Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge

If you love the warm, sweet, and tangy flavors of a classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake, you’re going to flip over this fudge version. Imagine the buttery, caramelized goodness of pineapple and maraschino cherries, combined with the smooth, creamy richness of fudge—each bite is like a mini vacation to dessert paradise! The best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make and doesn’t require any baking, making it a perfect treat for anyone who loves quick, no-fuss desserts.

This Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge is a fun twist on a classic, and once you make it, it will quickly become a go-to favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, giving it as a homemade gift, or just indulging in a little sweetness, trust me—this fudge will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Why You’ll Love Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge

A Fun Twist on a Classic

If you’re a fan of Pineapple Upside Down Cake, this fudge will feel like a fun, bite-sized version of the beloved cake. It brings together the same tropical flavors, but in a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth fudge form.

No Baking Required

This recipe is perfect if you want to create something impressive but don’t feel like heating up the oven. With just a few simple steps, you can make this delicious fudge in no time.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a holiday, a birthday, or just a sweet treat for the weekend, this fudge is always a crowd-pleaser. The vibrant flavors and fun presentation make it perfect for both casual get-togethers and special events.

Easy to Customize

You can easily tweak this fudge to fit your taste preferences! Add a little more pineapple, throw in some chopped pecans, or experiment with different kinds of fruit for a fun variation.

Ingredients

For the Fudge:

• White Chocolate Chips: The creamy base for the fudge, creating a rich, smooth texture.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and creaminess to the fudge, giving it that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Pineapple: For that signature tangy sweetness. Use crushed pineapple, well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the fudge.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps to bring everything together.
• Maraschino Cherries: The iconic topping for a Pineapple Upside Down Cake, chopped up and added to the fudge for a burst of sweetness and color.

For the Topping:

• Pineapple Chunks or Rings: You can use either fresh pineapple chunks or canned pineapple for the topping.
• Chopped Maraschino Cherries: For that extra pop of color and flavor, and to make it even more like the traditional cake.
• Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel adds an extra layer of sweetness and ties everything together perfectly.

(Note: Exact measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Line a square or rectangular baking dish (8×8 or 9×9 works great) with parchment paper or wax paper. This will make it easy to lift out the fudge once it’s set.

Step 2: Melt the Fudge Base

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk together. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Add in the butter and stir until it melts and becomes incorporated.

Step 3: Add Pineapple and Cherries

Once your fudge base is ready, gently stir in the drained crushed pineapple and chopped maraschino cherries. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep the fruit chunks intact.

Step 4: Pour and Set

Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Use a spatula to smooth the top. Now comes the fun part—arrange your pineapple chunks or rings on top of the fudge for that signature Pineapple Upside Down Cake look.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Place the fudge in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or until it’s fully set and firm to the touch. This helps the fudge keep its shape when cut into squares.

Step 6: Drizzle with Caramel and Serve

Once the fudge has set, drizzle it with some caramel sauce for that extra indulgent touch. Slice it into squares and enjoy!

How to Serve Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge

Serve as a Sweet Treat

This fudge is perfect as a sweet snack on its own. Whether you’re watching a movie, hosting friends, or just indulging, it’s a quick, satisfying treat.

Great for Parties and Gatherings

Bring this fudge to your next party, and you’ll be the hit of the night. Its tropical flavors and gorgeous appearance make it a fun addition to any dessert table.

Gift Idea

Wrap a few pieces of this fudge in parchment paper and tie them with a ribbon for a cute, homemade gift. It’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just to show someone you care!

Additional Tips

Don’t Overload with Pineapple

Be sure to drain the pineapple well before adding it to the fudge. Too much moisture can affect the texture of the fudge, so it’s important to get rid of the excess liquid.

Use High-Quality White Chocolate

The better the white chocolate, the creamier your fudge will be. Opt for high-quality white chocolate chips or bars for the best result.

Chill Thoroughly

For best results, let the fudge chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours to ensure it sets properly and holds its shape when sliced.

Add a Crunchy Element

If you want a little extra texture, sprinkle some crushed nuts (like pecans or walnuts) over the top before refrigerating. The nuts will add a nice contrast to the creamy fudge.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition for 1 square (based on 16 squares per batch):

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 18g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 30mg

(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients used and portion size.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of white chocolate?

A1: Yes, you can! Using milk chocolate chips will change the flavor profile, but it’ll still be delicious. The fudge will be a bit sweeter, but it’ll work great.

Q2: Can I make this fudge without the maraschino cherries?

A2: Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of maraschino cherries, you can skip them or replace them with dried cherries, raisins, or even fresh berries.

Q3: Can I freeze this fudge?

A3: Yes! Store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the fridge before serving for best texture.

Q4: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple?

A4: Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Just make sure to cut it into small pieces and drain it well to avoid extra moisture in the fudge.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?

A5: Store any leftover fudge in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Q6: Can I make this fudge without sweetened condensed milk?

A6: Sweetened condensed milk is a key ingredient for achieving the fudge’s creamy consistency. If you want a substitute, you could try evaporated milk and add sugar, but the texture might not be the same.

Q7: Can I make this fudge in a different pan size?

A7: Sure! You can use a larger or smaller pan, but keep in mind that the thickness of the fudge will vary. Adjust the chill time accordingly to ensure it sets properly.

Q8: Can I add nuts to the fudge?

A8: Yes! Chopped pecans or walnuts would pair wonderfully with the tropical flavors. Sprinkle them on top or mix them into the fudge before setting.

Q9: What other fruits can I use in this fudge?

A9: You could try using other tropical fruits like mango, coconut, or even peach to give the fudge a different twist.

Q10: Can I make this fudge in advance for a party?

A10: Definitely! This fudge is perfect for making ahead of time and storing in the fridge for a couple of days. It’s easy to slice and serve when you’re ready.

Conclusion

This Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge is the perfect mix of tropical sweetness, creamy fudge, and fun presentation. It’s so easy to make, and even easier to eat! Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing it with friends and family, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy the sweet, indulgent flavors with no baking required—what’s not to love?

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