There's something extra special about holiday candy, and this Eggnog Fudge with Cherries and Pistachios is a sweet treat that deserves a spot on your Christmas dessert tray. Creamy, rich, and flavored with classic eggnog, it's a festive fudge that everyone will want to taste.
This recipe reminds me of the candies my Mom used to make around Christmastime. I've always loved recipes that pair creamy fudge with a nutty texture like my Nanny's Brown Sugar Fudge.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
Festive flavor: eggnog brings warm holiday spice notes that make this fudge stand out.
Cheerful colors: bright red cherries and green pistachios make it perfect for Christmas dessert tables.
Easy method: no complicated candy techniques, just a simple boil and stir fudge recipe.
Great gift: package slices of this cherry pistachio eggnog fudge in tins or boxes for holiday gifting.
Key Ingredients for Holiday Fudge
See recipe card below for full list of ingredients and instructions.
- Granulated sugar: creates sweet and smooth base of the fudge.
- Homemade eggnog: adds holiday flavor with its creamy, spiced taste.
- Light corn syrup: prevents sugar crystals, keeping the fudge soft.
- Butter: helps give the fudge a rich, silky finish.
- Pistachios: a nutty crunch that pairs well with eggnog.
- Maraschino cherries: sweet and colorful, they bring holiday cheer to every bite.
- Vanilla extract: enhances the overall flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Use walnuts or pecans instead of pistachios for a different nutty flavor.
- Try dried cranberries in place of maraschino cherries for less sweetness.
- Replace light corn syrup with honey for slightly different texture and flavor.
Variations on Eggnog Fudge
- White chocolate swirl: fold in melted white chocoltae for an extra creamy twist.
- Spiced version: add a pinch of nutmeg and cinnamon to boost the holiday flavor.
- Layered fudge: make half the batch plain eggnog fudge, then top with the cherry-pistachio mix for a layered look.
Tips for Perfect Eggnog Fudge
- Use a thermometer: cook to exactly 238°F for the right texture.
- Dry the cherries: patting them dry keeps excess moisture out of the fudge.
- Stir until matte: keep stirring after adding butter until the shine is gone; that's when it's ready to set.
How to Store
Store eggnog fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Serve With...
This Eggnog Fudge pairs beautifully on a holiday tray alongside Poinsettia Cookies, Candy Cane Cookies, Mint Truffles, and Santa's Whiskers Cookies.
More Holiday Desserts You'll Love
If you enjoy this fudge, you may also like my Cranberry Bliss Bars, Pecan Pie Thumbprints, Eggnog Thumbprints, and Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies.
When you make this recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!
If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating
📖 Recipe
Eggnog Fudge with Cherries and Pistachios
Equipment
- 8.5x4.5 inch loaf pan
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Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup homemade eggnog
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
- ¼ cup pistachios chopped
- ¼ cup maraschino cherries chopped,drained, and patted dry
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Line an 8.5" X 4.5" loaf pan with aluminum foil. Rub butter over the foil. Set aside. In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, eggnog, and corn syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
- Insert a candy thermometer into syrup mixture and cook, stirring occasionally, until thermometer registers 238 degrees (soft boil stage).
- Remove the syrup from the heat and add the butter and vanilla. Stir to combine well and continue stirring until the fudge loses its shine.
- Stir in the cherries and pistachios.
- Transfer the fudge to the prepared loaf pan and allow to set for 4 hours before cutting.
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