If there’s one sweet that instantly captures that cool, chocolate-minty magic of the holidays, it’s this Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe. Rich, creamy, and bursting with festive flavor, every square delivers the perfect balance of smooth chocolate and refreshing peppermint crunch. Whether you’re gifting tins to friends or savored with a cozy mug of hot cocoa at home, this fuss-free treat never fails to delight chocolate lovers and mint fans alike!
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple, familiar ingredients, this fudge manages to taste absolutely extraordinary. Each component brings a special something: depth from chocolate, richness from condensed milk and butter, freshness from peppermint, and irresistible holiday sparkle from the crushed candy canes.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (3 cups): The heart of the fudge, these provide rich, classic chocolate flavor and a silky-smooth base.
- Sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 14 ounces): Delivers creaminess and the ideal fudgy texture without any need for evaporated milk or extra sugar.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): Adds richness and a glossy sheen, ensuring every bite melts in your mouth.
- Peppermint extract (1/2 teaspoon): A little goes a long way! It infuses the fudge with that signature cool, minty zing.
- Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (1/2 cup): For festive color and crunch, sprinkle them generously over the top.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough to balance the sweetness and heighten the chocolaty flavor.
How to Make Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Leave a little overhang on the sides; this makes it a breeze to lift the finished fudge out for slicing. Trust me, a neatly lined pan is your ticket to picture-perfect squares every time!
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir gently and continuously, letting everything melt together into a silky, unified mixture. Take your time here and keep the heat nice and low—slow melting means smooth, lump-free fudge!
Step 3: Add Peppermint and Salt
Once the chocolate mixture is completely smooth, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the peppermint extract and salt. The aroma will instantly put you in a holiday mood—minty freshness meets decadent chocolate!
Step 4: Pour and Top
Quickly pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan, then use a spatula to smooth it evenly to the edges. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes or peppermint candies on top, gently pressing them in so they adhere for that merry, crackly finish.
Step 5: Chill to Set
Pop the pan into your refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This is when the fudge works its magic, firming up to the perfect sliceable texture. If you can resist, try leaving it a bit longer for even cleaner cuts.
Step 6: Cut and Enjoy!
Lift the set fudge out using the parchment overhang, then cut it into neat little squares. Each piece is pure chocolate-peppermint joy! Your Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe is officially ready to serve—happy snacking.
How to Serve Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of extra crushed candy canes adds extra sparkle and holiday crunch. For an elevated touch, drizzle a little melted white chocolate over the top before the final chill—it not only looks beautiful but also adds a creamy, sweet contrast to the minty fudge.
Side Dishes
Pair these fudge squares with a steamy mug of hot chocolate or fresh-brewed coffee for the coziest experience. If you want to offer a dessert spread, arrange your peppermint fudge alongside soft gingersnaps or buttery shortbread cookies—the flavors all play together like a holiday symphony.
Creative Ways to Present
Gift a batch in a pretty tin lined with parchment or wrap individual pieces in wax paper for festive party favors. For a showstopping centerpiece, arrange the fudge in a pyramid or on a tiered dessert tray with sprigs of fresh mint and candy canes tucked around the edges.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe fresh by storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay perfectly rich and creamy for up to two weeks, just waiting for your next chocolate craving.
Freezing
Need to prep ahead? This fudge freezes beautifully! Wrap the squares tightly in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to three months. Just let them thaw in the fridge before serving and they’ll taste as merry as the day you made them.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so there’s really no need to reheat. If you like yours a bit softer, simply let the squares sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving to preserve that dreamy, smooth texture.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Milk chocolate will make the fudge a bit sweeter and more mellow, so feel free to experiment based on your taste preferences. Just keep the other measurements and steps the same for delicious results.
How do I keep the fudge from sticking to the pan?
Lining your pan with parchment paper and letting the edges hang over the sides is the secret to effortless removal. Once the fudge is chilled, just lift it out with the paper—no sticking, no mess!
Can I double the Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe?
You bet! Double all ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan for a larger batch. Just be sure to chill the fudge long enough to ensure it sets evenly throughout.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, every ingredient in this Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just check your candy canes and peppermint extract to confirm there are no unexpected additives.
Can I use peppermint essential oil instead of extract?
Stick with culinary-grade peppermint extract, as essential oils can be very concentrated and may not be food-safe. Extract gives you the perfect minty balance for this fudge.
Final Thoughts
The best recipes are simple, reliable, and full of joy—just like this Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe. Whether you’re new to candy making or a seasoned home baker, this fudge is a breeze to whip up and a true crowd-pleaser. I hope you find as much delight in every chocolate-minty bite as I do—give it a try and share the sweetness!
Print
Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 36 small squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in the festive flavors of the season with this easy peppermint fudge recipe. Rich and creamy chocolate fudge gets a refreshing twist with a hint of peppermint and a sprinkling of crushed candy canes. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat for yourself!
Ingredients
Chocolate Fudge:
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Peppermint Flavoring:
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- Melt the Ingredients: In a saucepan over low heat, melt chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter until smooth.
- Add Flavor: Stir in peppermint extract and salt. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top, pressing gently. Chill for at least 2 hours.
- Serve: Lift the fudge out using the parchment overhang, cut into squares, and enjoy!
Notes
- For a decorative touch, drizzle melted white chocolate over the fudge before chilling.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Candy
- Method: No-Bake, Refrigerated
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 45 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
