If you’re searching for that perfect sweet treat to bring festive joy to your holiday gatherings, this Christmas Chocolate Peppermint Fudge Recipe is an absolute game changer. Imagine a luscious, creamy chocolate fudge infused with refreshing peppermint and crowned with crunchy crushed candy canes — each bite is a delightful explosion of classic Christmas flavors. It’s not only incredibly simple to make but also wonderfully impressive whether you’re sharing it as a gift or enjoying it by the fireside. Let me take you through how to create this festive favorite that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Christmas Chocolate Peppermint Fudge Recipe lies in just a handful of wonderfully simple ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in crafting the perfect texture, flavor, and festive flair that make this fudge so irresistible.
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips: These provide a rich, smooth chocolate base that melts beautifully and balances the peppermint perfectly.
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk: This adds creamy sweetness and gives the fudge that perfectly soft yet firm texture.
- 1 tsp peppermint extract: The holiday star ingredient that infuses the fudge with cool, refreshing peppermint flavor.
- Crushed candy canes: For that iconic Christmas crunch and colorful, festive topping that makes each bite extra special.
How to Make Christmas Chocolate Peppermint Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This small prep step makes all the difference by ensuring the fudge removes easily once set and keeps the edges smooth. Trust me, it saves a lot of frustration later!
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Condensed Milk
Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a heatproof bowl over low heat (or use a double boiler). Stir gently and continuously until the chocolate melts completely into a glossy, silky mixture. This slow melting keeps the texture silky smooth without burning the chocolate.
Step 3: Add Peppermint Extract
Remove the chocolate mixture from heat and stir in one teaspoon of peppermint extract. This small addition transforms the fudge, infusing it with that unmistakable holiday spirit. Be careful not to overdo it—one teaspoon gives the perfect balance of minty flavor that isn’t overpowering.
Step 4: Pour and Top with Crushed Candy Canes
Pour the luscious chocolate peppermint mixture into your parchment-lined pan, spreading it evenly. Immediately sprinkle crushed candy canes generously over the top so they stick perfectly as the fudge sets. The candy canes add not only a beautiful visual touch but also a crisp, peppermint crunch that’s pure Christmas joy.
Step 5: Chill Until Firm and Slice
Place the pan in the refrigerator and let the fudge chill for at least 2 hours, or until completely firm. Once set, lift the fudge out by the parchment paper, slice into squares, and get ready for the ultimate holiday sweet experience.
How to Serve Christmas Chocolate Peppermint Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
While the crushed candy canes on top are already festive and tasty, you can add an extra sprinkle of mini white chocolate chips, a light dusting of powdered sugar, or a few small peppermint sticks alongside for a charming presentation that’s sure to catch the eye.
Side Dishes
This Christmas Chocolate Peppermint Fudge Recipe pairs wonderfully with hot cocoa, mulled wine, or even a cup of strong coffee to balance its sweetness. Serving it alongside a holiday cookie platter or fresh fruit can also add beautiful variety to your festive dessert table.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap individual fudge squares in colorful parchment paper tied with twine for adorable homemade gifts. Or layer pieces in a clear jar with red and white ribbons for a charming edible present. This fudge also looks stunning arranged on tiered trays for holiday parties, instantly becoming the centerpiece of any dessert spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover fudge stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This helps maintain its chewy texture and lovely peppermint flavor. Just make sure it’s kept away from direct sunlight or warmth to prevent melting.
Freezing
If you want to make a bigger batch ahead of time, fudge freezes beautifully. Wrap pieces individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best texture.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t recommended as it can alter the texture. Simply allow frozen or refrigerated fudge pieces to sit out for a bit to soften slightly before indulging.
FAQs
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give your fudge a richer, slightly more intense flavor. Just keep in mind the bitterness increases, so you might want to adjust the amount of peppermint or candy cane topping to balance it out.
Is peppermint extract the same as peppermint oil?
They’re not exactly the same. Peppermint extract is meant for culinary use and has a milder, more subtle flavor, while peppermint oil is more concentrated. For this Christmas Chocolate Peppermint Fudge Recipe, peppermint extract is safer and yields the best flavor.
Can I make this fudge vegan or dairy-free?
This recipe relies on sweetened condensed milk and chocolate that contains dairy. However, you could experiment using a dairy-free condensed milk alternative and vegan chocolate chips, though the texture and taste may vary slightly from the classic.
How long does the fudge take to set properly?
Typically, it will take at least 2 hours in the refrigerator to firm up completely. For best results, chilling overnight ensures perfect slicing and an ideal texture.
Can I add nuts or other toppings?
Definitely! Chopped nuts like almonds or pecans blend wonderfully into the fudge base or sprinkled on top. Just remember that extra mix-ins will change the texture and may affect how the fudge sets, so adjust accordingly.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Chocolate Peppermint Fudge Recipe is truly one of those joyous holiday treats that becomes an instant classic. Its rich chocolate base combined with crisp peppermint makes every bite feel like a festive celebration. Whether you’re gifting it, serving it at a party, or sneaking a piece by yourself, this fudge promises to bring warmth and sweetness to your holiday season. Give it a try—you won’t regret adding this cheerful recipe to your Christmas traditions!
Print
Christmas Chocolate Peppermint Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 36 pieces 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Christmas Chocolate Peppermint Fudge is a smooth, rich, and festive treat, perfect for holiday gifting and celebrations. Made with semi-sweet chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and flavored with refreshing peppermint extract, it is topped with crushed candy canes for a delightful crunch and seasonal appeal.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
Topping
- Crushed candy canes, about 1/4 cup
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper overhangs the edges for easy removal of the fudge.
- Melt chocolate and milk: In a heatproof bowl over low heat or a double boiler, gently melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with the sweetened condensed milk, stirring continuously until smooth and fully combined.
- Add peppermint extract: Remove the mixture from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract evenly to infuse the fudge with holiday flavor.
- Pour and top: Spread the chocolate mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Immediately sprinkle the crushed candy canes evenly over the top, pressing lightly so they adhere.
- Chill and set: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours or until the fudge is firm to the touch.
- Slice and serve: Once set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge from the pan. Cut into squares and serve or package for gifting.
Notes
- Use high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for best flavor and texture.
- Ensure crushed candy canes are finely broken to avoid overly hard chunks in the fudge.
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- For a milder peppermint flavor, reduce the peppermint extract to 1/2 teaspoon.
- Room temperature fudge softens quickly; keep chilled until ready to serve.
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