Chocolate peppermint fudge is like a holiday hug for your taste buds, wrapping you in its rich, creamy goodness. Picture this: each bite melts effortlessly in your mouth while a cool burst of peppermint dances on your palate. It’s the ultimate festive treat that gets everyone in the spirit, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or an extravagant cookie exchange.
Now, let me take you down memory lane. I remember the first time I made chocolate peppermint fudge; it was during a particularly chaotic holiday season. The kitchen was bustling with family members, laughter echoed through the halls, and my mom had just declared a baking contest. Spoiler alert: I lost. But that fudge? Oh, it stole the show! With its tantalizing aroma wafting through the air, it became a mainstay at every holiday gathering since then. Trust me; you won’t want to miss out on this flavor experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chocolate peppermint fudge is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for last-minute gifts or sweet treats at parties.
- Each bite bursts with rich chocolate flavor balanced by refreshing peppermint, leaving you craving more.
- Its stunning presentation makes it an eye-catching addition to any dessert platter or holiday table.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings or mix-ins!
Ingredients for chocolate peppermint fudge
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This magical ingredient provides creaminess and sweetness, making your fudge irresistibly smooth.
- Semisweet Chocolate Chips: Choose high-quality chips for rich chocolate flavor; they melt beautifully for that fudgy texture.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to balance the sweetness; it adds richness that elevates your fudge.
- Peppermint Extract: A few drops of this minty goodness will give your fudge that distinctive holiday flavor.
- Candy Canes: Crushed candy canes add crunch and festive flair; they’re also perfect for sprinkling on top!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make chocolate peppermint fudge
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. This will make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, semisweet chocolate chips, and butter. Stir continuously until everything is melted and smooth like velvet.
Step 3: Add Peppermint Extract
Once melted, remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract until well combined. You want that candy-cane aroma wafting through your kitchen—it’s pure bliss!
Step 4: Pour into Baking Dish
Pour the luscious chocolate mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly using a spatula. Don’t worry if it looks too good; you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy licking the spatula later!
Step 5: Sprinkle Candy Canes
Before the fudge sets completely (about five minutes after pouring), sprinkle crushed candy canes evenly across the top. Press them down gently so they stick—this is where things get festive!
Step 6: Chill Until Set
Refrigerate for at least two hours or until fully set (you know it’s ready when you can’t resist sneaking a piece). Once set, lift out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into squares.
Serve these delightful bites at your next gathering or keep them all to yourself—no judgment here! Drizzle with extra melted chocolate or top with whipped cream for a decadent finishing touch!
You Must Know
- This chocolate peppermint fudge recipe is not just about deliciousness; it’s a holiday tradition!
- The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates a delightful treat.
- Perfect for gift-giving or indulging during cozy nights in.
- You can whip it up in no time!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by melting the chocolate and sweetened condensed milk together over low heat, stirring until smooth. While that’s happening, prepare your peppermint extract, and set aside crushed candy canes. Once melted, mix in the extract and candy canes for a festive finish.
Add Your Touch
Want to make your fudge unique? Swap out peppermint for almond extract for a nutty twist or add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. You might even experiment with different types of chocolate—dark, white, or even swirls of both!
Storing & Reheating
Store your fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it in small portions. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature—no reheating necessary!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best texture, ensure that the chocolate is fully melted before adding other ingredients.
- Don’t rush the cooling process; let it set completely for clean cuts.
- Use high-quality chocolate to elevate flavor and richness.
I remember making this fudge one Christmas Eve while listening to cheesy holiday tunes. My family couldn’t resist sneaking pieces before it even cooled down! It turned into a fun game of “who can steal a piece without getting caught.”
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for chocolate peppermint fudge?
To make delicious chocolate peppermint fudge, you will need key ingredients such as semi-sweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, unsalted butter, and peppermint extract. You can also include crushed peppermint candies or candy canes for added flavor and garnish. This recipe is simple and requires minimal preparation, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or a sweet treat anytime.
How long does chocolate peppermint fudge last?
When stored properly, chocolate peppermint fudge can last up to two weeks at room temperature. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider refrigerating the fudge, where it can last up to three weeks. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Can I make chocolate peppermint fudge ahead of time?
Absolutely! Chocolate peppermint fudge is an ideal make-ahead treat. You can prepare it a week or more in advance and store it in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time. Just remember to cut it into squares only when you’re ready to serve for a clean look and easy handling.
Can I customize the flavors in my chocolate peppermint fudge?
Yes! While the classic version features minty goodness, you can customize your fudge by adding other extracts like vanilla or almond. Swapping out semi-sweet chocolate for white chocolate or dark chocolate also creates unique variations. Feel free to experiment with mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit to tailor the recipe to your taste preferences.
Conclusion for chocolate peppermint fudge
In summary, chocolate peppermint fudge is a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate with refreshing mint flavor. It requires minimal ingredients and preparation time, making it a perfect choice for any occasion, especially during the holidays. Whether enjoyed fresh or made ahead of time, this fudge is sure to impress family and friends alike. Don’t hesitate to explore flavor variations and create your own unique twist on this classic recipe!
Chocolate Peppermint Fudge
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in this creamy, rich chocolate peppermint fudge—a delightful holiday treat that melts in your mouth and brings festive cheer to any gathering!
Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Prepare Your Baking Dish: Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Melt the Chocolate Mixture: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and butter. Stir continuously until melted and smooth.
- Add Peppermint Extract: Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract until well combined.
- Pour into Baking Dish: Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle Candy Canes: Before the fudge sets, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top and gently press them down.
- Chill Until Set: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully set. Lift out of the pan using parchment overhang and cut into squares.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (28g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: For a unique twist, consider swapping peppermint extract for almond extract. Add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
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