Peppermint fudge is a delightful holiday treat that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. This festive dessert is creamy and sweet with a refreshing minty flavor that just brings joy. It’s perfect for parties, gift-giving, or simply enjoying with loved ones on a cozy evening.
Why You Will Love This Peppermint Fudge
This peppermint fudge is great for everyone. It uses simple, everyday ingredients and comes together quickly. The vibrant colors and festive sprinkles make it fun to share. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to get the kids involved in the kitchen. You can whip it up in no time, so there’s no fuss—just delicious results!
How to Make Peppermint Fudge
Making this fudge is straightforward and beginner-friendly. You’ll start by mixing some ingredients together, then create a sweet, creamy mixture on the stove. After blending, all you need to do is pour it into a dish and let it set. It’s that easy!
What You Need
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup unsalted butter
- pinch of salt
- 1 bag (11 ounces) white chocolate morsels
- 1 jar (7 ounces) marshmallow cream
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 drop green gel food coloring
- green sugar
- red heart sprinkles
Step-by-Step
- Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper and set aside to make removal of fudge easier after setting.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine white chocolate morsels, marshmallow cream, peppermint extract, and green gel food coloring; set aside while you prepare the hot mixture.
- In a large heavy saucepan, combine butter, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Maintain a full boil for 4 minutes, stirring constantly to ensure proper texture, then remove from heat.
- Pour the hot butter and sugar mixture over the white chocolate mixture. Using an electric mixer, blend for about one minute until the white chocolate morsels have melted and the fudge mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Immediately pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish. While still warm, sprinkle the top with green sugar and red heart sprinkles, pressing them gently into the fudge surface to decorate.
- Refrigerate the fudge for at least two hours or overnight until fully set and firm.
- Once set, cut into bite-sized pieces and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For best freshness, cut only the amount you plan to eat and keep the rest in a sealed bag.
How to Serve Peppermint Fudge
This peppermint fudge can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it as a sweet treat after dinner, or package it beautifully as gifts. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of warm cocoa or coffee. Use it to brighten up a festive dessert tray during holiday gatherings or cozy get-togethers!
How to Store Peppermint Fudge
Store your peppermint fudge at room temperature in an airtight container. For longer freshness, you can refrigerate it, but it’s best enjoyed at room temp. If you want to freeze it, cut it into pieces and keep it in a sealed bag. Thaw at room temperature for a few hours before enjoying.
Recipe Tips
- Use a heavy saucepan to prevent burning when cooking the fudgy mixture.
- Stir constantly while boiling to reach the perfect texture.
- Allow the fudge to cool completely before cutting for the best results.
- Customize the sprinkles for different holidays.
- Keep it simple with classic flavors or try mixing in nuts for extra crunch.
Variations & Swaps
- For a chocolate twist, swap some of the white chocolate for milk chocolate morsels.
- Make it dairy-free by using coconut cream and dairy-free chocolate.
- Experiment with different extracts like vanilla or almond for diverse flavor profiles.
FAQs
Can I make this fudge ahead of time?
Absolutely! This fudge is great for making ahead of time. You can prepare it several days in advance and store it properly. It stays fresh for up to two weeks, so it’s perfect for holiday planning.
Can I freeze peppermint fudge?
Yes, you can freeze peppermint fudge! Just make sure it’s completely set, then cut it into pieces and store in a sealed bag. It will keep well for a few months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.
How should I reheat fudge if it hardens?
If the fudge hardens too much, you can gently warm it. Place it in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. Keep a close eye to avoid melting it completely; you want it just soft enough to enjoy!
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you need a substitute for heavy cream, you can use full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative. It may slightly change the flavor but will still work well to achieve a creamy texture.
How do I avoid grainy fudge?
To avoid graininess, ensure that you stir constantly while boiling the sugar mixture. Keep the heat consistent for even cooking, and don’t skip the step of blending it with the white chocolate; it helps achieve a smooth finish.
Peppermint Fudge
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup unsalted butter
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 bag (11 ounces) white chocolate morsels
- 1 jar (7 ounces) marshmallow cream
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 drop green gel food coloring
Decorations
- to taste green sugar
- to taste red heart sprinkles
Instructions
Preparation
- Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine white chocolate morsels, marshmallow cream, peppermint extract, and green gel food coloring; set aside.
Cooking
- In a large heavy saucepan, combine butter, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently.
- Maintain a full boil for 4 minutes, stirring constantly, then remove from heat.
- Pour the hot mixture over the white chocolate mixture and blend with an electric mixer for about one minute until smooth and creamy.
Setting
- Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- While still warm, sprinkle the top with green sugar and red heart sprinkles, pressing gently into the fudge.
- Refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight until set.
