Peppermint Holiday Fudge Treat

This peppermint holiday fudge is a festive delight combining smooth layers of rich chocolate and creamy white chocolate with a refreshing peppermint kick. Its bright crushed candy cane topping adds a perfect crunch and holiday charm. Whether you need a quick holiday treat or a sweet gift, this fudge has the ideal balance of taste and texture to brighten your celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Holiday Fudge

• Uses simple ingredients that you likely have on hand
• Comes together in about 20 minutes with no baking involved
• Delivers a beautiful balance of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint
• Perfect for gifting or sharing at festive gatherings

I first made this fudge during a hectic holiday season when I needed something fast but special. The peppermint aroma immediately lifted everyone’s spirits, and since then it has become a must-make treat each year that friends and family actually request.

Ingredients

• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: provide a deep, classic chocolate flavor, choose good quality for best results
• Sweetened condensed milk: adds creamy sweetness and binds the fudge layers smoothly
• Butter: enhances richness and gives the fudge a tender texture, use unsalted to control seasoning
• Vanilla extract: gives warmth and depth to the chocolate layer
• Salt: a pinch balances the sweetness and highlights the chocolate notes
• White chocolate chips: form the luscious peppermint layer, contrast beautifully with dark chocolate, pick quality chunks that melt evenly
• Marshmallow fluff: adds chewiness and helps with texture, you can swap for melted mini marshmallows if preferred
• Peppermint extract: is the star flavor that infuses the bright holiday peppermint aroma
• Red food coloring: is optional and can be used for a festive marbled effect in the white layer
• Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies: give a crunchy, colorful festive topping
• Holiday sprinkles: are optional but add extra sparkle and color for celebrations

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Pan:

Line an 8 by 8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra overhang on the sides. This overhang makes it easy to lift out the fudge later without damage, ensuring nice clean cuts.

Make the Chocolate Layer:

In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, butter, and three quarters of the sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly with a heatproof spatula to prevent burning until everything melts into a smooth, shiny mixture. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Pour the chocolate mixture evenly into your prepared pan and spread it flat. Chill in the fridge for 10 to 15 minutes until slightly firm while preparing the next layer.

Make the White Peppermint Layer:

Use a clean saucepan on low heat to melt the white chocolate chips with the remaining sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously until melted. Add in the marshmallow fluff and stir until smooth and fully combined. Next, stir in the peppermint extract for that festive flavor. For a creative twist, add a few drops of red food coloring and gently swirl it through the mixture. Pour this layer over the chilled chocolate layer and spread evenly.

Add the Festive Topping:

Immediately sprinkle the crushed candy canes or peppermint candies over the white layer. Press gently so they stick well. Add any holiday sprinkles you like to give a colorful festive touch. This final step adds a delightful crunch and vibrant visual appeal.

Chill and Cut:

Place the fudge in the refrigerator for at least two hours, preferably longer, until completely firm. Once set, use the parchment overhang to lift the fudge from the pan. Place on a cutting board and slice into neat squares with a sharp knife. Letting the fudge sit a few minutes at room temperature before cutting makes this easier.

Bookmark

My favorite ingredient has to be the peppermint extract. Its fresh, cool aroma instantly transports me to holiday mornings spent baking with my family. The crushed candy canes on top always remind me of joyful moments sharing these treats with loved ones around the tree.

Storage Tips

Store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and texture. It keeps well for up to two weeks but rarely lasts that long when guests are around. For longer storage, wrap fudge tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container for freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want a dairy-free version, swap sweetened condensed milk with full-fat coconut cream and use vegan chocolate chips. Melted mini marshmallows can replace marshmallow fluff if you don’t have it on hand. For a richer taste, using dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet adds depth. You can omit the peppermint extract and use vanilla extract instead, but the classic peppermint flavor really makes this fudge special.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your peppermint holiday fudge alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa or peppermint tea for a cozy seasonal pairing. A scoop of vanilla ice cream works well too, contrasting cold and creamy with the dense fudge texture. Arrange on a festive platter garnished with extra crushed candy canes for a beautiful presentation when entertaining. Wrap individual squares in decorative cellophane for charming homemade holiday gifts friends and family will love.

Cultural Context

Holiday fudge has long been a festive tradition across many households as a quick, sweet confection often shared during family gatherings and celebrations. The peppermint flavor adds that classic winter holiday touch associated with candy canes and holiday treats, especially popular in North America. This layered fudge echoes the spirit of seasonal indulgence combined with the joy of gifting love and sweetness.

Pro Tips

• Always stir continuously when melting the chocolate layers to avoid burning the chocolate and ruining the texture
• Using parchment paper with overhang dramatically simplifies removing and cutting the fudge
• Adjust peppermint extract carefully; it’s potent and a little goes a long way for perfect festive flavor

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use different chocolates for this fudge?

Yes, you can substitute semi-sweet with dark or milk chocolate, but aim for a balance to maintain the classic flavor harmony.

→ How long does the fudge stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it remains fresh for up to two weeks.

→ Is freezing this treat possible?

Absolutely! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to three months, thawing overnight in the fridge before serving.

→ What are alternatives to marshmallow fluff?

Melted mini marshmallows work well and provide a similar texture and sweetness.

→ Can peppermint extract be omitted?

While peppermint defines the flavor, vanilla extract can be used for a softer, different taste.

→ Any tips for cutting clean squares?

Use a sharp knife and allow the fudge to sit at room temperature briefly before slicing for neater pieces.