Print

Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe

4.4 from 743 reviews

This Peppermint Swirl Fudge recipe features a rich chocolate base layered with a festive white chocolate peppermint swirl, topped with crushed peppermint candies. Perfect for holiday gifting or enjoying a sweet seasonal treat, it combines smooth, creamy fudge with refreshing peppermint flavor and vibrant swirled colors.

Ingredients

Scale

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

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
  • 12 drops red gel food coloring

Topping

  • ½ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes

Instructions

  1. Prep the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides to easily lift the fudge out later. Lightly coat the parchment with nonstick spray and place the pan on a flat surface.
  2. Make the Chocolate Fudge Base: In a heatproof bowl, combine the chocolate chips, butter, and room temperature sweetened condensed milk. Set the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler) and stir constantly until the mixture is melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract and a pinch of salt.
  3. Prepare the Peppermint Swirl Layer: In another heatproof bowl, combine white chocolate chips, butter, and sweetened condensed milk. Melt gently over a double boiler, stirring until completely smooth. Stir in peppermint extract and 1–2 drops of red gel food coloring, mixing just enough to swirl color without fully blending.
  4. Layer and Swirl the Fudge: Pour about three-quarters of the chocolate mixture into the prepared pan, spreading 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, creating figure-eight patterns without overmixing.
  5. Add the Topping: Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies evenly over the top of the swirled fudge. Press gently so they stick to the surface.
  6. Chill and Set: Refrigerate the pan for at least 3 hours or until the fudge is fully set and firm. Once chilled, lift the fudge using the parchment overhang and cut into 25 squares with a sharp knife.

Notes

  • Use real white chocolate chips, not almond bark, for authentic flavor and texture.
  • Ensure sweetened condensed milk is at room temperature for smooth melting.
  • Be careful not to over-swirl the peppermint layer to maintain the distinct swirl effect.
  • Crushed peppermint candies add both texture and festive flavor.
  • Store fudge in an airtight container refrigerated for up to two weeks.
  • Allow fudge to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Keywords: peppermint fudge, holiday fudge, chocolate fudge, peppermint swirl, white chocolate fudge, festive dessert