Indulge in the sweet and tropical flavors of pineapple upside-down cake in fudge form! This creamy and decadent treat combines white chocolate, vanilla pudding, and juicy pineapple for a dessert that melts in your mouth. The addition of maraschino cherries gives it a classic touch, making it perfect for special occasions, parties, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tropical flavor twist – Inspired by pineapple upside-down cake, but in creamy fudge form.
- No-bake & easy – Simple ingredients and no oven required.
- Perfect texture – Smooth, creamy fudge with bursts of juicy pineapple and cherries.
- Great for gifts & parties – A colorful and delicious treat for any occasion.
- Make ahead dessert – Chill it in advance and serve when ready!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- White chocolate chips
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Unsalted butter
- Instant vanilla pudding mix
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Crushed pineapple, well-drained
- Maraschino cherries, halved and patted dry
Directions
1. Prepare the Baking Dish
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
2. Melt the Fudge Base
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt the white chocolate chips, condensed milk, and butter, stirring continuously until smooth.
3. Mix the Ingredients
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla pudding mix, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Add the Fruit
- Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple and maraschino cherries.
5. Set the Fudge
- Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and smooth the top.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
6. Slice and Serve
- Once set, cut into squares and serve chilled.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 16 squares
- Calories: Approximately 220 kcal per serving
Variations
- Nutty crunch – Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture.
- Toasted coconut – Sprinkle shredded coconut on top before chilling.
- Extra tropical – Mix in ½ teaspoon coconut extract for added flavor.
- Chocolate drizzle – Drizzle with melted dark chocolate for contrast.
- Dairy-free option – Use dairy-free white chocolate chips and coconut condensed milk.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, but make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
Why is my fudge too soft?
Too much moisture from the pineapple or under-chilling can cause soft fudge. Ensure it’s completely set before cutting.
Can I make this without pudding mix?
Pudding mix helps with texture, but you can substitute with 2 tablespoons cornstarch and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?
White chocolate enhances the pineapple cake flavor, but milk or dark chocolate will create a different taste.
How do I prevent my fudge from sticking to the pan?
Line your dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it before pouring in the mixture.
Can I add food coloring for a fun twist?
Yes! A few drops of yellow or pink food coloring can enhance the tropical theme.
Is this fudge overly sweet?
It is sweet and rich, but the pineapple adds a touch of tartness to balance the flavors.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch pan and double all ingredients for a larger batch.
Can I make this fudge ahead of time?
Yes! It stores well, making it perfect for parties or gifting.
Do I need a candy thermometer?
No! This easy fudge recipe requires just melting and mixing—no thermometer needed.
Conclusion
Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge is a fun, tropical twist on classic fudge, combining the flavors of pineapple cake and creamy vanilla fudge. With no baking required, this recipe is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy a melt-in-your-mouth treat that will transport you to a sunny paradise!
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Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge
This Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge combines the tropical flavors of pineapple upside-down cake with the creamy richness of fudge. Made with white chocolate, vanilla pudding, and juicy pineapple, this no-bake treat is perfect for parties, gifts, or indulging in a tropical-inspired dessert!
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients
- 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
- 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.
- Melt the Fudge Base: In a saucepan over low heat, melt white chocolate chips, condensed milk, and butter, stirring until smooth.
- Mix Ingredients: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla pudding mix, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add the Fruit: Gently fold in drained crushed pineapple and maraschino cherries.
- Set the Fudge: Pour mixture into the prepared dish and smooth the top. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
- Slice & Serve: Once set, cut into squares and serve chilled.
Notes
- Add crunch: Stir in ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts.
- Tropical twist: Mix in ½ tsp coconut extract or top with shredded coconut.
- Storage: Refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prevent stickiness: Line the dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
