Description
This creamy peppermint fudge is an easy, festive homemade holiday candy with a luscious texture and big peppermint flavor. No candy thermometer needed—just melt, mix, chill, and enjoy rich, pepperminty squares perfect for gifting or parties.
Ingredients
- 3 cups white chocolate chips (about 18 oz)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons peppermint extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes, plus more for topping
- Optional: 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- Optional: a few drops red food coloring
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease if desired.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir constantly until smooth and melted.
- Remove from heat. Stir in peppermint extract and salt. Taste and adjust peppermint extract if needed.
- Fold in crushed candy canes (and optional mini chocolate chips or food coloring). Swirl food coloring with a toothpick for a marbled effect if using.
- Pour mixture into prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula or spoon. Sprinkle extra crushed candy canes on top and press gently.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm. Overnight is best for flavor and texture.
- Lift fudge out using parchment overhang. Cut into small squares, wiping knife between cuts for clean edges.
Notes
For best results, use good-quality white chocolate chips. Measure peppermint extract carefully—start with less and add to taste. Chill overnight for clean slices and deeper flavor. The base recipe is naturally gluten-free; check candy canes and extract labels if needed. Fudge can be customized with chocolate chips, nuts, or food coloring. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 week, in the fridge for 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (1-inch squa
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 16
- Sodium: 35
- Fat: 4
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Carbohydrates: 17
- Protein: 1
Keywords: peppermint fudge, holiday candy, Christmas dessert, easy fudge, homemade gifts, white chocolate fudge, creamy fudge, festive treats