Name: Irresistible Peppermint Swirl Fudge for Your Holiday Joy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 210 min
Ingredients: 2 cups dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips (Provides a rich base flavor); 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk (Room temperature to prevent chocolate from seizing); 1 tablespoon butter (Used for melting with chocolate); 1.5 cups white chocolate with cocoa butter (Essential for a creamy swirl); 0.5 teaspoon peppermint extract (Imparts a fresh minty flavor); 1 drop red gel food coloring (Used for creating beautiful swirls); 1 cup crushed peppermint candy or candy canes (Adds a crunchy topping)

The kitchen was alive with festive cheer as the scent of melting chocolate wafted through the air. That moment when the rich, velvety layers came together to form my beloved Peppermint Swirl Fudge always feels like pure magic. This no-bake delight is not just quick to whip up, but it also offers a whimsical twist on traditional holiday treats. Creamy chocolate meets refreshing peppermint, creating a crowd-pleaser perfect for sharing at gatherings or gifting to loved ones. Plus, the vibrant red and white swirls bring a touch of holiday spirit to any dessert table. Are you ready to create a slice of this seasonal joy? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Crave This Fudge

Irresistible Peppermint Swirl Fudge is the ultimate indulgence this holiday season! No-Bake Wonder: With minimal effort, you can create a stunning dessert that will impress friends and family. Flavor Duo: The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint is simply heavenly. Perfect for Gifting: Slice into delightful squares that make thoughtful holiday gifts. Versatile Spin: Try using orange extract or toasted nuts for a unique twist! Don’t forget to check out our recipes for Chocolate Swirl Cheesecake or Berry Swirl Cheesecake for more festive inspirations!

Peppermint Swirl Fudge Ingredients

• Get ready to create the magic of Peppermint Swirl Fudge with these simple ingredients!

For the Chocolate Base

Dark or Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Provides a rich base flavor; consider using high-quality chocolate bars for a smoother melt.
Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds sweetness and creaminess; make sure it’s at room temperature to prevent chocolate from seizing.

For the Whipped Swirl Layer

White Chocolate with Cocoa Butter – Essential for a creamy swirl; avoid almond bark as it doesn’t achieve the right texture.
Peppermint Extract – Imparts a fresh minty flavor; measure carefully for the right balance of taste.

For the Festive Touch

Red Gel Food Coloring – Used for creating beautiful swirls; gel works better than liquid to maintain the fudge’s texture.
Crushed Peppermint Candy or Candy Canes – Adds a crunchy topping and enhances the visual appeal; easier to crush than traditional hard candy.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Swirl Fudge

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by taking an 8×8 square pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. Lightly grease the parchment to prevent sticking. This will be the base for your Peppermint Swirl Fudge, ensuring it comes out perfectly shaped and easy to cut once set.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Base
In a double boiler over medium heat, combine 2 cups of dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon of butter and 14 ounces of room-temperature sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously for about 5–7 minutes until the mixture is silky and smooth, ensuring there are no lumps. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before adding flavor.

Step 3: Add Peppermint Extract
Once your chocolate base is smooth, carefully stir in ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract. This step adds that festive minty flavor that makes your Peppermint Swirl Fudge irresistible. Mix thoroughly to ensure the extract is well incorporated, and be mindful of the quantity, as too much can overpower the chocolate.

Step 4: Prepare the Swirl Layer
In a clean double boiler, melt 1½ cups of white chocolate with ⅓ cup of sweetened condensed milk over medium heat. Stir for about 4–5 minutes until it reaches a glossy, smooth consistency. This creamy mixture will become the vibrant swirl in your fudge, adding both flavor and visual appeal.

Step 5: Create the Festive Color
Remove the white chocolate layer from the heat and add red gel food coloring, a few drops at a time, until you achieve a beautiful streaky effect. Mix gently, creating swirls without completely mixing it into a uniform color. Aim for a vibrant contrast that will pop in your Peppermint Swirl Fudge.

Step 6: Assemble the Fudge Layers
Pour about ¾ of the chocolate mixture into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Use a spatula for gentle smoothing. Scoop spoonfuls of the peppermint swirl layer over the chocolate base, spacing them out evenly. This sets the stage for an eye-catching swirl design.

Step 7: Swirl the Mixtures
Using a skewer or toothpick, swiftly create swirling patterns by dragging through the chocolate and peppermint layers in figure-eight motions. Be careful not to over-blend; the goal is to maintain a distinct look with both chocolate and peppermint visible. This delightful swirl will make your fudge stand out.

Step 8: Finish with the Remaining Chocolate
Pour the remaining chocolate mixture over the swirled peppermint layers, making sure to cover them completely. Use the skewer again to swirl the top slightly, integrating the mixtures while still preserving the contrast between chocolate and peppermint.

Step 9: Add the Crunchy Topping
Sprinkle crushed peppermint candy or candy canes across the top of your fudge layer. Lightly press them into the surface to ensure they adhere well. This adds a festive touch and a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the creamy fudge.

Step 10: Chill Until Set
Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 3 hours, or until the Peppermint Swirl Fudge is firm to the touch. The cold will help the layers to set beautifully. Avoid jostling the pan during this time to keep the layers intact and visually appealing.

