Valentine’s Day Strawberry Shortcake Fudge Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as sweet as it is adorable, this Valentine’s Day Strawberry Shortcake Fudge is the treat you need! It’s a perfect combination of creamy, fruity, and just a little bit crunchy, making every bite feel like a special occasion. Whether you’re celebrating with your sweetheart, your family, or your friends, this fudge will be the star of the dessert table.

Why You’ll Love Valentine’s Day Strawberry Shortcake Fudge

This fudge is everything you love about strawberry shortcake, in a fun and easy-to-make fudge form. Here’s why it’s the ultimate Valentine’s Day dessert:

Sweet & Fruity

With the perfect balance of sweet strawberry flavor and a buttery, shortcake-inspired base, this fudge is fruity and indulgent without being overwhelming.

Fun & Festive

The bright pink color and fun chunks of real strawberries make this fudge super festive and perfect for celebrating love and sweetness on Valentine’s Day.

Easy to Make

No baking, no complicated techniques—just a few ingredients and a little patience, and you’ve got a decadent, show-stopping treat.

A Little Bit of Crunch

The addition of shortbread cookies gives the fudge just the right amount of texture contrast, making it not only creamy but also satisfying with every bite.

Ingredients

For the Fudge:

• White chocolate chips: The creamy base for the fudge that makes it sweet and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
• Sweetened condensed milk: Adds richness and helps the fudge set perfectly.
• Butter: Enhances the fudge’s flavor and smoothness.
• Freeze-dried strawberries: These little gems provide the fresh, fruity strawberry flavor without the excess moisture that could ruin the fudge texture.
• Shortbread cookies: Adds a delightful crunch and mimics the traditional shortcake flavor in strawberry shortcake.
• Vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla to round out the flavors and enhance the sweetness.

For the Topping:

• Additional freeze-dried strawberries: For a pretty pop of color and more strawberry flavor on top.
• Crushed shortbread cookies: To sprinkle over the top for an extra layer of crunch and sweetness.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, stirring until well combined. Add the white chocolate chips and stir continuously until the mixture is completely smooth and the chocolate is fully melted.

Step 2: Add the Strawberry Flavor

In a small food processor or blender, pulse the freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder. Add the powdered strawberries to the melted white chocolate mixture, stirring to combine. This will give the fudge its beautiful strawberry flavor and pink color.

Step 3: Add the Shortbread Cookies

Crush the shortbread cookies into small chunks, then fold them into the strawberry mixture. Be sure to reserve a small handful of cookie pieces to sprinkle on top later.

Step 4: Pour Into the Pan

Line a 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour the strawberry shortcake fudge mixture into the pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Gently tap the pan on the counter to smooth the surface.

Step 5: Add the Toppings

Sprinkle the reserved shortbread cookie crumbs and extra freeze-dried strawberry pieces over the top of the fudge, pressing down lightly to help them stick.

Step 6: Set the Fudge

Place the pan in the refrigerator and allow the fudge to set for at least 2-3 hours, or until firm. You can also leave it overnight if you prefer.

Step 7: Cut and Serve

Once the fudge is set, remove it from the fridge and lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper. Use a sharp knife to cut the fudge into small squares.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Serve these sweet little squares of strawberry shortcake fudge to your Valentine or anyone you want to impress with a delicious and festive treat.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 16
Calories per serving: 170
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 2-3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes

How to Serve Valentine’s Day Strawberry Shortcake Fudge

For a Festive Treat

This fudge is perfect for a Valentine’s Day dessert spread! Serve it with other sweet treats like chocolate-dipped strawberries, mini cupcakes, or heart-shaped cookies.

As a Gift

Pack the fudge in a cute jar or a decorative box to give as a homemade Valentine’s gift. It’s a sweet and thoughtful way to show you care!

After Dinner Delight

Pair this fudge with a cup of tea or a glass of bubbly champagne for a light and sweet end to a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner.

Additional Tips

Make Ahead

You can make this fudge ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. It also freezes well if you want to keep some on hand for later!

Try Different Mix-ins

If you love a little extra texture, you can add chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans) or mini marshmallows to the fudge mix before setting it. Just be sure to adjust the amounts to your preference.

No Freeze-Dried Strawberries?

If you can’t find freeze-dried strawberries, you can substitute them with strawberry jam or strawberry extract, but the texture and color might be a little different.

Dairy-Free Version

You can make this fudge dairy-free by using dairy-free white chocolate chips and coconut condensed milk. Just check the labels to make sure they’re suitable for your dietary needs.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use fresh strawberries in this recipe?

A1: Fresh strawberries contain too much moisture, which could affect the texture of the fudge. Stick with freeze-dried strawberries for the best results.

Q2: Can I make this fudge without the shortbread cookies?

A2: You can, but the cookies add a delicious crunch and flavor that’s key to the strawberry shortcake vibe. If you prefer, you could substitute with graham crackers or even crushed vanilla wafers.

Q3: How long does this fudge last?

A3: Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Q4: Can I use a different kind of chocolate for this fudge?

A4: White chocolate works best in this recipe, but you could experiment with milk or dark chocolate for a different flavor profile.

Q5: Can I make this fudge without food coloring?

A5: Yes! The freeze-dried strawberries will still give the fudge a nice pink color, even without added food coloring.

Q6: How can I make this fudge firmer?

A6: If you want a firmer fudge, increase the amount of white chocolate or use less sweetened condensed milk. You can also refrigerate it for a longer period.

Q7: Can I make this recipe into larger fudge squares?

A7: Yes, you can use a larger pan, but keep in mind that the fudge will be thinner and may require less chilling time.

Q8: How can I prevent the shortbread crumbs from sinking to the bottom?

A8: Toss the shortbread crumbs in a little bit of flour or powdered sugar before adding them to the fudge mixture. This helps them stay more evenly distributed.

Q9: Can I use a different type of cookie?

A9: Absolutely! You can substitute with any type of crunchy cookie, like digestive biscuits, vanilla wafer cookies, or even chocolate chip cookies.

Q10: Can I make this fudge without the topping?

A10: Yes! The topping is optional, but it adds a nice extra layer of flavor and texture. You can skip it if you prefer a simpler fudge.

Conclusion

This Valentine’s Day Strawberry Shortcake Fudge is the perfect treat to share with your loved ones. It’s sweet, festive, and oh-so-delicious with its creamy, fruity flavor and crunchy shortbread pieces. Whether you’re gifting it, serving it at a party, or enjoying it as a special treat with your Valentine, this fudge is sure to steal the show. Enjoy the sweetness of Valentine’s Day with every bite!

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