If you have a soft spot for nostalgic desserts that are both playful and indulgently sweet, the Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge Recipe is going to capture your heart right away. This delicious treat combines the tropical tang of pineapple and cherries with a creamy white chocolate base to deliver a fudge experience that tastes just like the classic cake, but with a wonderfully rich, melt-in-your-mouth twist. Trust me, once you make this fudge, it will become your go-to dessert for every gathering and cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet bring together the perfect combination of flavors and textures. Each item plays a crucial role in balancing creamy sweetness with fruity brightness, making this recipe surprisingly simple but irresistibly delicious.
- 2 cups white chocolate chips: The creamy foundation of this fudge, providing smooth sweetness and structure.
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk: Adds richness and helps create the fudgy, luscious texture everyone loves.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Gives a silky mouthfeel while enhancing the flavor’s depth without overpowering the fruit.
- 1 small box (3.4 oz) instant pineapple-flavored pudding mix: Introduces that unmistakable pineapple tang and thickens the fudge perfectly.
- 1 cup diced canned pineapple (drained): Boosts the tropical vibe and adds chewy bursts of juicy sweetness.
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries (halved): Their bright color and sweetness complement the pineapple beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: A subtle flavor enhancer that ties all the elements together.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and brightens the overall flavor profile.
How to Make Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
First things first, line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it. This simple step ensures your fudge will come out smoothly after setting, making cutting and serving an absolute breeze.
Step 2: Melt the Base
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir continuously and patiently until everything melts into a silky, smooth mixture. Watching it come together like this is the moment when you know deliciousness is on the way.
Step 3: Add Flavor and Texture
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the pineapple pudding mix, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, whisking until the mixture becomes thick and perfectly blended. This step brings the signature pineapple upside down cake flavor and adds just the right body to your fudge.
Step 4: Fold in the Fruits
Now, carefully fold in the diced pineapple and halved maraschino cherries. This ensures every bite is bursting with fruity surprise—and who doesn’t love a bit of cherry and pineapple goodness in their fudge?
Step 5: Pour and Set
Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. For that lovely, classic look, decorate the top with extra pineapple pieces and cherry halves, pressing them lightly so they peek through the surface. This extra touch adds a bit of flair and sets the stage for your next indulgence.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the fudge for at least 4 hours, or until it’s firm and set. When ready, lift it out of the pan thanks to the parchment paper, cut into small, bite-sized squares, and get ready to enjoy. This chill time is essential for giving the fudge that perfect texture and flavor.
How to Serve Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation, sprinkle a few finely chopped toasted pecans or shredded coconut atop each square before serving. It adds a delightful crunch and a hint of nuttiness that complements the sweet, tropical flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
Serve this fudge alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a tropical fruit salad for a balanced flavor experience. The fudge’s richness pairs beautifully with something crisp and clean, helping to refresh the palate between bites.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging your Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge Recipe squares in a decorative tin or jar tied with a ribbon for a charming gift. You can also layer fudge squares with whipped cream and fresh fruit in mini parfait glasses for an elegant twist at parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and firm. It’ll stay delicious for up to one week, making it perfect for prepping ahead or enjoying throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge Recipe longer, freeze it by wrapping individual pieces in plastic wrap and placing them in a sealed freezer bag. Frozen fudge can last for up to 3 months without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed chilled, but if you want it a little softer, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can change the texture unpredictably.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Fresh pineapple can work, but make sure to drain it very well to prevent excess moisture from thinning the fudge. Canned pineapple is preferred for consistent sweetness and texture.
Is it possible to substitute white chocolate chips?
You can try using white chocolate bars chopped finely, but chips are designed to melt smoothly. Avoid using other types of chocolate to maintain the signature flavor and texture.
How long does it take for the fudge to set?
It typically needs at least 4 hours in the refrigerator to firm up properly. For the best results, chilling overnight ensures it cuts cleanly without sticking.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
This version relies on dairy-based ingredients like butter and sweetened condensed milk, so it’s not vegan. However, you can experiment with vegan butter and sweetened condensed coconut milk alternatives for a dairy-free option.
Why is the pineapple pudding mix important?
The pineapple pudding mix adds concentrated pineapple flavor and helps thicken the fudge. It’s what gives this recipe its unmistakable Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge Recipe vibe, so it’s best not to skip it.
Final Thoughts
If you love desserts that bring comfort, nostalgia, and a little tropical sunshine to your day, you’re going to adore making and sharing this Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge Recipe. It’s easy to prepare, beautiful to serve, and utterly delicious to eat. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a beloved favorite in your dessert rotation!
Print
Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge is a luscious, tropical-inspired treat combining the creamy richness of white chocolate and sweetened condensed milk with the bright flavors of pineapple and maraschino cherries. Featuring a simple no-bake preparation that sets in the refrigerator, this fudge has the nostalgic taste of pineapple upside down cake transformed into a smooth, rich dessert perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 small box (3.4 oz) instant pineapple-flavored pudding mix
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Fruit Mix-Ins and Garnish
- 1 cup diced canned pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, halved
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it to ensure easy removal of the fudge later.
- Melt the Base: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Stir continuously until the mixture is melted completely and smooth with no lumps.
- Add Flavor and Texture: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the instant pineapple-flavored pudding mix, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until the fudge base is fully combined and slightly thickened.
- Fold in the Fruits: Gently fold in the diced pineapple and halved maraschino cherries, distributing the fruit evenly throughout the fudge mixture without breaking them up too much.
- Pour and Set: Transfer the fudge mixture to the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Decorate the top with additional pineapple pieces and cherry halves, pressing them lightly to embed them into the fudge surface.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 4 hours, or until it’s firm enough to cut. Once set, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper and slice into 16 small squares for serving.
Notes
- Ensure the pineapple is well drained to prevent adding extra moisture that could affect fudge setting.
- Use a low heat setting when melting the chocolate to avoid burning or seizing.
- For a firmer fudge, chill longer or overnight.
- You can substitute maraschino cherries with fresh cherries if preferred, but maraschino provide a classic flavor and color.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
