# What You Need:
→ Crust
01 - 7 ounces digestive biscuits or graham crackers, finely crushed
02 - 3.5 ounces unsalted butter, melted
→ Strawberry Fudge Layer
03 - 7 ounces white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
04 - 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
05 - 1.75 ounces freeze-dried strawberries, ground to fine powder or 3.5 ounces fresh strawberries, pureed and strained
06 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
07 - Pinch of salt
08 - 1 to 2 drops pink or red gel food coloring, optional
→ Optional Garnish
09 - Fresh strawberry slices
10 - Extra freeze-dried strawberry pieces or coarse sugar crystals
# Directions:
01 - Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving 1 to 1.25 inches of overhang on two opposite sides for easy removal after chilling.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine crushed biscuits and melted butter. Stir until all crumbs are thoroughly moistened and the mixture holds together firmly when pressed.
03 - Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan, creating a uniform layer. Refrigerate for 10 minutes.
04 - Place white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a medium heatproof bowl. Set the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water using a double boiler method. Stir gently until chocolate is completely melted and the mixture achieves a smooth consistency.
05 - Remove the bowl from heat. Stir in freeze-dried strawberry powder or strained puree, vanilla extract, salt, and food coloring if using. Mix until fully combined with uniform color throughout.
06 - Pour the strawberry fudge mixture evenly over the chilled crust. Use a spatula to spread the mixture to all corners and edges, ensuring an even layer.
07 - Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 to 3 hours until the fudge layer is completely firm to the touch.
08 - Lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into 16 equal squares with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between each cut for neat edges.
09 - Top each square with fresh strawberry slices or extra freeze-dried strawberry pieces if desired. Serve chilled or allow to soften at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.
