Name: Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided (1 1/2 cups + 1/2 cup); 1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips; 3 tablespoons butter; 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk; 4 packages hot chocolate mix (about 1/2 cup); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 4 cups marshmallows, divided (2 cups + 2 cups); About 1/2 cup peppermint candy canes or crushed peppermints for garnish

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Introduction

If you love rich, creamy treats with a festive twist, this Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge is perfect for you. Combining layers of chocolate, marshmallows, and peppermint, it’s a delightful holiday dessert that’s easy to make and sure to please any crowd.

A thick, square brownie bar with three visible layers sits on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is dark brown and dense, looking like a classic brownie. The middle layer is lighter brown with a chunkier, marshmallow-filled texture. The top layer is covered with white, fluffy mini marshmallows scattered unevenly, some slightly melting into the layer below. Small pieces of crushed peppermint candy add red and white specks on the marshmallow layer. Thin dark chocolate drizzle lines run over the top and sides, adding a shiny contrast. Around the brownie, there are loose peppermint candy pieces, a marshmallow, and a dark chocolate chip. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (divided)
1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips
3 tablespoons butter
14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
4 packages hot chocolate mix (about 1/2 cup)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
4 cups marshmallows (divided)
About 1/2 cup peppermint candy canes or crushed peppermints for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Line an 8×8-inch pan with foil or parchment paper and spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a double boiler, combine 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips, butter, sweetened condensed milk, and hot chocolate mix.
Step 3: Stir continuously over medium heat until the mixture is melted and smooth.
Step 4: Add 2 cups of marshmallows and stir for 1 minute until they begin to melt into the chocolate mixture.
Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly.
Step 6: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan and press the remaining marshmallows evenly over the top.
Step 7: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 4 hours to set completely.
Step 8: Once set, cut the fudge into squares.
Step 9: Melt the remaining 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until smooth.
Step 10: Drizzle the melted chocolate over the fudge squares and let it cool fully before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a smoother chocolate melt, use a double boiler or microwave the chips slowly to avoid burning.
Substitute peppermint candy canes with peppermint extract for a stronger mint flavor.
Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before refrigerating for a sweet and salty contrast.
Use mini marshmallows for a more even topping that melts slightly into the fudge.

Storage

Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. To soften before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. You can also freeze fudge for up to 3 months, thawing overnight in the fridge.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a square chocolate dessert bar with three visible layers. The bottom layer is a dense, dark brown brownie with a slightly crumbly texture. Above this is a thick, lighter brown chocolate layer with a creamy, smooth look, mixed with bits of white marshmallow. The top layer is covered with small white marshmallows, some slightly melted, and sprinkled with crushed red and white peppermint pieces. Thin drizzles of dark chocolate run over the marshmallows, adding contrast. The dessert sits on a white marbled surface with scattered marshmallows, peppermint pieces, and a chocolate chip around it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of hot chocolate mix?

Regular cocoa powder lacks the sugar and powdered milk found in hot chocolate mix, so the fudge may be less sweet and creamy. If substituting, add sugar and a bit of powdered milk to adjust the flavor and texture.

Is there a way to make this fudge vegan?

To make a vegan version, use dairy-free chocolate chips and sweetened condensed coconut milk. Replace butter with a vegan alternative, and ensure your marshmallows are vegan-friendly, as many contain gelatin.