Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe

If you’re craving that perfect holiday treat that’s creamy, minty, and downright addictive, you’re going to love this Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe. It’s one of those sweet treasures that feels fancy but is actually super approachable, especially if you want to impress friends or satisfy a serious sweet tooth. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe season after season.

this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

The ingredients here are simple but carefully chosen — good quality chocolate, smooth sweetened condensed milk, and bold peppermint extract all team up to create that perfect fudge you’ll love. A quick tip: Always use real white chocolate chips and gel food coloring for the best flavor and vibrant swirl.

• Semi-sweet or Dark Chocolate Chips: Use high-quality chocolate for rich depth; chocolate chips melt evenly and give the fudge a smooth texture.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds creaminess and helps the fudge set properly without overpowering the chocolate flavor.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Key to that creamy, fudgy texture and sweetness, so don’t swap it out for evaporated milk!
• Peppermint Extract: The star flavor, so pick a good-quality extract for a fresh, bright minty punch.
• White Chocolate Chips: Use real white chocolate, not almond bark, to melt smoothly and maintain flavor.
• Red Gel Food Coloring: A couple of drops create that beautiful candy cane look without making the chocolate runny.
• Crushed Peppermint Candies or Candy Canes: Adds a crunchy, festive topping that’s the perfect finishing touch.

Tweak to Your Taste

One of the things I love about this Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. Maybe you like it extra minty or prefer less sweetness — either way, it’s a great canvas for your flavor preferences.

• Extra Minty: I sometimes double the peppermint extract for a stronger mint kick, especially around the holidays.
• Chocolate Lovers: Swap semi-sweet for bittersweet or dark chocolate chips for deeper richness.
• Dairy-Free Option: Try coconut milk condensed milk and dairy-free chocolate to make it vegan-friendly.
• Festive Colors: Use green gel food coloring instead of red for a fun twist on the swirl.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan Like a Pro

Start by lining an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on two sides so you can lift your fudge out easily later. I always give that parchment a quick spray with nonstick spray, too — it saves so much hassle when it’s time to cut and serve. Pop the pan on a flat surface to stay organized.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Fudge Base Gently

In a heatproof bowl, combine your semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips, butter, and room-temperature sweetened condensed milk. Place this bowl over a pot of barely simmering water (your classic double boiler setup) and stir constantly until everything is melted and silky smooth. This avoids scorching the chocolate — I’ve learned the hard way that direct heat can cause it to seize. Take it off the heat, then stir in peppermint extract and just a pinch of salt to round out the flavor.

Step 3: Create the Peppermint Swirl Layer

Using a separate heatproof bowl, melt white chocolate chips with butter and condensed milk just like you did for the dark chocolate base. Once smooth, stir in peppermint extract and add 1 to 2 drops of red gel food coloring — this is where your fudge starts to get that festive swirl. Don’t fully mix in the color; you want to see those pretty streaks in the swirl.

Step 4: Layer, Swirl, and Garnish

Pour about three-quarters of the chocolate fudge mixture evenly into your prepared pan. Then, drop spoonfuls of the red peppermint mixture in random spots across the surface. Follow up with the remaining chocolate mixture, filling in the gaps. Now, grab a knife or skewer and gently swirl both mixtures together with figure-eight motions — don’t overdo it, or the colors will blend too much. Finally, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies evenly on top and press them lightly so they stick.

Step 5: Chill and Cut

Pop the pan in the fridge and chill for at least 3 hours or until fully set and firm. When hardened, use the parchment overhang to lift the entire fudge block out and place it on your cutting board. Cut into 25 bite-sized squares using a sharp knife — I find running the knife under hot water between cuts makes slicing cleaner and less sticky.

How to Serve Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe

Garnishes

I love keeping it simple with crushed peppermint candies on top for crunch and extra minty goodness. Sometimes during the holidays, I sprinkle a tiny pinch of edible glitter — just for that extra sparkle when serving guests. Fresh mint leaves look great in the presentation but skip eating them with the fudge!

Side Dishes

This peppermint fudge pairs beautifully with a classic cup of hot cocoa or a strong black coffee to balance the sweetness. I also like serving it alongside a cheese board with mild cheeses and dried fruits for a fun contrast of flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday parties, I arrange the fudge squares on a rustic wooden board layered with festive greenery and mini candy canes. Wrapping individual pieces in wax paper tied with red and white twine makes for adorable edible gifts or stocking stuffers. It’s always a conversation starter!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover peppermint fudge stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. I find keeping it chilled keeps the texture perfect and the peppermint kick fresh — plus, it’s easy to grab a little square as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this fudge successfully by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer bag. It lasts up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Because fudge is best served at cool room temperature or slightly chilled, I usually just let frozen pieces thaw naturally. If you want softer fudge, leave it out for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as that can ruin the texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe has become one of my go-to festive treats because it strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and refreshing, with a pretty presentation that never fails to wow. Whether you’re making it for family gatherings, gift-giving, or just a cozy night in, I hope you enjoy every creamy, minty bite as much as I do. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked before you know it!

Print