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- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips - 1 cup sweetened condensed milk - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces - 1 teaspoon peppermint extract - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (plus extra for garnish) - 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional, for drizzling) When making Chocolate Peppermint Fudge, accurate measurements matter. Use standard measuring cups and spoons. For the chocolate chips, fill the cup to the top and level it off. For butter, cut it into small pieces before measuring. This helps it melt evenly. Use a teaspoon for the peppermint extract and salt. These small amounts can change the flavor. You can swap some ingredients if needed. Use dark chocolate chips if you like a richer flavor. If you don't have sweetened condensed milk, use evaporated milk with sugar. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter. Leave out the white chocolate if you want a simpler fudge. If you prefer a different mint flavor, use mint extract instead of peppermint. {{ingredient_image_2}} Start with an 8x8 inch baking pan. Line it with parchment paper. Make sure the paper hangs over the edges. This helps later when you lift out the fudge. Grab a medium saucepan. Add the semisweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter pieces. Place the saucepan on low heat. Stir this mixture for 5-7 minutes. Keep stirring until it melts and looks smooth. It should be glossy and thick. Take the saucepan off the heat. Pour in the peppermint extract and salt. Stir well to mix everything together. Now, gently fold in the crushed candy canes. This adds a nice crunch and festive taste. Next, pour the mixture into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it out. Smooth the top so it looks nice. If you want to use white chocolate, melt it in a bowl. Heat it in 30-second bursts in the microwave. Stir until it’s smooth. Drizzle this white chocolate over the fudge for a pretty design. Finally, sprinkle more crushed candy canes on top for extra flair. Put the pan in the fridge for at least 2 hours. Wait until it feels firm. After it sets, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper. Cut it into squares and enjoy! To get the best fudge texture, use low heat when melting. High heat can burn the chocolate. Stir often to keep it smooth. The mixture should be shiny and thick. If it seems too soft, let it cool a bit before pouring it into the pan. Cooling helps it set better. One common mistake is not measuring ingredients correctly. Use a kitchen scale for chocolate and butter for best results. Another mistake is not mixing well. Every scoop should have an even mix of chocolate and candy canes. If you skip the salt, the fudge will taste flat. Always include it for flavor balance. To make your fudge look special, drizzle melted white chocolate on top. This adds a nice touch. Use a fork to create wavy lines. Then, sprinkle more crushed candy canes over the top. This gives a festive look and crunch. Arrange the fudge on a colorful plate to impress your guests. Pro Tips Use High-Quality Chocolate: The flavor of your fudge heavily relies on the quality of the chocolate you use. Opt for premium semisweet chocolate chips for a richer taste. Chill for Perfect Texture: Allow the fudge to set in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This ensures a firm texture that holds its shape beautifully when cut. Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings beyond crushed candy canes. Consider adding chopped nuts, sprinkles, or even drizzles of caramel for a unique twist. Store Properly: Keep your fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate it for longer freshness. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to maintain its flavor. {{image_4}} You can switch up flavors for fun. Try using dark chocolate instead of semisweet. This gives a richer taste. You can also add orange zest for a nice citrus twist. For a more unique twist, mix in almond extract. You can even try adding a touch of espresso for a coffee kick. The fun part is that you can mix and match flavors to find your favorite. Making this fudge vegan is easy. Use dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut milk instead of sweetened condensed milk. You can use a vegan butter substitute to keep the taste rich. For gluten-free options, check that your chocolate chips are gluten-free. This fudge can be enjoyed by everyone with these small changes. Toppings can make your fudge even better. You can add chopped nuts for some crunch. Try walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts. Drizzle caramel sauce for a sweet touch. You can also sprinkle sea salt for a nice contrast. Get creative! Use different candies or even mini marshmallows. These toppings add flavor and make your fudge look festive. Store your chocolate peppermint fudge in an airtight container. Use wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keep the fudge in a cool, dry place, away from heat and sunlight. This will help maintain its creamy texture and rich flavors. When stored properly, the fudge lasts about two weeks. If you keep it in the fridge, it can last up to three weeks. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. The flavors may change slightly over time, but it should still taste great. To freeze your fudge, cut it into squares first. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped fudge in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Yes, you can use milk chocolate. It will make your fudge sweeter. The texture will be creamier, but it will still taste great. Just keep in mind that the peppermint flavor may stand out more. To firm up your fudge, add more chocolate chips. Use a higher ratio of chocolate to condensed milk. You can also chill it longer in the fridge. Some people prefer to add a bit of powdered sugar, too. Sure, you can skip the peppermint extract. Your fudge will taste more like chocolate. You can try other flavors like vanilla or almond for a different twist. Just remember that peppermint gives it that holiday cheer. Use regular candy canes for a classic touch. Crush them into small pieces to add great crunch. You can also try flavored candy canes, like chocolate or strawberry, for a fun twist. This blog post shows you how to make fudge step by step. You learned about ingredients needed, tips for perfect texture, and fun ways to switch up flavors. Remember to store your fudge properly for the best taste. You can try new toppings or make it vegan or gluten-free. Now, go ahead and impress your friends and family with your fudge-making skills! Enjoy the sweet rewards of your efforts and have fun experimenting with new creations!

Chocolate Peppermint Fudge

A rich and festive fudge infused with peppermint and topped with crushed candy canes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 4 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1 4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 2 cup crushed candy canes (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1 2 cup white chocolate chips (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions
 

  • Begin by preparing an 8x8 inch baking pan. Line it with parchment paper, ensuring that the edges hang over the sides to facilitate easy removal later. Set the pan aside.
  • In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and pieces of unsalted butter. Place the saucepan over low heat. Stir the mixture continuously for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chocolate and butter are fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
  • Once the mixture reaches a silky consistency, remove the saucepan from heat. Incorporate the peppermint extract and salt, stirring well to combine all ingredients evenly.
  • Carefully fold in the crushed candy canes until they are uniformly distributed throughout the chocolate mixture, adding a delightful crunch and festive flavor.
  • Pour the rich fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface, smoothing out the top.
  • If you choose to use white chocolate, melt it in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring between each session, until the white chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Drizzle this melted white chocolate over the fudge in a decorative motion to create an eye-catching design.
  • Garnish the top of the fudge with additional crushed candy canes, creating a beautiful, festive finish.
  • Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and allow the fudge to set for a minimum of 2 hours or until it is firm to the touch.
  • Once the fudge is set, lift it out of the pan using the overhanging parchment paper. Carefully cut the fudge into squares for serving.

Notes

For an extra-special touch, sprinkle additional crushed candy canes or fresh mint leaves around the fudge.
Keyword chocolate, dessert, fudge, holiday, peppermint