There’s something magical about peppermint fudge during the holidays. Peppermint fudge is the ultimate festive treat—cool, creamy, and loaded with chocolatey bliss. Whether you’re hosting a party, gifting homemade goodies, or just craving something sweet, this peppermint fudge recipe is your go-to holiday dessert. In just a few easy steps, you’ll have a tray of irresistible fudge that combines rich cocoa flavor with the fresh zing of peppermint. Let’s get into it!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ❄️ Festive and beautiful – Perfect for holiday platters
- 🧁 No baking required – Just chill and slice
- 💖 Family-friendly – Kids and adults alike will love it
- 🎁 Great for gifting – Wrap it up for a homemade holiday gift
- 🍫 Rich and indulgent – Cocoa and peppermint chunks in every bite
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar, lightly packed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups peppermint chunks (or crushed peppermint bark)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- 4 tablespoons crushed candy canes
- 2 tablespoons festive candy sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Mix the base: In a large bowl, cream together the butter, sugars, peppermint extract, and milk until smooth.
- Add dry ingredients: Mix in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix.
- Fold in goodies: Gently fold in the peppermint chunks and 2 tablespoons of crushed candy canes.
- Prepare the pan: Line a 9″x9″ baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- Press the mixture: Spread the dough into the pan, pressing evenly into the corners. Use a cup or spatula to flatten the surface.
- Melt chocolate topping: In a double boiler or microwave, melt the chocolate chips with the coconut oil until smooth.
- Layer it on: Pour the melted chocolate over the base and spread evenly.
- Top & chill: Sprinkle remaining crushed candy canes and sprinkles over the top. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
- Slice & serve: Let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before cutting into squares.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 32 pieces
- Estimated Cost: $10–$12 (depending on ingredients)
Nutrition Facts (Per Piece)
- Calories: 166
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Protein: 1g
- Sugar: 15g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 55mg
- Iron: 0.8mg
- Calcium: 33mg
Tips & Variations
- Use white chocolate: Swap in white chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
- Add crunch: Chopped pretzels or nuts add texture.
- Vegan version: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate.
- Flavor it up: Add a splash of vanilla or almond extract for a deeper flavor.
Peppermint Fudge
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- – Hand mixer
- – 9×9 pan
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 cups peppermint chunks
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tsp coconut oil
- 4 tbsp crushed candy canes
- 2 tbsp candy sprinkles
Instructions
- Cream butter, sugars, peppermint extract, and milk.
- Add flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix until combined.
- Fold in peppermint chunks and 2 tbsp crushed candy.
- Press into lined 9″x9″ pan.
- Melt chocolate chips and coconut oil.
- Pour chocolate over fudge base.
- Sprinkle with remaining candy canes and sprinkles.
- Chill 2 hours. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
FAQs
Can I freeze peppermint fudge?
Yes! Wrap tightly in plastic and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
What are peppermint chunks?
They’re pieces of peppermint bark or candies—use store-bought or crush your own.
Can I make this fudge without cocoa powder?
Yes, but it’ll be more like a cookie dough fudge. Cocoa adds the chocolate richness.
Conclusion
Peppermint fudge is everything a holiday treat should be—sweet, chocolatey, and joyfully minty. It’s simple enough for beginners and festive enough to impress your guests. Serve it at your holiday party, or sneak a piece with your evening tea. You’ll be hooked!