If you’re on the hunt for a festive treat that’s both decadent and delightfully refreshing, this Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines creamy semi-sweet and white chocolates with a burst of cool peppermint, creating a perfect balance of rich sweetness and crisp mint flavor that melts in your mouth. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a tray of irresistible peppermint fudge to share (or keep all to yourself). This recipe not only delivers on taste but also adds a charming holiday touch with a sprinkle of crushed candy canes on top.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a few easy-to-find ingredients is all it takes to create this luscious fudge. Each element plays a special role, from the smooth chocolate base to the refreshing peppermint punch and the crunchy candy cane topping that adds texture and festive cheer.
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: This provides the rich chocolaty foundation that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and slightly bitter.
- 1 cup white chocolate chips: Adds creamy sweetness and a beautiful contrast in color, making the fudge visually appealing.
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk: Brings a velvety texture and sweetness that helps bind the chocolates together seamlessly.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Enhances the fudgy richness without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: The star ingredient that infuses the fudge with that unmistakable cool, minty essence.
- 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candy canes: Perfect for sprinkling on top, these add a satisfying crunch and festive flair.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and elevates the chocolate and peppermint flavors.
How to Make Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper or lightly greasing it. This step ensures your fudge won’t stick and will come out in perfect squares once it sets.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
Combine your semi-sweet chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter in a heatproof bowl. Use a double boiler by placing the bowl over simmering water, or microwave the mixture in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. Keep going until the mixture is fully melted and smooth, creating a luscious blend of chocolate.
Step 3: Add the Peppermint Flavor
Remove the melted chocolate mixture from heat and stir in the peppermint extract along with a pinch of salt. This gives your fudge that special minty kick and rounds out the sweetness, making each bite perfectly balanced.
Step 4: Pour and Spread
Pour the smooth fudge mixture into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Tap the dish gently on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles, helping to create a flawless surface.
Step 5: Top with Crushed Candy Canes
Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candy canes evenly over the fudge surface. Press them down lightly so they stick, adding a delightful burst of flavor and a beautiful festive touch.
Step 6: Chill Until Firm
Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 to 3 hours. This chilling step is crucial because it allows the fudge to set fully and develop that signature fudgy texture.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Once firm, lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper edges and cut into squares. Now your Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe is ready to impress everyone lucky enough to get a piece!
How to Serve Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra festive flair, consider adding a few whole peppermint candies or lightly dusting the edges with powdered sugar. The contrast not only looks pretty but adds a small hint of sweetness and sparkle.
Side Dishes
This peppermint fudge pairs beautifully with hot beverages like rich cocoa, spiced coffee, or even a warm cup of tea. These drinks complement the cool mint and chocolate while making your dessert experience cozy and indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
Package your Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe in decorative tins or stacked in clear jars tied with a bright ribbon. It makes a wonderful homemade gift that friends and family will adore. You might also arrange squares on a festive platter garnished with fresh mint leaves and sprigs of holly for a stunning holiday centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its smooth texture and preserves the peppermint flavor without drying it out.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy your fudge later, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Your Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe freezes beautifully and can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy after freezing, thaw the fudge in the refrigerator overnight. Let it come to room temperature before serving so the texture is creamy and the peppermint flavor shines through.
FAQs
Can I use only semi-sweet or only white chocolate in this fudge?
While you can use just one type of chocolate, mixing semi-sweet and white chocolate gives this fudge a unique balance of sweetness and richness that really makes the peppermint flavor pop.
Is there a substitute for sweetened condensed milk?
Sweetened condensed milk is key for the creamy texture, but if you need a substitute, you can try evaporated milk combined with sugar, though the texture might be slightly different.
Can I make this fudge without peppermint extract?
You could, but the peppermint extract is what brings that signature refreshing twist. Without it, the fudge will taste more like a classic chocolate fudge, which is still delicious but not quite the same.
How finely should I crush the peppermint candy canes?
Crushing them into small but noticeable pieces works best. You want enough texture contrast without making the topping too powdery or hard to chew.
What’s the best way to cut the fudge into clean squares?
Use a sharp knife warmed in hot water and wiped dry before slicing. This helps create smooth edges without cracking or crumbling the fudge.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe is truly a delightful dessert that feels both special and approachable. It’s wonderful to make for holidays, parties, or just whenever you crave something sweet with a minty twist. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe, share it, and enjoy all those smiles it’s sure to bring!
Print
Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 16-20 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Peppermint Fudge recipe is a festive and delicious treat combining rich semi-sweet and white chocolate with a refreshing peppermint flavor. Perfectly smooth and topped with crushed peppermint candy canes, it sets quickly in the refrigerator and yields 16 to 20 bite-sized pieces, making it an ideal holiday dessert or gift.
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 Ingredients: In a heatproof bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Melt the mixture using a double boiler by placing the bowl over simmering water, or alternatively melt it in a microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth.
- Add Flavoring: Remove the melted chocolate mixture from heat and stir in the peppermint extract and a pinch of salt thoroughly to infuse the mint flavor evenly.
- Pour and Level: Pour the smooth fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Gently tap the dish on your counter to release any trapped air bubbles, ensuring a smooth finish.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candy canes over the surface of the fudge, pressing them down lightly so they adhere to the top.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the dish for at least 2 to 3 hours until the fudge is fully set and firm to the touch.
- Cut and Serve: Remove the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper overhang and cut into 16 to 20 squares. Enjoy your peppermint-flavored festive treat!
Notes
- Use good quality chocolate chips for the best flavor and texture.
- Ensure the fudge is refrigerated long enough to fully set; cutting too early will yield gooey pieces.
- You can substitute crushed candy canes with crushed peppermint candies or peppermint bark for variations.
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Allow fudge to sit at room temperature a few minutes before serving for a softer bite.
