If you’re looking for a festive, rich, and utterly delightful treat, this Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe is your golden ticket. It combines the creamy indulgence of both semi-sweet and white chocolate with a refreshing peppermint zing that feels like a holiday hug in every bite. Perfect for sharing with friends or gifting during the season, this fudge is simple to make, wonderfully smooth in texture, and topped with a crunchy crushed candy cane finish that takes it over the top. Once you try this recipe, it’s guaranteed to become one of your favorite go-to sweets!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe. Each component plays a special role in creating the creamy texture, balanced sweetness, and minty freshness that make this fudge so irresistible.
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: The rich chocolate base that delivers depth of flavor and smoothness.
- 1 cup white chocolate chips: Adds a creamy sweetness and beautiful contrast to the semi-sweet chocolate.
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk: Provides luscious creaminess and helps bind the fudge together perfectly.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Enhances richness and gives the fudge a glossy finish.
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: Brings that cool, refreshing mint flavor essential to the recipe.
- 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candy canes: Adds a bright, crunchy topping that complements the creamy fudge.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the chocolate flavors.
How to Make Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Line an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the fudge from sticking. This simple prep step makes sure your fudge comes out cleanly and in perfect squares.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
In a heatproof bowl, combine the semi-sweet and white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Use the double boiler method by placing the bowl over simmering water, stirring frequently, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until the mixture is fully melted and silky smooth. This gentle melting prevents burning and ensures an even, glossy fudge base.
Step 3: Add the Peppermint
Remove the smooth chocolate mixture from heat and stir in the peppermint extract along with a pinch of salt. This step infuses your fudge with that unmistakable minty aroma that makes it so inviting and special.
Step 4: Transfer to the Pan
Pour the melted fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Give the pan a gentle tap on the countertop to release any air bubbles trapped inside, ensuring a perfectly smooth surface once set.
Step 5: Top with Crushed Peppermint
Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candy canes evenly across the top of the fudge. Press them down lightly so they adhere without sinking in, adding color, texture, and that festive crunch.
Step 6: Chill and Set
Place the fudge in the refrigerator for at least 2 to 3 hours until it’s firm and set. Patience here rewards you with fudge that slices cleanly and melts beautifully in your mouth.
Step 7: Serve
Lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper edges. Cut it into squares, grab a friend, and enjoy this delightful treat together!
How to Serve Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
While the crushed peppermint topping is stunning on its own, you can elevate presentation by adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for extra flair. Fresh mint leaves on the side can also enhance the visual appeal and aroma.
Side Dishes
This peppermint fudge pairs beautifully with warm beverages like hot cocoa, coffee, or peppermint tea. Serving the fudge alongside fruit platters or nut assortments can balance sweetness and add variety, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
For gift-giving or party favors, cut the fudge into bite-sized pieces and wrap them individually in festive cellophane with a ribbon. Layered in decorative tins or clear jars with ribbons, the fudge makes a charming homemade gift that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your fudge fresh by storing leftover pieces in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to two weeks, ready whenever you need a sweet nibble or a little holiday cheer.
Freezing
You can freeze this peppermint fudge to extend its shelf life. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight to preserve the texture and flavor.
Reheating
Although fudge is lovely served cold or at room temperature, if you prefer it slightly softer, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture, making it grainy or too soft.
FAQs
Can I use all dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet and white chocolate?
Yes, you can customize this Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe by using all dark chocolate, but keep in mind the flavor will be less sweet and the creamy contrast from white chocolate will be missing, changing the texture slightly.
What’s the best way to crush peppermint candy canes?
Place candy canes in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan. This prevents bits from scattering and gives you a lovely uneven texture for topping.
Can I make this fudge without peppermint extract?
Absolutely! Omitting peppermint extract will give you a classic chocolate fudge. Alternatively, you can experiment with other extracts like vanilla or almond for different flavor profiles.
How thick should the fudge layer be in the pan?
A thickness of about 1 to 1.5 inches is ideal. This allows the fudge to set properly and makes for perfect bite-sized squares without being too crumbly or chewy.
Is this fudge suitable for gifting?
Definitely! The festive peppermint topping and simple elegance of this Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe make it a fantastic homemade gift. Just package it in decorative tins or clear boxes to impress your loved ones.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe is truly one of those comforting delights that blends simplicity with extraordinary flavor. Whether you’re making it for holiday celebrations, gifts, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, it offers a perfect balance of creamy texture and refreshing peppermint. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes a staple in your recipe collection—you’ll be sharing it with friends and family year after year!
Print
Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe combines creamy semi-sweet and white chocolate with a refreshing peppermint flavor, topped with crushed candy canes for a festive touch. Perfect for holiday gifting or indulgent treats, this fudge is simple to make using a double boiler or microwave method and requires chilling to set.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Pinch of salt
Topping
- 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candy canes
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the fudge from sticking after it sets.
- Melt the chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, combine semi-sweet chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Melt the mixture using a double boiler by placing the bowl over simmering water, stirring until smooth, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and combined.
- Add the peppermint: Remove the melted mixture from heat. Stir in the peppermint extract and a pinch of salt thoroughly to infuse the mint flavor evenly.
- Transfer to the pan: Pour the smooth fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it into an even layer and gently tap the pan on the countertop to eliminate air bubbles.
- Top with crushed peppermint: Evenly sprinkle the crushed peppermint candy canes over the fudge surface. Press them lightly to help them adhere to the fudge.
- Chill and set: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2-3 hours until it firms up completely.
- Serve: Once fully set, remove the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper, cut into 16 squares, and enjoy this rich and minty treat!
Notes
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for the best flavor and texture.
- Crushing peppermint candy canes can be done by placing them inside a sealed plastic bag and gently tapping with a rolling pin.
- Store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute sweetened condensed milk and butter with vegan alternatives.
- If you prefer a softer fudge, reduce chilling time slightly but be careful to avoid the fudge becoming too soft to cut.
