Peppermint Fudge Recipe | Homemade Candy Cane Fudge

PUBLISHED December 19, 2025· MODIFIED December 17, 2025 · by the author listed in the recipe card 1280 words. · About 7 minutes to read this article.· This post may contain affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases· Leave a Comment

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that embodies the magic of the holiday season, you’ll fall in love with this White Peppermint Fudge recipe! It’s creamy, rich, and loaded with festive peppermint flavor, making it the perfect addition to any dessert table. Plus, it’s super easy to make, so even beginner cooks can whip up this holiday favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Fantastic Fudge

Easy and Quick. Ready in under 30 minutes with no baking required.
Festive Flavor. The perfect balance of creamy white chocolate and refreshing peppermint.
Versatile. Customize it with fun toppings like crushed candy canes or sprinkles.
Perfect for Gifting. Makes a thoughtful and delicious homemade holiday gift.

With minimal effort, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dessert that captures the holiday spirit in every bite. Whether it’s for a cookie exchange, holiday gathering, or just a cozy night at home, this fudge is guaranteed to be a hit!

What Does Peppermint Fudge Taste Like?

White peppermint fudge is a delightful combination of rich, creamy sweetness and refreshing minty coolness.

The base flavor comes from the white chocolate, which delivers a smooth and luscious sweetness. Its milky, buttery taste provides the perfect canvas for the bold peppermint flavor.

The peppermint extract and crushed peppermint candies add a burst of freshness. The cool, crisp mint balances the richness of the white chocolate, creating a harmonious flavor blend.

Why Is My Fudge Not Setting Up?

If your fudge is not setting properly, there are several reasons why this may happen, ranging from ingredient proportions to cooking techniques. Here’s a detailed guide to troubleshoot and fix the issue:

Improper Cooking Temperature. Fudge relies on precise temperature control. If it wasn’t heated to the right temperature, it may not set correctly.
Too Much Liquid. Adding too much liquid, like cream, milk, or water, can make the fudge too wet to solidify.
Not Enough Time to Cool. Fudge needs time to cool and set, usually a few hours at room temperature or in the fridge.

Ingredients You’ll Need

White Chocolate Chips– The star ingredient for a smooth, creamy base.
Sweetened Condensed Milk– Adds sweetness and helps create the perfect texture.
Peppermint Extract– For that classic minty flavor.
Crushed Peppermint Candies– Adds texture, flavor, and a festive touch.

How To Make Peppermint Fudge

Prepare Your Pan. Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang for easy removal. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Melt the White Chocolate. In a medium saucepan, combine white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. Be careful not to overheat, as white chocolate can burn easily.
Add the Peppermint Flavor. Once the chocolate mixture is melted, remove it from the heat. Stir in the peppermint extract and finely crushed candy canes until well combined. Adjust the amount to your taste, but start with a small amount, as peppermint extract is potent.
Pour and Smooth. Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top.
Add the Festive Toppings. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the fudge while it’s still warm for extra festive flair. Gently press them into the surface to ensure they stick.
Chill Until Set. Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours or until firm. Once set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut it into squares.

Tips And Tricks

Making white peppermint fudge is a delightful holiday activity, and with a few pro tips, you can ensure it turns out perfectly creamy and festive every time. Here’s how to master this sweet treat:

Use High-Quality White Chocolate. The better the chocolate, the creamier your fudge will be.
Crush Peppermint Candies Easily. Place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin for less mess.
Room Temperature Serving. Let the fudge sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best texture.
Control the Mint. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the peppermint extract slightly.

Variations

Peppermint fudge is a versatile dessert, and with a few tweaks, you can create unique versions to suit different tastes and occasions. Here are some delicious variations:

Dark Chocolate- Substitute half of the white chocolate with dark chocolate for a marbled effect.
Extra Crunch– Add chopped candy canes or white chocolate chips into the fudge mixture for texture.
Festive Colors– Swirl in a few drops of red or green food coloring before pouring the fudge into the pan.
Nutty Twist– Add crushed pistachios or almonds to the fudge for a crunchy bite.

What To Enjoy With Peppermint Fudge

Peppermint fudge is a versatile and festive treat that pairs well with a variety of complementary flavors and textures. Here are some delicious ideas to enjoy with it:

Hot Chocolate– A warm drink complements the cool mint flavor perfectly.
Coffee or Espresso– A rich cup of coffee balances the sweetness.
Charcuterie Dessert Board– Include the fudge on a platter with cookies, chocolates, and fruits for a stunning holiday spread.

How Long Does It Last?

Peppermint fudge usually lasts about 1–2 weeks at room temperature if it’s kept in an airtight container in a cool, dry spot, because the sugar and fat help preserve its texture and flavor.

If your kitchen is warm, humid, or you’ve added ingredients that make it wetter (like a lot of crushed candy canes), it’s safer to store it in the refrigerator, where it will typically keep 2–3 weeks. Just expect it to firm up, so let it sit out a bit before eating.

Can You Freeze It?

Yes! To freeze, wrap individual squares in wax paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method preserves freshness and makes it easy to grab a piece whenever a sweet craving strikes.

Perfect Peppermint Bites

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