If you’re craving an irresistible, glossy treat that perfectly captures the magic of the season, look no further than this Festive Peppermint Chocolate Fudge with Marshmallows and Candy Canes Recipe. It’s a creamy, luscious fudge that combines the richness of chocolate with the playful crunch of candy canes and the soft delight of mini marshmallows. Simple to make but absolutely show-stopping, this fudge brings the joy of holiday flavors in every blissful bite and will soon become your go-to festive indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Festive Peppermint Chocolate Fudge with Marshmallows and Candy Canes Recipe truly shine is the simplicity and quality of the ingredients. Each one plays a starring role in delivering that perfect chewy, sweet, and minty balance you’ll adore.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Provides the rich, velvety chocolate base that’s neither too bitter nor too sweet.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds creaminess and sweetness for that melt-in-your-mouth texture without needing extra sugar.
- Unsalted butter: Enhances smoothness and adds a subtle richness.
- Vanilla extract: Balances and deepens the flavors while rounding out the sweetness.
- Peppermint extract: Gives the fudge its festive, refreshing holiday kick.
- Fine salt: Brilliantly cuts through sweetness and sharpens the chocolate taste.
- Mini marshmallows: Deliver pockets of chewy softness that surprise with every bite.
- Crushed candy canes: Sparkling bursts of peppermint crunch that make the fudge sparkle visually and flavor-wise.
How to Make Festive Peppermint Chocolate Fudge with Marshmallows and Candy Canes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later on. This simple step ensures your fudge won’t stick and you get those perfect clean squares ready to impress.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
Over low heat, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter in a saucepan. Stir constantly until everything melts together into a beautifully smooth, glossy mixture. Patience here pays off to avoid seizing the chocolate.
Step 3: Add Extracts and Salt
Once your chocolate base is perfectly melted, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and a pinch of fine salt. This trio is the secret to hitting just the right notes of sweetness, freshness, and depth.
Step 4: Fold in Mini Marshmallows
Gently fold half of the mini marshmallows into your chocolate mixture. They’ll melt slightly, creating soft, chewy surprises inside the fudge that make every bite interesting and delightful.
Step 5: Pour and Top
Pour the luscious fudge mixture into your lined pan and spread it evenly. Then sprinkle the remaining mini marshmallows and crushed candy canes over the top, pressing down lightly so they stick into the surface. This adds a festive crunch and a snowy, sparkling appeal.
Step 6: Chill Until Set
Pop your pan into the fridge for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is firm to touch. When ready, lift the parchment flaps to remove the entire slab and slice it into perfect little squares to share or savor yourself.
How to Serve Festive Peppermint Chocolate Fudge with Marshmallows and Candy Canes Recipe
Garnishes
To make your fudge even more magical, dust the tops lightly with powdered sugar to create a fresh “snowstorm” effect—that little touch instantly enhances its holiday spirit. If you like, add extra crushed candy canes or a few whole mini marshmallows on top just before serving for a charming presentation.
Side Dishes
The festive peppermint flavor pairs wonderfully alongside warm drinks like hot cocoa or spiced coffee. Serve this fudge with a mug of creamy eggnog or a peppermint mocha for a seasonal treat bundle that is sure to delight family and friends.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap individual fudge squares in festive wax paper or tuck them into miniature gift boxes for easy giving. You can also layer them attractively on a holiday platter surrounded by evergreen sprigs and ornaments for an eye-catching dessert table centerpiece that invites everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This fudge keeps beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, maintaining that perfect chewy texture and fresh peppermint snap. It’s a fantastic treat to have ready for unexpected guests or late-night cravings.
Freezing
You can freeze fudge squares wrapped tightly in wax paper and placed in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving to enjoy that fresh-from-the-pan indulgence any time you want.
Reheating
Because this fudge is meant to be enjoyed cool and firm, reheating isn’t recommended. If you prefer softer pieces, simply leave them at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to soften slightly before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give your fudge a more intense, less sweet profile, which pairs wonderfully with the peppermint. Just make sure to adjust sweetness to your preference.
Do I need a candy thermometer for this recipe?
Nope, one of the great things about this fudge is that it’s foolproof and doesn’t require any special equipment. Just melt gently and stir well.
Can I substitute the peppermint extract?
If peppermint isn’t your thing, feel free to swap it out for vanilla or almond extract for a different twist. However, peppermint really makes this recipe shine during the holidays!
What if I don’t have mini marshmallows?
You can chop regular marshmallows into small pieces, but mini ones melt more evenly and add that delightful texture pop that makes the fudge so festive.
How long does this fudge last?
Stored properly, it will stay fresh and delicious for about a week at room temperature, or longer if refrigerated.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly joyful about making and sharing the Festive Peppermint Chocolate Fudge with Marshmallows and Candy Canes Recipe. It’s a simple, stress-free dessert that tastes like the holidays wrapped up in a bite. Give it a try this season, and watch it become the highlight of your festive treats, bringing smiles and sweet moments to all who indulge.
Print
Festive Peppermint Chocolate Fudge with Marshmallows and Candy Canes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy, festive chocolate fudge combines semi-sweet chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk for an easy two-ingredient base, elevated with peppermint extract, mini marshmallows, and crushed candy canes. No candy thermometer or stress required—just a glossy, smooth, and irresistibly snackable treat perfect for holiday gifting or cozy nights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups (525 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14 oz/397 g) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- 1/4 tsp fine salt
Toppings
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/3 cup crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving flaps hanging over the sides to easily lift the fudge out later.
- Melt the Chocolate Mixture: In a saucepan over low heat, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Stir continuously until the mixture is completely melted and smooth, then remove from heat.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and fine salt into the melted chocolate mixture until evenly incorporated.
- Fold in Marshmallows: Gently fold half of the mini marshmallows into the chocolate mixture, distributing them evenly without melting them.
- Assemble Fudge: Spread the chocolate mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the remaining mini marshmallows and crushed candy canes on top, pressing lightly so they stick to the surface.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, or until firm and fully set.
- Slice and Serve: Use the parchment flaps to lift the fudge out of the pan. Slice into squares. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar for a festive ‘snowstorm’ effect before serving or gifting.
Notes
- For a less sweet fudge, substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips.
- Wrap fudge squares in wax paper for gifting or stocking stuffers.
- Press marshmallows and candy canes gently to ensure they adhere to the fudge surface without sinking.
- If you prefer a stronger peppermint flavor, increase peppermint extract by 1/4 tsp, but use sparingly as it is potent.
