bite-sized sweets for parties and gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get a bit whimsical, cut your Strawberry Pecan Fudge into fun shapes using small cookie cutters—hearts, stars, or whatever fits your celebration. Stack squares in festive treat boxes for an edible gift, or skewer pieces with fresh fruit on appetizer picks for a twist on the classic platter. However you share them, these bites promise to bring joy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
One of the best things about Strawberry Pecan Fudge is how beautifully it keeps. Store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh and flavorful for up to a week. Layer parchment or wax paper between pieces to keep them from sticking, and your fudge will stay tidy and tempting.
Freezing
For longer storage, this fudge freezes wonderfully! Arrange pieces in a freezer-safe container, separated by sheets of parchment. Seal tightly and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw the fudge in the fridge overnight—the texture will remain rich and creamy.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so there’s really no reheating required. If you prefer a softer texture, you can set a piece out at room temperature for 10–15 minutes. There’s no need for the microwave; a little patience brings it to the perfect texture for nibbling.
FAQs
Can I use a different nut instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work beautifully in place of pecans. Feel free to use your favorite nut, or even a mix. Just keep the total amount to about one cup for the ideal fudge-to-nut ratio.
Do I have to use food coloring?
Nope! The strawberry gelatin gives a lovely light pink hue on its own. The food coloring simply deepens the color if you want an extra-vibrant look—totally up to your personal style.
Can I double the recipe?
You sure can. If you’re making Strawberry Pecan Fudge for a crowd, double all the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust chilling time as needed to make sure it’s completely set before slicing.
What’s the best way to slice the fudge neatly?
For bakery-worthy squares, run a sharp knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and slice. Clean the knife between cuts for the tidiest pieces. This helps the fudge release smoothly with crisp, beautiful edges.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Strawberry Pecan Fudge is naturally gluten-free, as all the ingredients are free from gluten. Just ensure your strawberry gelatin and vanilla extract are from reputable, gluten-free sources to be extra cautious.
Final Thoughts
There’s a special sort of joy that comes from sharing something as delightful as Strawberry Pecan Fudge—it’s bright, beautiful, and so deliciously simple to create. I hope you’ll give it a try and let it add some sweet, happy moments to your table and your celebrations. Enjoy every creamy, nutty, strawberry-swirled bite!
Print
Strawberry Pecan Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the sweet and fruity flavors of this delectable Strawberry Pecan Fudge. Creamy white chocolate combined with the essence of strawberry, crunchy pecans, and a hint of vanilla make this easy-to-make treat a delightful dessert option.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 package (3 oz) strawberry-flavored gelatin
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Additional:
- Pink or red food coloring (optional)
- Butter or nonstick spray for greasing
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- Melt Ingredients: In a saucepan over low heat, melt white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Add Flavors: Stir in strawberry gelatin and vanilla extract. Add food coloring if desired.
- Combine: Fold in chopped pecans and pour the mixture into the pan.
- Cool and Chill: Let the fudge cool at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator until firm.
- Serve: Cut into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute walnuts or almonds for the pecans.
- For a smoother finish, use a hot knife to cut the fudge.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
