Hamdi Saidani This Quick and Easy Peppermint Fudge is an easy and no-bake recipe, which is made with chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. It’s the perfect holiday treat, ready in about 2 hours and 10 minutes.
Quick and Easy Peppermint Fudge Ingredients
- Cooking spray, for spraying foil
- 3 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- Red peppermint candies, crushed, for topping
How To Make Quick and Easy Peppermint Fudge
- Prep the pan: Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on the sides to act as handles. Spray the foil with cooking spray.
- Melt the fudge: In a medium saucepan, combine the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
- Chill and serve: Pour the fudge into the prepared pan and spread it into an even layer. Immediately sprinkle the top with the crushed peppermint candies. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm. Once set, use the foil handles to lift the fudge out of the pan, peel off the foil, and cut it into small squares.
Recipe Tips
- How to get a smooth fudge? The key is to use low heat and stir constantly. This prevents the chocolate from scorching and ensures it melts evenly into the condensed milk.
- Can I use a different kind of chocolate? Yes, this recipe is very flexible. You can use milk chocolate chips for a sweeter fudge, dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor, or even white chocolate chips for a different twist.
- What kind of peppermint candies are best? Crushed candy canes or round starlight mints both work perfectly. Place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin or mallet to crush them into small pieces.
- Can I add other mix-ins? Absolutely. A teaspoon of peppermint extract can be stirred in with the chocolate for an extra minty kick. You could also fold in mini marshmallows or chopped nuts.
What To Serve With Peppermint Fudge
This rich fudge is a perfect standalone treat, especially for holiday occasions.
- As part of a Christmas cookie or candy platter
- Packaged in festive tins as a homemade gift
- Alongside a cup of hot chocolate or coffee
- As a simple dessert after a holiday meal
How To Store Peppermint Fudge
- Refrigerate: Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best to place parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking. It will keep for up to 2 weeks.
Peppermint Fudge Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 2g
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.
FAQs
Do I have to use sweetened condensed milk?
Yes, for this specific type of quick fudge, sweetened condensed milk is essential. It provides the sugar, milk solids, and texture needed for the fudge to set properly without a candy thermometer.
Why did my fudge not set?
This can happen if the proportions are off or if the mixture was not heated enough. Ensure you are using a standard 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk. The fudge should thicken slightly in the pan as the chocolate melts.
Can I make this in the microwave?
Yes. You can combine the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each one, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
Quick and Easy Peppermint Fudge Recipe
Description
An incredibly simple, 3-ingredient no-bake fudge that’s smooth, rich, and perfect for the holidays with a festive peppermint crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch pan with foil and spray with cooking spray.
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk together, stirring until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Immediately sprinkle the top with crushed peppermint candies.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
- Lift from the pan and cut into small squares.
Notes
- Stir the chocolate mixture constantly over low heat to prevent it from scorching.
- For easy cutting, you can run a large, sharp knife under hot water and wipe it dry before each slice.
- This fudge is perfect for making ahead of time for parties or as a homemade gift.
- Feel free to use white chocolate chips for a “white peppermint bark” style fudge.
