Easy Chocolate Peppermint Fudge

Every holiday season, I find myself craving the sweet, rich flavors of an Easy Chocolate Peppermint Fudge. There’s something incredibly special about indulging in this treat while surrounded by loved ones, with the scent of fresh peppermint and chocolate wafting through the air. I remember the first time I made this fudge; it was a chilly winter evening, and I had friends over for a cozy movie night. As we gathered around, I brought out this delightful confection, and the smiles on their faces said it all. Each bite was a perfect blend of creamy chocolate and refreshing peppermint, making it an instant hit!

What You’ll Need for Easy Chocolate Peppermint Fudge

To create the perfect Easy Chocolate Peppermint Fudge, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients that complement each other beautifully. The combination of sweetened condensed milk, chocolate, and butter forms a rich, creamy base, while the peppermint extract and crushed candy canes provide that delightful holiday flavor. Each ingredient works together harmoniously to produce a dessert that’s both rich and refreshing.

• 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk – This creamy base adds sweetness and binds all the ingredients together, making the fudge rich and decadent.
• 18 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, roughly chopped – The star ingredient that brings a deep chocolate flavor, melting beautifully to create a smooth texture.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 1/2-inch pieces, at room temperature – Adds richness and a silky finish to the fudge.
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract – Infuses the fudge with a refreshing minty flavor, perfect for the holiday season.
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Balances the flavors, enhancing the overall sweetness and depth.
• 1/3 cup crushed candy canes – Sprinkled on top, they add a festive crunch and a burst of peppermint flavor.

How to Cook Easy Chocolate Peppermint Fudge

Making Easy Chocolate Peppermint Fudge is a breeze! You’ll be thrilled with how quickly you can put this together. Follow these simple steps, and soon you’ll be enjoying your homemade fudge.

1. Start by lightly greasing an 8 x 8-inch baking pan. This step is crucial because it ensures that your fudge will come out easily when it’s time to slice. Then, line the pan with parchment paper, leaving some excess paper to overhang the sides. This will help you lift the fudge out later.

2. In a large, heatproof bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate, and butter. Make sure to set this bowl aside for a moment. The warmth from the steaming water will help melt the chocolate smoothly.

3. Now, fill a saucepan with water, about 1/4 full, and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a barely simmer. Carefully place your heatproof bowl holding the ingredients on top of the pot. This double boiler method will prevent the chocolate from burning.

4. Stir frequently as the chocolate melts. You want to keep an eye on it to achieve a completely smooth and glossy texture, which should take about 8 minutes. When it’s melted, remove the bowl from the heat.

5. The mixture will be thick—this is just what you want! Using a sturdy spatula, stir in the peppermint extract and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated, ensuring that the extracts are evenly distributed.

6. Next, scrape the fudge mixture into the prepared pan. Use the spatula to smooth the top, making it level. This step is important for even slicing later.

7. Sprinkle the top with the crushed candy canes, pressing them gently into the fudge. This will not only add a pop of color but also a delightful crunch.

8. Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours. This will allow it to set properly. You can also leave it overnight if you want to prepare it in advance.

9. Once set, it’s time to remove the fudge from the pan. Gently run a butter knife around the edge to loosen it. Use the excess parchment paper to lift the fudge out onto a cutting board.

10. Now, peel off the parchment paper and slice the fudge into small, bite-sized pieces. Serve at once or store in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. If you want to save some for later, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to two months.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are endless ways to make this Easy Chocolate Peppermint Fudge even more delightful. Here are some fun variations and tips to consider:

• Storage: To store leftovers, keep the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. It’s best enjoyed chilled!
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this fudge! Just make sure it’s in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to two months.
• Flavor Twists: Experiment with different flavors of extracts, like orange or almond, for a unique fudge experience.
• Mix-Ins: Consider adding nuts or dried fruits to the fudge mixture before setting for added texture and flavor.
• Gifting: Wrap pieces in decorative cellophane and tie with a ribbon for a wonderful handmade gift.
• Serving Size: Cut the fudge into small squares for easy serving. It’s rich, so smaller pieces are usually preferred.

Side Dish Ideas for Easy Chocolate Peppermint Fudge

When it comes to serving your Easy Chocolate Peppermint Fudge, think about pairing it with complementary flavors and textures. Here are some great ideas to consider:

• Hot Cocoa: Serve alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy treat.
• Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the rich fudge, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
• Fruit Platters: Fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries offer a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the fudge.
• Charcuterie Board: Include fudge on a dessert charcuterie board, alongside nuts, cheeses, and other sweets for variety.
• Holiday Parties: Perfect for holiday gatherings, this fudge is a delightful addition to any dessert table, bringing a festive touch.
• Movie Night: Cut into bite-sized pieces to enjoy during movie nights; it’s a great sweet treat for everyone.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Easy Chocolate Peppermint Fudge is truly a festive delight that bridges the gap between rich chocolate and refreshing mint in a way that feels indulgent yet simple. The joy it brings during gatherings and celebrations is unmatched, making it a favorite among friends and family. I encourage you to try making it for your next occasion; you’ll be surprised at how quickly it becomes a beloved tradition in your household!

Easy Chocolate Peppermint Fudge

Satisfy your sweet tooth with this Easy Chocolate Peppermint Fudge, a delightful blend of creamy chocolate and refreshing peppermint. Perfect for the holidays or any time you're craving something sweet, this easy recipe will become your go-to treat. Make it tonight and enjoy!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 18 pieces

Calories 140 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Frying Pan
• Saucepan
• Peeler

Ingredients

  

• 1 can sweetened condensed milk
• 18 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, roughly chopped
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 1/2-inch pieces, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup crushed candy canes

Instructions

 

• Lightly grease an 8 x 8-inch baking pan. Line the pan with parchment paper, allowing the excess paper to overhang the sides, set aside.
• In a large, heatproof bowl combine the sweetened condensed milk, semi-sweet chocolate, and unsalted butter; set aside.
• Fill a saucepan with water (you want it about 1/4 full) and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to barely a simmer. Place your heatproof glass bowl holding your ingredients on top of the pot.
• Stir frequently, until the chocolate has melted and the mixture is completely smooth, about 8 minutes.
• Remove from heat. The mixture will be very thick. Using a sturdy spatula, stir in the peppermint extract and pure vanilla extract. Then scrape the fudge into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
• Sprinkle with crushed candy canes. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
• Gently run a butter knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the fudge. Remove the fudge and transfer it to a cutting board.
• Peel off parchment paper, then slice the fudge into small pieces. Serve at once or store in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. You may also freeze the fudge, in an airtight freezer safe container for up to two months.

Notes

• Storage: To store leftovers, keep the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. It’s best enjoyed chilled!
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this fudge! Just make sure it's in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to two months.
• Flavor Twists: Experiment with different flavors of extracts, like orange or almond, for a unique fudge experience.
• Mix-Ins: Consider adding nuts or dried fruits to the fudge mixture before setting for added texture and flavor.
• Gifting: Wrap pieces in decorative cellophane and tie with a ribbon for a wonderful handmade gift.
• Serving Size: Cut the fudge into small squares for easy serving. It's rich, so smaller pieces are usually preferred.

Keyword chocolate fudge, easy dessert, holiday recipes, peppermint fudge

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Meet Sophia Hayes

I founded YumRecettes to turn my messy, joyful kitchen experiments into something I could share. While I steer the ship, I am first and foremost a cook. I love tackling every type of recipe, from grandmother’s old classics to modern fusion dishes. For me, the magic isn’t in a specific type of food, but in the act of preparing it. I’m usually the one urging the team to try that “one last idea” that ends up making the dish perfect.