Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe

If you’re craving something rich, creamy, and festive, I’ve got just the thing for you — my Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe is an absolute showstopper! It’s one of those sweet treats that’s both simple enough to whip up on a whim and fancy enough to impress guests or jazz up your holiday dessert table. Trust me, the bright peppermint flavor swirled through creamy chocolate fudge creates a combo you’ll want to make again and again.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

I love how these ingredients work harmoniously together to create a smooth, luscious fudge with a burst of peppermint flavor. When you pick your chocolates, make sure to use good-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips — that makes a big difference!

• Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips: Choose decent quality chips for richness; avoid using chocolate chunks as they melt unevenly.
• Unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and smooth texture; unsalted lets you control the saltiness.
• Sweetened condensed milk: The magic binder; make sure it’s at room temperature to avoid clumps and seizing.
• Peppermint extract: Use pure peppermint extract for the freshest, most authentic flavor – adjust to taste.
• Pinch of salt: Just a little to balance the sweetness and enhance flavors.
• White chocolate chips (real white chocolate, not almond bark): Creates the creamy peppermint swirl — the real stuff melts better and tastes so much nicer.
• Red gel food coloring: Gel type works best for vivid color without changing the fudge’s texture.
• Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes: For a festive, crunchy topping that complements the fudge perfectly.

Variations

Over time, I’ve tweaked this Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe to suit different occasions and tastes — and I encourage you to do the same! Playing around with flavors and toppings is half the fun.

• Darker Chocolate Kick: Sometimes I swap the semi-sweet chips for bittersweet or even 70% cacao chocolate for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
• Mint Lovers’ Boost: For extra minty fudge, increase peppermint extract slightly, but watch out — a little goes a long way!
• Nutty Surprise: I’ve added chopped toasted pecans or walnuts to the top before chilling for a lovely crunch and depth of flavor.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut condensed milk to make it vegan-friendly — just keep an eye on melting times.

How to Make Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan Like a Pro

This might sound simple, but lining your 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving overhangs on two sides, is a game-changer. It makes lifting out your fudge in one beautiful piece so much easier — and less messy. A quick spray of nonstick spray over the paper prevents sticking for those extra-smooth edges.

Step 2: Create the Silky Chocolate Fudge Base

Grab a heatproof bowl and combine your semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips, butter, and room temperature sweetened condensed milk. Place it over a pot of simmering water — basically a double boiler — and stir constantly until the mixture becomes velvety and smooth. It’s important not to rush this or apply direct heat, or you risk the chocolate seizing. Once melted, stir in peppermint extract and a tiny pinch of salt to really bring out the flavors.

Step 3: Whip Up That Peppermint Swirl Layer

In another heatproof bowl, repeat the process with your white chocolate chips, butter, and condensed milk. Once smooth, stir in peppermint extract and add 1 to 2 drops of red gel food coloring. I discovered the trick of using gel coloring instead of liquid early on — it keeps that bright color without making the fudge runny. When you mix the color, gently swirl with a spoon — don’t fully blend it — so you get beautiful streaks.

Step 4: Layer, Swirl, and Sprinkle the Topping

Pour about three-quarters of your dark chocolate mixture into your prepared pan and smooth it out evenly. Then randomly drop spoonfuls of the red peppermint white chocolate all over the surface. Add the remaining dark chocolate mixture in the gaps between those spoonfuls. Now, take a sharp knife or skewer and gently swirl the two mixtures in figure-eight patterns — careful not to overmix, so those pretty swirls remain distinct. Before chilling, sprinkle your crushed peppermint candies evenly on top and press lightly so they don’t fall off later.

Step 5: Chill and Slice to Perfection

Pop that pan into the refrigerator and let your fudge chill for at least 3 hours until it’s completely firm. This step is crucial for clean slicing and that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture. When ready, use the parchment overhang to lift the whole block out, then cut it neatly into 25 squares with a sharp knife. The first slice might be a bit daunting, but once you start, the squares go quickly — and your family will be reaching for seconds!

How to Serve Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe

Garnishes

I’m a huge fan of crushed peppermint candies on top — they add just the right crunch and enhance that festive vibe. Sometimes I add a tiny sprinkle of edible glitter for special occasions, which makes the fudge sparkle beautifully under holiday lights.

Side Dishes

This fudge pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot cocoa or peppermint tea. At parties, I often serve it alongside mini marshmallows and spiced nuts to create a cozy, indulgent dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

One year, I wrapped individual squares in wax paper tied with red and white twine — cute and eco-friendly! I’ve also served the fudge on decorative trays sprinkled with fresh pine sprigs for a rustic holiday look. Trays with small chalkboard labels make for fun gifting or party buffet signs.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it firm and fresh. It usually lasts about a week, but let’s be honest — it rarely sticks around that long in my house!

Freezing

This fudge freezes beautifully. I wrap individual squares in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. When I want a quick treat, I just pop a square out to thaw at room temperature for 10–15 minutes — perfect!

Reheating

Since fudge is best enjoyed firm, I don’t recommend reheating. Just let frozen or refrigerated pieces thaw gently to room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying that creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe turns out every single time — creamy chocolate, refreshing peppermint, and festive swirls all wrapped up in one incredible bite. Whether it’s for a holiday party, a thoughtful gift, or just a cozy night treat, you really can’t go wrong making this in your kitchen. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be hooked — plus, the smiles from your family and friends will make all the stirring and swirling totally worth it.

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