This Peppermint Fudge is a delicious holiday treat that combines the sweetness of chocolate with the refreshing flavor of peppermint. The crunchy texture of the crushed candies gives this fudge an extra festive feel. It's one of the easiest ways to bring a bit of Christmas cheer into your home while having little goodies you can give away to family and friends. Be sure to make extra because you might not have enough to go around.
Fudge is typically made from chocolate and sweetened condensed milk, but the addition of Peppermint extract and crushed candy canes makes this one extra special. Having a piece of this peppermint Fudge is like taking a bite out of the festive season itself. The rich, creamy chocolate is the perfect base for the sweet, minty flavor of peppermint, so it’s an absolute delight to have after a holiday feast or with a cup of tea. Often served in small, bite-sized squares, it’s easy to take one or more of these fudge pieces with you wherever you go. Plus, they’re so pretty that you can even put them on display as part of your holiday decorations.
Why You'll Love this Peppermint Fudge
- Super quick and easy to make. If you need a last-minute holiday treat, this peppermint fudge only takes about 30 minutes to prep using three simple ingredients. Plus, you're free to customize the recipe however you'd like by adding different flavors or colors.
- Gorgeous festive treat. This peppermint fudge tastes like Christmas in your mouth. The combination of creamy chocolate and refreshing peppermint makes it look like a winter wonderland, which is sure to get everyone into the holiday spirit. It's perfect to serve during holiday gatherings or just to have around the house during the “ber” months.
- Great holiday gift. Baking for the holidays is a great way to show your love and appreciation, but this no-bake peppermint fudge can be just as special. It makes the perfect present for family and friends, or even co-workers if you’re feeling generous. Put some in cute little boxes or just put a plate of these out for your guests to enjoy.
- Make-ahead option. Do you have a holiday dinner party coming up? Or maybe you’re just looking for something to keep around the house during the festive season? This peppermint fudge is perfect for busy holiday schedules since it can be made up to two weeks in advance and stored in the fridge until needed.
Ingredient Notes
To make this delicious Peppermint Fudge, you will need the following ingredients (full measurements in recipe card below):
- chocolate chips - chocolate forms the body of the fudge as it cools. I prefer semi-sweet chocolate so the fudge won’t be overly sweet. You can also use dark chocolate chips for a deep and slightly bitter flavor, or even white chocolate.
- sweetened condensed milk - makes the fudge creamy while adding extra sweetness.
- butter - use unsalted butter for the best flavor control.
- peppermint extract - this adds an extra layer of mint flavor. You can leave it out if you prefer a slightly more subtle flavor.
- vanilla - adds flavor but is optional.
- candy canes - this adds a festive look, flavor, and crunch. Simply put the candies in a resealable bag and crush them using a mallet or a heavily bottomed glass. You can also use crushed peppermint candies
You will also need measuring cups and spoons, baking pan, cooking spray, parchment paper, mixing bowl, microwave, and silicone spatula.
How to Make the Best Peppermint Fudge
- Prep. Prepare an 8x8-inch square baking pan with cooking spray. Line 2 sheets of parchment paper on all the sides of the pan, leaving an overhang on 2 sides for easy removal.
- Heat ingredients. In a medium saucepan or cooking pot, add the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Heat over low heat and fold together with a spatula. Continue to heat the mixture over low heat, stirring and folding with the spatula frequently, until the all of the chocolate chips have fully melted, and the fudge is well-combined, smooth, and thick.
- Add extracts. Add in the peppermint extract and vanilla. Mix and fold them into the fudge until combined.
- Pour. Immediately pour the fudge into the prepared baking pan and quickly smooth it out with a spatula. Top with the crushed candy canes.
- Chill. Transfer to the fridge to set for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. When set, remove the fudge from the pan, then slice into 36 pieces.
Recipe Variations
- Make it white. Instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips, use white chocolate for a different look and flavor. Make it more festive by adding a tinge of red or green food coloring and creating a swirl on top.
- Use dark chocolate. Substitute dark chocolate chips for a deep and slightly bitter flavor that complements the sweet peppermint candies.
- Layer fudges. Create a two-tone effect by preparing two fudges, one regular milk chocolate, and one white chocolate. Then, pour one of the mixtures first followed by the other.
- Mix some nuts. For a satisfying crunch, incorporate nuts into the fudge mixture while mixing. Use either chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts for added flavor and texture. Toasting these nuts beforehand also adds a robust flavor and a crunchier bite.
How to Serve
Enjoy this delicious Peppermint Fudge with a hot holiday beverage or other festive desserts such:
- Non-Alcoholic Homemade Eggnog
- White Hot Chocolate
- Chai Tea Latte
- Gingerbread Cake
- Almond Horns
- Chocolate Spritz Cookies
For more recipe inspiration, see our 30 Best Christmas Dessert Recipes.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Use good quality chocolate. Always use chocolate chips that are made from cocoa liquor or butter as they have a richer taste and flavor than those made from vegetable oils.
- Balance the sweetness. With all the sweet ingredients in this recipe, peppermint fudge can sometimes be too sweet. Adjust the sweetness by substituting the chocolate chips with darker ones. The amount of sweetened condensed milk can also be adjusted to your preference.
- Cut with a warm knife. Simply dip a knife in a bowl of hot water before slicing the fudge. Wipe the blade in between cuts to make sure that the edges are even and the fudge doesn’t stick to the knife.
- Serve at room temperature. Allow the fudge to warm to room temperature before serving for a creamier and softer treat.
Storing and Freezing Instructions
How to Store
Place the cut peppermint fudge pieces in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to two weeks.
How to Freeze
Keep the pieces in a freezer bag or container and store in the freezer for up to a month.
More Peppermint Recipes
- 30 Best Christmas Dessert Recipes
- Peppermint Kiss Cookies
- Chocolate Peppermint Christmas Bark
- Peppermint Macarons
- Peppermint Brownies
- Candy Cane Cookies
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