Make this easy peppermint fudge recipe with rich chocolate, marshmallow fluff, and a festive candy cane topping—ideal for holiday treats and homemade gifts!

The holidays are my favorite time of year, filled with warmth, laughter, and plenty of sweet treats. I remember the first time I made peppermint fudge—it was a snowy weekend, and I had two pre-teen boys eagerly waiting to “taste-test” every step. They loved crushing the candy canes, and I couldn’t resist sneaking a few bites of the marshmallow fluff myself. Since then, this recipe has become a family tradition and a holiday staple in our home. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time fudge maker, this Peppermint Fudge Recipe is foolproof, festive, and absolutely delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Fudge Recipe

This peppermint fudge is more than just a dessert—it’s a slice of holiday magic. The creamy chocolate base combined with refreshing peppermint creates a perfect balance of flavors. It’s quick to make, requires simple ingredients, and doesn’t need a candy thermometer! Whether hosting a party, putting together holiday gift boxes, or indulging in seasonal baking, this recipe is guaranteed to delight. Plus, it’s kid-friendly—my boys love helping out, especially when it involves sneaking a marshmallow bit or two.

Ingredients for Making Peppermint Fudge

Here’s what you’ll need to create this dreamy and easy peppermint fudge recipe:

2 1/2 cups granulated sugar – The base for that classic fudge sweetness.
3/4 cup unsalted butter – Adds richness and a creamy texture.
2/3 cup evaporated milk – Creates a smooth, velvety consistency. Pro Tip: Don’t substitute with sweetened condensed milk; it will alter the texture.
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips – Perfectly balances the sweetness with a rich chocolate flavor.
7 oz jar marshmallow fluff – A must-have for that signature fudge creaminess.
1 teaspoon peppermint extract – Bring the festive, refreshing flavor of peppermint to life.
1 1/2 cups tiny marshmallow bits – Adds a fun, chewy texture throughout the fudge.
1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candy – For the crunchy, minty topping that screams “holiday!”

Tools You’ll Need

Before you dive in, make sure you have these tools on hand:

An 8×8 or 9×9 square pan is perfect for shaping your fudge. Line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Parchment paper or aluminum foil: Helps prevent sticking.
Rolling pin: Ideal for crushing candy canes.
3-quart pot: A sturdy pot ensures even cooking.
Wooden spoon: Best for constant stirring without scratching your pan.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Pan

Start by lining your square pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Lightly coat it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Trust me, this step saves a lot of hassle when slicing the fudge.

2. Crush the Candy Canes

Place the candy canes in a sturdy plastic bag and crush them into small pieces with a rolling pin. This is a great step to involve the kids—they’ll love getting hands-on with this holiday prep!

3. Create the Sugar Mixture

In a 3-quart pot, combine the granulated sugar, butter, and evaporated milk. Stir constantly over medium-high heat until the mixture reaches a rolling boil. Reduce the heat to medium and let it boil for five minutes, continuing to stir to prevent burning.

Pro Tip: The key here is consistency—don’t walk away, or the sugar might scorch!

4. Melt the Chocolate

Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Keep stirring until they’re completely melted and the mixture is smooth.

5. Add Marshmallow Fluff and Peppermint Extract

Stir in the marshmallow fluff and peppermint extract until fully blended. The aroma of the peppermint mixing with the warm chocolate is pure holiday bliss!

6. Pour and Cool

Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly.

Allow it to cool slightly before sprinkling in the marshmallow bits. Gently press them into the fudge so they stay in place.

7. Top with Crushed Candy Canes

Once the fudge has cooled completely (about two hours in the fridge), sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top for a festive, crunchy finish.

8. Slice and Enjoy

Carefully lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper, slice it into pieces, and enjoy!

My Tips for Perfect Peppermint Fudge

Make it Ahead

This peppermint fudge is perfect for make-ahead prep. It keeps in the fridge for up to two weeks, making it ideal for busy holiday schedules.

Customizations

Not a fan of peppermint? Swap the peppermint extract for vanilla for a classic chocolate fudge.
Want more texture? Mix in crushed cookies or chopped nuts.
Looking for a twist? Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a wintery, snowy look.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your peppermint fudge on a festive platter at holiday parties, or wrap pieces in cellophane with ribbon for thoughtful homemade gifts.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of marshmallow fluff and chocolate chips ensures a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture without the fuss of traditional fudge recipes. The peppermint extract infuses a festive flavor, while the candy cane topping provides a delightful crunch. It’s simple and impressive enough for beginners to wow your holiday guests.

FAQ for Making the BEST Peppermint Fudge

Q: Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of evaporated milk?

A: No, sweetened condensed milk is thicker and sweeter, which will alter the fudge’s consistency and flavor.

Q: How long does this fudge keep?

A: Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks or freeze it for up to three months.

Q: Can I double the recipe?

A: Absolutely! Use a larger pan (like 9×13) to accommodate the extra fudge.

Wrapping It Up

This peppermint fudge is everything you want in a holiday treat—quick, easy, and bursting with festive flavor. Whether you’re whipping it up for a family movie night or adding it to a holiday gift basket, it’s sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to take a picture of your creation and tag me—I’d love to see how yours turns out!

I hope you like this easy peppermint fudge recipe – be sure to give it a review below!

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Looking for more holiday recipes and ideas? Check out links below for more seasonal inspiration. Happy holidays and happy baking!