Easy Peppermint Fudge – Festive Christmas Treat in Minutes

Peppermint fudge is a simple, sweet treat that combines rich chocolate with refreshing peppermint flavor. It usually only takes a few easy-to-find ingredients like chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and crushed peppermint candies.

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You can make this festive fudge quickly without any baking, making it perfect for holiday gifting or a cozy treat at home.

This creamy, melt-in-your-mouth dessert is loved for its smooth texture and bright mint taste. Whether you want something to share at a party or a quick homemade snack, peppermint fudge is an easy recipe that anyone can enjoy making.

You don’t need to be a baking expert to create this delicious treat that fits right into the holiday spirit.

How to Make Peppermint Fudge

Making peppermint fudge involves a few simple ingredients, careful melting, and some key steps to get the right texture. You’ll need to gather what’s essential, follow clear instructions, and know a few tricks to make your fudge smooth and creamy.

Related Recipe: Classic Old-Fashioned Divinity Candy Recipe

Peppermint Fudge Recipe

Ingredients:

3 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon peppermint extract
½ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Pinch of salt

Instructions:

Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang on the sides for easy removal.

In a medium saucepan, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Place over low heat and stir continuously until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and salt until fully combined.
Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly with a spatula.

Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies over the top, pressing them lightly into the surface.

Let the fudge cool at room temperature for about 2 hours, then transfer to the refrigerator to chill until firm, about 1–2 more hours.

Once set, lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper and cut it into small squares.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness., lift it out of the pan using the foil or parchment edges and cut into squares.

Tips for Perfect Texture

Avoid overheating the chocolate, which can cause it to seize or become grainy. Heat slowly and stir often.

Use room temperature ingredients to help everything melt evenly.

If your fudge looks too soft after chilling, let it sit longer or briefly return it to the fridge. For extra creaminess, adding a touch of butter while melting helps.

Crushing candies finely will spread flavor better and prevent big chunks from breaking the fudge apart. Gentle pressing helps candies stick without sinking.

Creative Peppermint Fudge Variations

You can easily make peppermint fudge your own by adding different textures, adjusting it for special diets, or using alternative ingredients. These ideas help you enjoy peppermint fudge in new ways without losing its festive flavor.

Adding Mix-Ins

Mix-ins add texture and extra flavor to your peppermint fudge. Try stirring in chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for a crunchy bite. You can also add crushed candy canes or peppermint candies for more minty zest and crunch.

If you want a rich twist, mini chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks work well. Adding dried cranberries gives a sweet and tart contrast. Use about ½ cup of any mix-ins so they don’t overpower the creamy fudge. Mixing them in right before the fudge sets is best.

Gluten-Free Options

Peppermint fudge is naturally gluten-free if you use the right ingredients. Make sure all your chocolates and flavorings don’t have any gluten hidden in them. Avoid fudge recipes with cookie or cake mix additions unless labeled gluten-free.

You can add gluten-free mix-ins like toasted nuts or gluten-free pretzel pieces for texture. Check labels on any added peppermint candies, as some may have gluten-containing ingredients. Keeping it gluten-free means you won’t miss out on this sweet treat at holiday gatherings.

Vegan and Dairy-Free Versions

To make vegan peppermint fudge, swap the usual sweetened condensed milk and chocolate for dairy-free options. Use coconut condensed milk or a mixture of coconut cream and sugar. Dark chocolate without milk solids works great.

For peppermint flavor, choose peppermint extract instead of peppermint candies that might contain dairy. Be sure to check that your chocolate and other ingredients are labeled vegan. This way, you get a creamy, minty fudge that fits your plant-based diet without losing any charm.

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