Step 11: Cut and Serve
Once set, use a hot knife to cut the fudge into squares. The heat will help prevent the fudge from crumbling as you slice. Serve your Peppermint Swirl Fudge on a festive platter and enjoy the delight it brings to your holiday gatherings or as a wonderful homemade gift!

Expert Tips for Peppermint Swirl Fudge

Room Temperature Milk: Ensure your sweetened condensed milk is at room temperature before mixing to prevent the chocolate from seizing and ruining the smooth texture of your fudge.
Double Boiler Method: Melting chocolate slowly in a double boiler is key; microwaving can lead to overheating that alters the consistency of your Peppermint Swirl Fudge.
Quick Swirling: Create swirls immediately while the fudge layers are still warm. This helps maintain distinct layers and makes for a more visually stunning treat.
Not Too Firm: If your fudge is too firm when cut, consider reducing the chilling time by 30 minutes next time so it remains soft and creamy.
Experiment with Swirls: For a fun twist, combine different gel food colors—like green and red—during the swirling process to capture the cheerful spirit of the holidays!

Make Ahead Options

These Peppermint Swirl Fudge squares are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the holiday season without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the entire fudge mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the instructions until the chilling step, then cover your pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, just slice the fudge into squares and present it on a lovely platter. To maintain quality, ensure your fudge is kept in an airtight container in the fridge, preventing it from drying out. With this make-ahead option, you’ll have a delightful, festive dessert ready to impress your guests!

What to Serve with Peppermint Swirl Fudge

Elevate your holiday dessert game by pairing this charming fudge with delightful accompaniments that enhance its festive spirit.

Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of rich chocolatey hot cocoa magnifies the indulgent flavors while complementing the peppermint perfectly.
Milk or Almond Milk: The light, creamy texture offers a classic pairing, balancing the sweetness of the fudge with a refreshing sip.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast, cooling down the fudge’s richness and adding creaminess.
Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: These provide a crunchy, salty contrast that pairs beautifully with the smooth fudge, accentuating the chocolate flavors.
Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad brings refreshing tartness, cutting through the fudge’s sweetness and adding a colorful touch to your dessert spread.
Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites provide a creamy texture that harmonizes with the fudge while introducing different flavor profiles for variety.
Coffee or Peppermint Tea: A warm beverage like coffee heightens the chocolate experience, while peppermint tea reinforces the fudge’s minty notes, perfect for festive gatherings.
Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti with nuts adds a delightful texture and an earthy flavor that complements the fudge’s sweetness.
Gingerbread Cookies: These spiced delights offer a warm, festive flavor that pairs perfectly with the coolness of peppermint.
Red Velvet Cake Slices: For an extravagant pairing, slice of red velvet cake adds a rich and velvety contrast that turns dessert into a spectacular event.

Peppermint Swirl Fudge Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you personalize this delightful fudge to suit your taste!

Flavor Twist: Substitute peppermint extract with almond or orange extract for a unique flavor profile.
Nutty Addition: Add chopped toasted nuts like pistachios or walnuts for a satisfying crunch and an extra layer of flavor.
Colorful Swirls: Experiment by using green gel food coloring or try a mix of red and green for a festive dual-color effect.
Dark Chocolate Delight: Use dark chocolate bars instead of chips, such as Lindt or Ghirardelli, for a smoother, richer taste.
Vegan Option: Swap out dairy products for coconut milk and use dairy-free chocolate for a delicious vegan version.
Minty Zing: Combine the fudge with fresh mint leaves by blending them into the chocolate base for a refreshing kick.
Chocolate Variations: Create a layered effect using layers of both dark and white chocolate fudge for a visual treat.
Spicy Kick: Infuse with a hint of cinnamon or cayenne pepper for a spicy contrast to the sweet chocolate and peppermint flavors.

Don’t forget to check out our recipes for Homemade Raspberry Swirl or Raspberry Swirl Cupcakes for more delicious ways to celebrate the season!

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Swirl Fudge

Room Temperature: Keep the fudge stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully but be mindful of heat and humidity.

Fridge: For longer freshness, store your Peppermint Swirl Fudge in the fridge within an airtight container for up to 1 week. This helps maintain its creamy texture and prevents it from becoming too soft.

Freezer: Extend the storage life by freezing fudge for up to 3 months. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing excess air to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the fudge in the fridge overnight. For a slight warm-up, microwave it on low power for 10-15 seconds, keeping an eye to avoid overheating.

Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe FAQs

What type of chocolate should I use for the Peppermint Swirl Fudge?
Absolutely! For the rich base flavor, I recommend using dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips. If you want an even smoother melt, consider substituting them with high-quality dark chocolate bars like Lindt or Ghirardelli.

How should I store leftover Peppermint Swirl Fudge?
Store your Peppermint Swirl Fudge in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. This helps maintain its creamy texture and prevents it from becoming too soft. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze it as well.

Can I freeze the Peppermint Swirl Fudge?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months! First, wrap individual pieces of fudge tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove excess air to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight.

What should I do if my fudge is too firm?
If the fudge turns out too firm, it could be due to chilling for too long. A quick fix is to reduce the chilling time by 30 minutes next time you make it. If you serve it and find it too hard, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before cutting into squares.

Is there an alternative for sweetened condensed milk?
Certainly! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use sweetened coconut cream in place of sweetened condensed milk. It provides a similar sweetness and creaminess that complements the fudge wonderfully. Just be sure it’s at room temperature to avoid any issues with seizing.