No-Bake Strawberry Fudge Squares

These No-Bake Strawberry Fudge Squares are a vibrant and creamy treat that brings together the sweetness of white chocolate and the tangy zest of real strawberries. Set atop a buttery graham cracker crust, the smooth fudge layer chills to a perfect consistency, making it an ideal dessert for warm weather or any occasion where you want a pop of color and flavor without turning on the oven.

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The secret to the velvety texture is the combination of white chocolate and sweetened condensed milk, which creates a rich base that carries the strawberry flavor beautifully. By using freeze-dried strawberry powder, you achieve a deep flavor and bright color without adding excess moisture, ensuring the fudge stays firm and sliceable.

Ingredients

• 200 g digestive biscuits or graham crackers, finely crushed
• 100 g unsalted butter, melted
• 200 g white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
• 395 g (1 can) sweetened condensed milk
• 50 g freeze-dried strawberries, ground to a fine powder (or 100 g fresh strawberries, puréed and strained)
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 1–2 drops pink or red gel food coloring (optional)
• Optional Garnish: Fresh strawberry slices, extra freeze-dried strawberry pieces or coarse sugar crystals

Instructions

Step 1

Line a 20 cm (8-inch) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a 2–3 cm overhang on two sides for easy removal.

Step 2

In a large bowl, combine crushed biscuits and melted butter. Stir until all crumbs are moistened and the mixture holds together when pressed.

Step 3

Press the crumb mixture firmly into the prepared pan in an even layer. Chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes.

Step 4

Place white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a medium heatproof bowl. Set the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler) and stir gently until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.

Step 5

Remove from heat. Stir in freeze-dried strawberry powder (or strained purée), vanilla extract, salt, and food coloring if using. Mix until fully combined and the color is uniform.

Step 6

Pour the strawberry fudge mixture over the chilled crust. Spread evenly with a spatula to reach all corners.

Step 7

Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, or until the fudge layer is firm to the touch.

Step 8

Lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Place on a cutting board and slice into 16 squares with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts.

Step 9

Garnish each square with a fresh strawberry slice or extra freeze-dried strawberry pieces, if desired. Serve chilled or slightly softened at room temperature.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Store these squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For the best fudgy texture, let them stand at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the white chocolate base to soften just enough to melt in your mouth.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a dairy-free alternative, substitute the dairy-free versions of white chocolate and coconut-based condensed milk. You can also vary the strawberry intensity by adjusting the amount of freeze-dried powder or create a marbled berry effect by swirling in a spoonful of crushed raspberries before the fudge sets.

Serviervorschläge

Garnish each square with a fresh strawberry slice or a sprinkle of extra strawberry powder right before serving. These squares look elegant served on a white platter, and they pair wonderfully with a cup of herbal tea or a cold glass of milk.

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With their delightful crunch and creamy, fruit-filled center, these No-Bake Strawberry Fudge Squares are sure to become a favorite. They offer a sophisticated twist on traditional fudge that is both easy to make and impossible to resist.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?

Yes, though the texture will differ. Use 100g fresh strawberries puréed and strained, but note this adds moisture and may require longer chilling time to achieve proper fudge consistency.

→ How long do these need to chill before serving?

Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours until the fudge layer feels firm when touched gently. For cleanest slicing, chill overnight before cutting.

→ Can I make these dairy-free?

Substitute dairy-free white chocolate chips and coconut condensed milk. Use coconut oil or vegan butter in the crust. The texture remains creamy and sliceable.

→ What's the best way to get clean cuts?

Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry between each cut. Alternatively, let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing for cleaner edges.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Yes, freeze in an airtight container between parchment layers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator for 4 hours or at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.

→ Why use digestive biscuits vs graham crackers?

Both work perfectly—digestives have a slightly sweeter, buttery profile while grahams add cinnamon notes. Choose based on preference or regional availability.