This Cranberry Pistachio Marshmallow Fudge is a delightful twist on the classic sweet treat, perfect for the holiday season. The combination of tart cranberries, crunchy pistachios, and fluffy marshmallows create a festive and flavorful dessert that's as fun to make as it is to eat.
Sweetened condensed milk acts as the base and sweetener, giving the fudge its rich, creamy texture. White chocolate chips melt into the mixture, providing a smooth consistency and sweet flavor. Unsalted butter adds a touch of richness and helps bind the ingredients together. The vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile with a subtle warmth. Mini marshmallows add a delightful chewiness that contrasts with the creaminess of the fudge. Dried cranberries provide a tartness that balances the sweetness and adds a festive touch. Shelled pistachios, roughly chopped, bring a satisfying crunch and a hint of nuttiness. Lastly, a pinch of salt elevates all the flavors, making each bite more complex and delicious.
Start by lining an 8x8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Leave some excess paper on the sides; this will make it easier to lift the fudge out later. In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, white chocolate chips, and butter. Set the heat to low and stir constantly. You’ll want to keep the mixture moving to prevent the chocolate from burning and ensure everything melts smoothly together.
Once melted and smooth, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, making sure they are well incorporated. Now, quickly fold in the mini marshmallows, dried cranberries, and chopped pistachios. Be gentle but efficient here — you want to distribute these evenly without letting the marshmallows completely melt.
Pour the mixture into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Place the pan in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is firm. Once set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan. Cut it into squares and get ready to enjoy!
This fudge makes a lovely addition to a holiday dessert platter, paired with other seasonal treats like gingerbread cookies or peppermint bark. It also makes a delightful gift — just wrap a few squares in a decorative tin or box.