Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge Recipe
This Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge is a rich, creamy, and festive treat that combines the smoothness of semi-sweet and milk chocolate with the sweet flavor of hot chocolate mix and a refreshing peppermint crunch. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights, this easy-to-make fudge is layered with marshmallows and finished with melted chocolate and crushed peppermint candies for a delightful texture and flavor contrast.
- Author: Victoria
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Chocolate Mixture
- 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
Marshmallows and Garnish
- 4 cups marshmallows, divided (2 cups + 2 cups)
- About 1/2 cup peppermint candy canes or crushed peppermints for garnish
- Prepare Pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with foil or parchment paper and spray it lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Melt Chocolate Mixture: 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. Stir continuously over medium heat until the mixture is melted and smooth, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Add Marshmallows: Stir in 2 cups of marshmallows into the melted chocolate mixture. Continue stirring for 1 minute to allow them to soften and blend into the fudge base.
- Add Vanilla: Remove the mixture from heat and stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. Mix thoroughly.
- Transfer and Garnish: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Press the remaining 2 cups of marshmallows gently into the top of the fudge for added texture and appearance.
- Chill: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
- Cut Fudge: Once set, remove the fudge from the pan using the foil or parchment edges and cut it into squares.
- Melt Remaining Chocolate: Heat the remaining 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until melted and smooth.
- Drizzle Chocolate and Garnish with Peppermint: Drizzle the melted chocolate over the fudge squares and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candy canes. Allow the drizzle to cool and set completely before serving.
Notes
- Use a double boiler or a heat-proof bowl over simmering water to gently melt chocolates and prevent burning.
- Swirling in crushed peppermint candies into the fudge before chilling is an alternative to pressing marshmallows on top.
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- For a smoother drizzle, add a teaspoon of vegetable oil to the chocolate before microwaving.
- Allow the fudge to come to room temperature for a few minutes before eating for a creamy texture.
Keywords: hot chocolate fudge, peppermint fudge, holiday fudge recipe, chocolate peppermint treat, easy fudge recipe