Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe
This Peppermint Swirl Fudge combines rich semi-sweet chocolate and creamy white chocolate layers, flavored with refreshing peppermint extract and swirled together for a festive look. Topped with crushed peppermint candies, this decadent treat is perfect for holiday gifting or indulging in a sweet seasonal dessert.
- Author: Maya
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 25 squares 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
For the Chocolate Layer
- 2 cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk, room temperature
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Peppermint Swirl Layer
- 1 ½ cups white chocolate chips (use real white chocolate, not almond bark)
- ½ tablespoon unsalted butter
- ⅓ cup sweetened condensed milk, room temperature
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1–2 drops red gel food coloring
For the Topping
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
- Prep the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides to lift the fudge easily. Lightly coat the parchment with nonstick spray and place the pan on a flat surface to prepare for the fudge layers.
- Make the Chocolate Fudge Base: In a heatproof bowl, combine the semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips, butter, and room temperature sweetened condensed milk. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water to create a double boiler, stirring constantly until the mixture is melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the peppermint extract and a pinch of salt to enhance flavor.
- Make the Peppermint Swirl Layer: In a separate heatproof bowl, combine white chocolate chips, butter, and sweetened condensed milk. Melt gently over the double boiler, stirring until fully smooth. Stir in peppermint extract and 1–2 drops of red gel food coloring. Swirl lightly with a spoon to achieve streaks of color without fully blending.
- Layer and Swirl: Pour about three-quarters of the chocolate mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the red peppermint mixture onto the surface, then add the remaining chocolate mixture into the gaps. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the two mixtures together creating figure-eight patterns without overmixing to achieve a beautiful marbled effect.
- Add the Topping: Evenly sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies over the surface of the swirled fudge. Press gently to help the candies adhere firmly to the top layer.
- Chill and Set: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours or until the fudge is fully set and firm. Once chilled, use the parchment overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan and cut it into 25 equal squares with a sharp knife for serving.
Notes
- Use high-quality chocolate chips and real white chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
- Be careful not to over-swirl the peppermint layer to preserve the distinct colors and visual appeal.
- The fudge needs to chill thoroughly for clean slicing, so do not rush the setting time.
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- For a nut-free treat, ensure all ingredients are certified nut-free.
Keywords: peppermint fudge, peppermint swirl fudge, holiday fudge, Christmas dessert, no-bake fudge, peppermint candy fudge