Name: Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 3 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; 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; ½ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Peppermint Swirl Fudge is a delightful holiday treat combining rich chocolate and creamy white chocolate with refreshing peppermint flavor. Its festive red swirls and crunchy peppermint topping make it perfect for sharing or gifting during the season.

The image shows square pieces of layered peppermint fudge with a marbled mix of dark brown chocolate and creamy white layers swirling through the middle and sides, creating a smooth, flowing pattern. Each piece is topped with white and red crushed peppermint candy bits scattered unevenly on the glossy chocolate surface. One piece in the front has a bite taken out, revealing the thick, creamy layers inside. The fudge pieces rest on a white marbled texture, highlighting their rich textures and colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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
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
½ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes

Instructions

Step 1: Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides to lift the fudge easily. Lightly coat with nonstick spray and place on a flat surface.
Step 2: In a heatproof bowl, combine chocolate chips, 1 tablespoon butter, and the 14 oz can of room temperature sweetened condensed milk. Set the bowl over a pot of simmering water and stir constantly until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in ½ teaspoon peppermint extract and a pinch of salt.
Step 3: In a separate heatproof bowl, combine white chocolate chips, ½ tablespoon butter, and ⅓ cup room temperature sweetened condensed milk. Melt gently over a double boiler, stirring until fully smooth. Stir in ½ teaspoon peppermint extract and 1 to 2 drops of red gel food coloring. Swirl gently with a spoon to create streaks without blending the color completely.
Step 4: Pour about three-quarters of the chocolate mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the red peppermint mixture across the surface, then add the remaining chocolate mixture in the gaps. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the two mixtures together, creating figure-eight patterns without overmixing.
Step 5: Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies evenly over the surface of the swirled fudge. Press gently to help them adhere to the top layer.
Step 6: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours, or until fully set and firm. Once chilled, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into 25 squares with a sharp knife.

Tips & Variations

For an extra festive touch, use crushed candy canes with different colors or add a drop of peppermint extract to the crushed candies before sprinkling.
If you prefer a stronger peppermint flavor, increase the peppermint extract by ¼ teaspoon in each layer.
Use high-quality chocolate chips for the best flavor and smooth texture.
To make melting easier, chop the chocolate chips slightly for faster melting over the double boiler.

Storage

Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly. You can also freeze the fudge for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

How to Serve

A stack of square fudge pieces is arranged on a white plate, each piece showing two layers swirled together: a dark brown chocolate layer mixed with a creamy white layer, creating a marbled pattern. The top of each fudge square is sprinkled with small white marshmallows and crushed red and white peppermint candy pieces. Around the plate, some small peppermint candy pieces and fudge squares are scattered on a white marbled surface. The background shows soft, warm lights that are blurred, adding a cozy feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use almond bark instead of white chocolate?

It’s best to use real white chocolate chips rather than almond bark for the peppermint swirl layer, as white chocolate provides a creamier texture and better flavor.

How do I prevent the peppermint extract from making the fudge grainy?

Add peppermint extract after removing the mixture from heat and stirring well. Use only the recommended amount to maintain smoothness and avoid a grainy texture.