Imagine the creamy, silky texture of white chocolate melting in your mouth, paired with the gentle sweetness of ripe pears and the warm, aromatic spice of cardamom.
The delicate sweetness and subtle fragrance of this fudge create a comforting embrace, reminiscent of cozy evenings by the fireplace or a comforting treat after a long day.
This indulgent dessert has become a cherished part of our family gatherings, providing a sweet conclusion to our meals.
Whether you’re wrapping up a busy weeknight dinner or looking for a delightful addition to your Sunday supper, this Melting White Chocolate Pear Fudge with Cardamom is the perfect choice.
I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a lifesaver when unexpected guests arrived, and I needed a quick, impressive dessert. The smiles and compliments were well worth it.
Ready? Let’s cook and create something truly special together!
Why You’ll Love It
- Delivers bold flavor with the aromatic touch of cardamom.
- Uses pantry staples like white chocolate and sweetened condensed milk.
- Incorporates fresh, juicy pears for a delightful texture contrast.
- Requires minimal preparation and cook time for easy dessert-making.
- Stores well in the refrigerator, perfect for make-ahead planning.
Ingredients
- 400 g white chocolate, chopped — finely for even melting
- 395 g sweetened condensed milk — provides sweetness and creaminess
- 1 tsp ground cardamom — adds a warm, aromatic spice
- 1 medium pear, peeled and diced — ripe but firm for texture contrast
- 1 tsp vanilla extract — enhances flavor depth
- 1 tbsp butter — aids in smooth texture
Step-by-Step Method
Prepare the Baking Pan
Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Confirm the paper covers the sides and bottom to prevent sticking.
Set the prepared pan aside until needed. This step guarantees easy removal of the fudge once it’s set.
Melt the Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine chopped white chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and butter.
Use low heat and stir continuously with a wooden spoon. Melt the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
Avoid overheating to prevent the chocolate from seizing.
Incorporate Flavors
Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the ground cardamom and vanilla extract.
Mix thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the melted mixture. This step adds aromatic and sweet notes to your fudge.
Add the Pear
Gently fold in the diced pear. Confirm the pear pieces are evenly distributed throughout the fudge mixture.
This will provide delightful bursts of flavor and texture in every bite. Use a soft touch to prevent mashing the pear.
Pour and Spread
Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a wooden spoon to spread it evenly across the pan, confirming the surface is smooth.
This guarantees uniform thickness and even setting in the fridge.
Cool and Refrigerate
Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for 10 minutes.
Then, transfer it to the refrigerator to set. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the fudge is firm to the touch.
Proper chilling guarantees the fudge holds its shape when cut.
Cut and Serve
Once set, use a sharp knife to cut the fudge into 16 equal pieces.
Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy this sweet treat as a dessert or snack.
The fudge remains fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Ingredient Swaps
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut condensed milk and dairy-free white chocolate.
- Substitute cardamom with cinnamon or nutmeg for a different spice profile.
- Replace the pear with apples or berries for a regional twist based on local produce availability.
You Must Know
- Chop Chocolate Finely: Verify the white chocolate is finely chopped for smooth and even melting when combined with the other ingredients.
- Stir Continuously: Keep stirring the mixture while on low heat to prevent the chocolate from burning and to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Use Ripe but Firm Pear: Choose a ripe yet firm pear to provide the perfect texture contrast and a burst of fresh flavor in the fudge.
- Cool Before Refrigerating: Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes before placing it in the refrigerator to set properly.
- Store Properly: Keep the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week to maintain its freshness and texture.
Serving Tips
- Pair with a hot cup of spiced chai tea for a cozy treat.
- Serve on a decorative platter with fresh pear slices as garnish.
- Complement with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
- Dust lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
- Arrange on a tiered dessert stand for a festive gathering.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Melting White Chocolate Pear Fudge can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
This makes it an excellent make-ahead dessert for gatherings.
For longer storage, freeze the fudge in an airtight container for up to three months.
Allow it to thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
To gently reheat white chocolate pear fudge, use a microwave on low power in short intervals.
Alternatively, use an oven set to a low temperature.
You can also use a stovetop double boiler method.
Cultural Significance of Cardamom
Although cardamom might seem like just another spice in your pantry, it carries a rich tapestry of cultural significance that spans continents and centuries. Consider this:
- Ancient India – Imagine cardamom being traded along the Silk Road, its aromatic pods cherished as a symbol of hospitality and abundance in Indian households.
- Middle Eastern Cuisine – Envision it infusing the air with warmth and intrigue in Middle Eastern kitchens, where it’s a key ingredient in coffee and desserts, offering a sensory journey through time.
- Nordic Baking – Visualize the spice weaving its way into Scandinavian culture, adding a warm, spicy embrace to pastries and breads, evoking cozy winter gatherings.
Cardamom isn’t just a flavor; it’s a story whispered through generations, connecting us to a world of culinary tradition.
Final Thoughts
Why not give this delightful melting white chocolate pear fudge with cardamom a try? Feel free to tweak the recipe by adding your favorite nuts or a hint of cinnamon for an extra special touch!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Dark Chocolate Instead of White Chocolate for This Fudge?
I wouldn’t recommend substituting dark chocolate for white chocolate here. The rich, creamy sweetness of white chocolate balances the cardamom and pear flavors perfectly, creating a harmonious blend you might miss with dark chocolate’s bitterness.
What Is the Best Way to Peel and Dice a Pear?
I gently grip the pear, slicing off the top and bottom. Using a peeler, I remove the skin in smooth strokes. Next, I halve it, scoop out the core, and dice it into delightful, juicy cubes.
Can I Add Nuts to the Fudge for Extra Crunch?
Absolutely, you can add nuts for extra crunch! I recommend toasting some chopped pecans or walnuts. They’ll add a delightful nuttiness and texture, perfectly complementing the creamy fudge and sweet pear. Enjoy your creation!
How Can I Prevent the Fudge From Sticking to the Pan?
I’ve found lining the pan with parchment paper works wonders. It guarantees easy removal without sticking. Make certain the paper covers all sides, and you’ll lift out perfectly set fudge every time. It’s a game-changer!
Is It Possible to Make This Fudge Without Using Butter?
Absolutely, you can skip the butter! I’ve tried it, and while it slightly alters the texture, the fudge still turns out deliciously creamy. Just make certain you stir constantly to prevent the chocolate from seizing. Enjoy!
Melting White Chocolate Pear Fudge with Cardamom
Equipment
- 1 Baking pan 8×8 inches
- 1 Medium saucepan
- 1 Wooden spoon
- 1 sharp knife
- 1 Cutting board
Ingredients
- 400 gram white chocolate chopped
- 395 gram sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1 pear medium, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, combine chopped white chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and butter over low heat.
- Stir continuously until the chocolate has melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in ground cardamom and vanilla extract.
- Gently fold in the diced pear until evenly distributed.
- Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly with a wooden spoon.
- Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for 10 minutes before transferring to the refrigerator.
- Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours or until set.
- Once set, use a sharp knife to cut the fudge into 16 equal pieces.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
