If you have a soft spot for nostalgic desserts that combine rich, creamy sweetness with vibrant tropical flavors, then you are going to adore this Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge Recipe. This delightful treat takes the classic vibes of pineapple upside down cake and transforms them into a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth fudge that’s perfect for sharing or savoring any time you want a little burst of sunshine and comfort in one bite. The harmony of white chocolate, tangy pineapple, and those iconic maraschino cherries makes every square a celebration of flavor and texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key for this recipe, and luckily, each one is simple but essential. Every component plays a specific role, whether it’s building the creamy texture, enhancing the sweetness, or adding that unmistakable pineapple cake character you love.
- White chocolate chips: Provide the smooth, creamy base that melts perfectly for a rich fudge texture.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds luscious sweetness and moisture, ensuring the fudge sets just right.
- Unsalted butter: Balances the sweetness while contributing to a silky mouthfeel.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix: Helps thicken the fudge and adds a mellow vanilla undertone.
- Powdered sugar: Boosts the sweetness and assists the fudge in holding its shape.
- Vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor profile with warm, aromatic notes.
- Crushed pineapple (well-drained): Brings tangy tropical brightness and a bit of texture to every bite.
- Maraschino cherries (halved and patted dry): Adds that classic pineapple upside down cake pop of color and sweetness.
How to Make Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly greasing it. This ensures your fudge will release easily once set, making slicing and serving a breeze without any sticky mess.
Step 2: Melt the Fudge Base
In a saucepan set over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Stir constantly until everything has melted together into a glossy, smooth mixture. Patience is key here to avoid burning the chocolate and to achieve that perfect silky texture.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
Once your base is beautifully melted, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the instant vanilla pudding mix, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until everything is combined and the fudge batter becomes thick and creamy, ready to take on the tropical additions.
Step 4: Add the Fruit
Gently fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple and halved maraschino cherries. Be careful not to overmix here; you want those bursts of fruit distributed evenly without breaking them down completely. This step is what truly turns this into the Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge Recipe you’ll fall in love with.
Step 5: Set the Fudge
Pour the luscious mixture into your prepared dish and smooth the surface with a spatula. Pop it into the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to let it firm up completely. This waiting game builds the perfect texture and flavor concentration.
Step 6: Slice & Serve
After your fudge has set, use the parchment paper edges to lift it out of the dish and place it on a cutting board. Slice into 16 even squares for perfect serving portions. Keep them chilled and enjoy a tropical-inspired fudge treat anytime.
How to Serve Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your fudge presentation by adding a few extra maraschino cherry halves or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes on top. These add both visual appeal and a subtle crunch that complements the creamy fudge beautifully.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs wonderfully with a simple cup of black coffee or an herbal tea to balance the sweetness, or alongside fresh fruit for a light contrast. It’s perfect as a part of a dessert platter with other tropical or vanilla-flavored sweets.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge Recipe in a decorative box or mason jar as gifts. You can also layer it in small clear cups with whipped cream and fresh pineapple chunks for an elegant mini dessert parfait.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. It will stay moist and flavorful for up to one week, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert for busy days or last-minute celebrations.
Freezing
If you want to keep your fudge longer, you can freeze it. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When stored properly, the fudge can last up to 2 months without losing its wonderful flavor or texture.
Reheating
Since this fudge is best served chilled, reheating isn’t necessary. However, if you prefer it a little softer, let the fudge sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly without melting it completely.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned crushed pineapple?
Absolutely! Just make sure to finely crush and drain the fresh pineapple very well to avoid adding too much moisture to the fudge, which could affect the texture.
Is it possible to substitute white chocolate chips with another type of chocolate?
While white chocolate chips are ideal for this fudge’s creamy sweetness and color, you can try milk chocolate for a different flavor profile, though it will alter the traditional pineapple upside down cake feel.
How long does the fudge need to set in the fridge?
Refrigerate the fudge for at least 4 hours to ensure it is fully set and easy to slice. For best results, overnight chilling works perfectly.
Can I make this fudge without the instant vanilla pudding mix?
The pudding mix helps with texture and firmness, so omitting it may result in a softer fudge. If you don’t have it, you could try adding a little extra powdered sugar or corn syrup, but the texture will vary.
Is this Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge Recipe suitable for gift-giving?
Definitely! Its beautiful look, tropical flavors, and rich texture make it an impressive and thoughtful homemade gift that everyone will appreciate.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge Recipe, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire. The way it captures the essence of classic pineapple upside down cake in a creamy fudge form is pure magic. Whether you’re sharing with family, gifting friends, or simply indulging yourself, this fudge is a vibrant, sweet reminder that sometimes the best treats come from the simplest ingredients and a little love.
Print
Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge recipe transforms the classic dessert flavors into a rich, creamy fudge. Combining melted white chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, instant vanilla pudding mix, and a touch of vanilla extract, this no-bake treat is enhanced by crushed pineapple and maraschino cherries, providing a delightful fruity twist. Perfectly set in the fridge, this fudge slices into luscious squares ideal for sharing or indulging during any occasion.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Fruit Topping
- ½ cup crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 8–10 maraschino cherries, halved and patted dry
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it. This will ensure easy removal of the fudge once set.
- Melt the Fudge Base: In a saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully melted, forming the creamy base for your fudge.
- Mix Ingredients: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the instant vanilla pudding mix, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly to create a consistent, smooth batter.
- Add the Fruit: Gently fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple and the halved, patted-dry maraschino cherries. Distribute the fruit evenly without breaking up the cherries too much.
- Set the Fudge: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the surface with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until the fudge is firm and set.
- Slice & Serve: Once the fudge is fully set, lift it out using the parchment paper edges, cut into 16 squares, and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to avoid excess moisture that can affect fudge texture.
- Use parchment paper to line the pan for easy removal and clean cutting.
- Refrigeration time is important for the fudge to properly set; do not skip or shorten this step.
- For a more intense pineapple flavor, consider soaking the crushed pineapple in a teaspoon of rum or pineapple juice before folding in.
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
