Indulgent Velvety Peppermint Fudge Recipe: Festive Sweet Treats

Decadent chocolate swirls meet creamy peppermint fudge in a dessert that dances between rich and refreshing.

Winter’s favorite flavor combination melts into a smooth, irresistible treat.

Sweet peppermint bursts through layers of dark chocolate, creating a luxurious winter indulgence.

Each bite promises a delightful contrast of cool mint and deep cocoa notes.

The recipe combines simple ingredients with effortless technique, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels.

Chocolate lovers and mint enthusiasts will fall head over heels for this festive confection.

Prepare to unlock a mouthwatering experience that transforms ordinary moments into delectable memories.

Storing Peppermint Fudge to Keep It Smooth and Firm

• Store the fudge in an airtight container, layering pieces between sheets of wax paper to prevent sticking. Keep refrigerated for maximum freshness, lasting up to 2 weeks.
• For faster setting, place the fudge in the coldest part of your refrigerator, avoiding temperature fluctuations that might impact texture.
• Wrap individual fudge pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen fudge maintains excellent quality for 3 months, perfect for making ahead or saving treats.
• If serving, remove fudge from refrigerator 15-20 minutes before enjoying. This gentle warming helps restore the smooth, creamy texture and enhances the peppermint flavor's delightful intensity.

FAQs

• What makes peppermint fudge different from regular fudge?

This peppermint fudge combines chocolate and white chocolate layers with a refreshing peppermint twist, using candy canes for extra crunch and festive flavor.

• Can I use different types of chocolate for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute semi-sweet or white chocolate chips with similar quality chocolate chips, but stick to baking-grade chocolate for best results.

• How do I crush candy canes without making a mess?

Place unwrapped candy canes in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush them using a rolling pin or the back of a heavy spoon. This prevents scattered pieces and contains the mess.

• Is this recipe suitable for holiday gifting?

Absolutely! Peppermint fudge makes a delightful homemade gift. Wrap pieces in festive packaging or place in decorative tins for a personal touch that friends and family will love.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Calories: 200 kcal

Servings: 13

Peppermint Fudge Ingredient List for a Cool, Sweet Treat

• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Creamy binder that helps fudge set smoothly and adds rich sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor depth and rounds out chocolate notes.

• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Provides deep, robust chocolate foundation with balanced sweetness.
• White Chocolate Chips: Creates smooth, creamy contrast with a delicate, milky flavor profile.

• Candy Canes: Delivers classic peppermint punch and delightful seasonal crunch with bright, cool undertones.

• Parchment Paper: Ensures effortless fudge removal and clean cutting with zero sticking.

Bonus Tip: Select high-quality chocolate chips for most luxurious texture and richest flavor experience.

Tools for Melting and Swirling Peppermint Fudge Like a Pro

• Microwave-safe bowls: Essential for melting chocolate smoothly and evenly.
• 8×8-inch baking dish: Perfect for creating the fudge layers and easy to handle.
• Parchment paper: Helps line the pan and makes removing the fudge a breeze.
• Spatula: Great for spreading chocolate layers and scraping bowls clean.
• Sharp knife: Needed for cutting the fudge into neat, clean squares.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise ingredient amounts for perfect fudge.

How to Prepare Peppermint Fudge for Gifting or Snacking

• Prep Your Workspace

Create a cozy baking area with a clean 8×8 inch baking dish and parchment paper for easy removal.

• Craft Chocolate Base

Melt semi-sweet chocolate chips with sweetened condensed milk in the microwave, stirring gently until silky smooth. Add a splash of vanilla and peppermint extract for depth. Pour into the lined pan and let it chill in the refrigerator.

• Create White Chocolate

Combine white chocolate chips with remaining condensed milk, heating carefully until velvety. Swirl in peppermint extract and sprinkle crushed candy canes into the mixture.

• Layer and Decorate

Gently pour the white chocolate mixture over the dark chocolate layer. Scatter remaining candy cane pieces across the top for a festive touch.

• Chill and Transform

Let the fudge rest in the refrigerator for a couple of hours until it becomes firm and delectable.

• Slice and Savor

Remove the fudge using parchment paper, cut into delightful squares, and enjoy the cool, minty sweetness.

Flavor Ideas to Make Peppermint Fudge Stand Out

• Expert Tips & Twists
• Crush candy canes just before adding to maintain their vibrant color and prevent moisture absorption, ensuring a crisp, fresh texture in every bite.
• Use 50% power and short intervals to prevent chocolate from burning, stirring thoroughly between each heating cycle for smooth, glossy layers.
• This fudge can be prepared up to one week in advance, stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, making holiday prep a breeze.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute sweetened condensed milk with coconut cream and use dairy-free chocolate chips, keeping the festive flavor intact.
• Experiment with different extracts like almond or orange to create unique fudge variations that'll surprise and delight your taste buds.

Serving Peppermint Fudge with Holiday Style

• Holiday Dessert Platter: Create a festive display by arranging fudge squares on a decorative holiday plate, surrounded by whole candy canes and sprinkled with extra crushed peppermint pieces for a stunning presentation.
• Gifting Delights: Package the fudge in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons, making perfect homemade gifts for teachers, neighbors, or holiday party hosts. Add a personal touch with a handwritten note.
• Cocoa Companion: Serve small fudge squares alongside hot chocolate for a delightful winter treat. The peppermint flavor complements the warm drink beautifully, creating a cozy and indulgent dessert experience.
• Dessert Buffet Star: Include these fudge squares on a holiday dessert table, creating visual interest with their contrasting chocolate and white chocolate layers. Pair with other seasonal treats like gingerbread cookies or sugar cookies.

Velvety Peppermint Fudge Recipe

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4.8 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 13 1x

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Description

Delectable peppermint fudge delights dessert enthusiasts with its creamy chocolate base and refreshing mint notes. Rich seasonal treat invites winter celebration while satisfying sweet cravings with minimal preparation effort.

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Ingredients

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• 1 ½ cups (360 ml) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 ½ cups (360 ml) white chocolate chips
• 1 can (14 oz / 396 g) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup (120 ml) crushed candy canes or peppermint candies

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Line a rectangular baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over edges for easy removal.
2. Chocolate Layer: Melt semi-sweet chocolate chips with sweetened condensed milk in the microwave, stirring until smooth. Mix in vanilla and half the peppermint extract, then spread evenly in the prepared pan.
3. Chilling Base: Refrigerate the chocolate layer while preparing the white chocolate topping.
4. White Chocolate Layer: Melt white chocolate chips with remaining condensed milk until creamy. Stir in remaining peppermint extract and half of the crushed candy canes.
5. Layering: Pour white chocolate mixture over the chilled chocolate base, ensuring even coverage.
6. Finishing Touch: Sprinkle remaining crushed candy canes across the surface for a festive appearance.
7. Setting: Refrigerate the fudge for approximately two hours until completely firm.
8. Serving: Remove from pan using parchment paper edges and slice into delicate squares, ready to enjoy.

Notes

• Chocolate Melting Mastery: Use low microwave power and stir frequently to prevent chocolate from burning, ensuring a smooth, glossy texture without seizure or graininess.
• Extract Balance Critical: Add peppermint extract gradually and taste, as intensity varies between brands; start with less to avoid overwhelming the delicate chocolate flavors.
• Layering Technique: Ensure chocolate base is slightly chilled before adding white chocolate layer to create clean, distinct color separation and prevent unintended blending.
• Candy Cane Crunch Control: Crush candy canes to varied sizes – some fine powder for color, some larger pieces for texture – creating visual and sensory interest in each bite.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 13
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 20 g
• Sodium: 30 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 26 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 5 mg