Rich, creamy and intensely chocolatey, this Christmas Peppermint Chocolate Fudge is an easy holiday treat topped with crushed peppermint candy for a festive red-and-white finish. It’s perfect for Christmas dessert trays, edible gifts and holiday parties—and it gives our cookbook another dessert that looks completely different from the pies, cheesecake and gingerbread.
Ingredients
Method
- Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang to easily lift the fudge from the pan.
- Add the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk and butter to a medium saucepan.
- Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is thick, glossy and smooth.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla, peppermint extract and salt.
- Immediately spread the fudge mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies over the top and gently press them into the warm fudge.
- If using, drizzle melted white chocolate lightly across the top for an extra festive finish.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until completely firm.
- Lift the chilled fudge from the pan using the parchment paper and cut into small squares.
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🔄 Variations
🍫 Dark Chocolate Peppermint Fudge: Use dark chocolate chips for a deeper chocolate flavor.
🤍 White Chocolate Peppermint Fudge: Replace the semi-sweet chocolate with white chocolate for a snowy Christmas variation.
🥜 Chocolate Nut Fudge: Add chopped toasted pecans or walnuts and omit the peppermint.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
🎄 Arrange on a Christmas dessert platter with gingerbread cookies.
🎁 Package small pieces in decorative boxes for homemade holiday gifts.
☕ Serve with hot chocolate or coffee after Christmas dinner.
🧊 Storage
Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, separating layers with parchment or wax paper.
For longer storage, freeze well-wrapped fudge for up to 2 months.
💡 Pro Tips
Use good-quality chocolate because chocolate is the dominant flavor in this simple recipe.
Keep the heat low while melting the chocolate. High heat can cause the mixture to become grainy or scorch.
Peppermint extract is strong, so measure carefully. A little goes a long way.
For neat squares, chill the fudge thoroughly and wipe the knife clean between cuts.
❓ FAQs
Can I make Peppermint Chocolate Fudge ahead of Christmas?
Yes. Its long refrigerator life makes it an excellent make-ahead Christmas treat.
Can I use candy canes for the topping?
Absolutely. Place them in a sealed bag and crush them before sprinkling over the fudge.
Do I need a candy thermometer?
No. This condensed-milk fudge doesn’t require traditional candy-making temperatures.
Can I leave out the peppermint extract?
Yes. You’ll still get peppermint flavor from the crushed candies, but it will be milder.
Why is my fudge too soft?
Make sure you use sweetened condensed milk rather than evaporated milk and allow the fudge to chill completely before cutting.