If you are looking for a delightful treat that combines the rich, velvety taste of chocolate with the refreshing zing of mint, this Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s incredibly simple to whip up, yet the flavors come together in a way that feels truly special—perfect for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or just a cozy night in. The creamy texture, balanced sweetness, and festive peppermint crunch make this fudge a fast favorite that you’ll want to share with everyone you love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to making this fudge unforgettable. Each component plays a key role, from delivering smoothness to adding bursts of cool peppermint flavor and a satisfying bite.
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: These bring that classic chocolate depth and help create the fudgy base texture.
- 1 cup white chocolate chips: Adds creamy sweetness and a lovely contrast in flavor and color.
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk: Essential for that rich, luscious consistency that melts in your mouth.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Adds smoothness and helps everything bind together beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: The heart of the recipe, infusing that unmistakable peppermint punch.
- 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candy canes (for topping): Provides a festive crunch and bright pops of color.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness and brightening the overall taste.
How to Make Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This simple step makes sure the fudge won’t stick, so you get clean, perfect squares once it’s set.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
Combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter in a heatproof bowl. You can melt these gently over a pot of simmering water using a double boiler method, or if you’re in a hurry, melt them in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring well in between. The goal is a smooth, velvety chocolate base ready to embrace that peppermint flavor.
Step 3: Add Peppermint and Salt
Once the chocolate mixture is silky and fully melted, remove it from the heat. Stir in the peppermint extract and a pinch of salt carefully. This is the moment the fudge really comes alive with a refreshing, minty twist that balances the chocolate’s richness perfectly.
Step 4: Pour and Even Out the Mixture
Pour the luscious chocolate mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly so each bite is consistently creamy. Give the pan a gentle tap on your countertop to release any trapped air bubbles for a smooth surface.
Step 5: Add the Candy Cane Crunch
Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candy canes evenly across the top, pressing them lightly so they stick. This not only makes the fudge look festive but adds that signature peppermint crunch that crunch loves.
Step 6: Chill Until Set
Pop the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 to 3 hours. The cool chill allows the fudge to firm up just right—making it easy to cut and impossible to resist.
Step 7: Cut and Enjoy
Once firm, lift the fudge out by the parchment paper, slice into squares, and get ready to indulge! The texture and flavor are just as wonderful as they look.
How to Serve Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or an extra sprinkle of finely crushed candy canes on top. A small edible glitter can add a magical sparkle that makes this treat party-ready.
Side Dishes
This peppermint fudge pairs wonderfully with warm beverages like hot cocoa, coffee, or even a chilled glass of milk. The richness balances beautifully with drinks, making every bite feel indulgent and comforting.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the fudge squares in a decorative tin lined with festive wax paper, or arrange them on a pretty plate with sprigs of fresh mint or holly. Wrapping individual squares in cellophane with ribbons makes fantastic homemade gifts that will impress anyone lucky enough to receive them.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover fudge should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge, depending on your climate. It stays fresh and chewy for about one week when kept properly, so you can savor it over several days.
Freezing
If you want to keep the fudge longer, freezing works wonderfully. Just wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing their wonderful texture or flavor.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if it feels too firm from refrigeration or freezing, leaving it out for a bit will soften it nicely. Avoid microwaving to reheat fudge as it can affect the texture.
FAQs
Can I use all semi-sweet chocolate instead of mixing with white chocolate?
Absolutely! Using only semi-sweet chocolate will give you a richer chocolate flavor, but the white chocolate adds a creamy sweetness and balances the peppermint nicely—feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
Is it necessary to use peppermint extract, or can I substitute something else?
Peppermint extract is key for that authentic minty flavor in this recipe, but if you want a milder mint taste, you could substitute with spearmint or even peppermint oil, just be careful with amounts as oils are more concentrated.
How do I crush candy canes for the topping?
The easiest way is to place the candy canes in a sealable plastic bag and use a rolling pin or a heavy pan to gently crush them to your desired size—small chunks for crunch or finely ground for a sprinkle effect.
Can I make this fudge without a double boiler?
Yes! The microwave method works great and is actually super convenient. Just melt the ingredients in short 30-second bursts, stirring well each time to avoid scorching the chocolate.
What if my fudge turns out too soft?
If your fudge is soft, it might not have chilled long enough or the mixture didn’t firm up properly. Try refrigerating it longer or adjusting the amount of condensed milk slightly next time for a firmer texture.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorite treats to make and share. It’s simple, festive, and tastes like a dream with minimal effort. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s so addictive—so why not make a batch today and experience that perfect blend of creamy chocolate and fresh peppermint yourself?
Print
Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 16-20 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe offers a delightful blend of creamy chocolate and refreshing peppermint, perfect for holiday treats or anytime you crave a sweet, minty dessert. Featuring a smooth blend of semi-sweet and white chocolate, enriched with sweetened condensed milk and butter, and topped with crushed candy canes for a festive crunch, it’s simple to make with no baking required.
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 sticking, ensuring easy fudge removal.
- Melt the Ingredients: In a heatproof bowl, combine semi-sweet chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Melt this mixture using a double boiler over simmering water or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Add Flavor: Remove the melted chocolate mixture from the heat and stir in the peppermint extract along with a pinch of salt, mixing thoroughly to infuse the minty flavor evenly throughout.
- Pour and Spread: Pour the smooth fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Tap the pan gently on the countertop to eliminate air bubbles for a smooth finish.
- Add Topping: Evenly sprinkle crushed peppermint candy canes over the top of the fudge, pressing them lightly to help them adhere.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 to 3 hours until it is completely firm and set for perfect slicing.
- Serve: Remove the set fudge from the pan using the parchment paper, cut into 16-20 squares, and enjoy the festive treat!
Notes
- Use good quality chocolate chips for the best flavor and texture.
- Crushing candy canes finely helps them stick better and distributes peppermint flavor evenly.
- The fudge can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- For extra festive flair, drizzle additional melted white chocolate on top before adding crushed candy canes.
- Let fudge come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly for easier biting.
