Introduction

Peppermint Swirl Fudge is a festive and creamy treat combining rich chocolate with a refreshing peppermint twist. This layered fudge features a beautiful red and white swirl topped with crunchy peppermint candies, perfect for holiday gifting or enjoying any time you crave a sweet, minty indulgence.

The image shows a close-up of square peppermint fudge pieces stacked on a white marbled surface, each piece with two main layers: a thick bottom layer with swirled milk and white chocolate in a marbled pattern, and a solid dark chocolate top layer covered with chunky pieces of white peppermint candy with red stripes scattered on top. One piece is in front with a bite taken out, revealing the creamy, smooth inside layers and the glossy, slightly rough chocolate top with peppermint bits. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk, room temperature
½ teaspoon peppermint extract
Pinch of salt
1½ cups white chocolate chips (use real white chocolate, not almond bark)
½ tablespoon unsalted butter
⅓ cup sweetened condensed milk, room temperature
½ teaspoon peppermint extract
1–2 drops red gel food coloring
½ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes

Instructions

Step 1: Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal. Lightly coat the parchment with nonstick spray and set the pan on a flat surface.
Step 2: In a heatproof bowl, combine chocolate chips, 1 tablespoon butter, and 14 oz condensed milk. Set the bowl over simmering water and stir constantly until smooth and melted. Remove from heat, then stir in peppermint extract and a pinch of salt.
Step 3: In another heatproof bowl, combine white chocolate chips, ½ tablespoon butter, and ⅓ cup condensed milk. Melt gently over a double boiler, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract and red gel food coloring. Mix gently to keep streaks of color.
Step 4: Pour about three-quarters of the chocolate mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the red peppermint mixture over the chocolate, then add the remaining chocolate mixture into the gaps. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the two mixtures together, forming figure-eight patterns without overmixing.
Step 5: Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies evenly over the surface. Press lightly to help them stick to the fudge.
Step 6: Refrigerate the pan for at least 3 hours until the fudge is fully set and firm. Use the parchment overhang to lift the fudge from the pan and cut into 25 squares with a sharp knife.

Tips & Variations

Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
For a bolder color, add an extra drop of red gel food coloring to the peppermint layer.
Swap crushed peppermint candies with crushed candy canes or peppermint bark for different textures.
Store leftover fudge in an airtight container to keep it fresh longer.

Storage

Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Let it come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly. You can also freeze the fudge for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

How to Serve

The image shows several square pieces of peppermint fudge arranged on a white marbled surface. Each piece has two main layers with a marbled pattern inside: a creamy white layer swirled with rich brown chocolate. The top layer is smooth dark brown chocolate, scattered generously with large chunks of white peppermint candy that have red stripes. One piece in the center has a bite taken out of it, showing the thick, creamy texture inside. Pieces of broken peppermint candy are also spread around the fudge squares. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet or dark chocolate?

Yes, milk chocolate works, but the fudge will be sweeter and less rich. Adjust the amount of peppermint extract if needed to balance the flavors.

What can I use if I don’t have red gel food coloring?

You can use liquid food coloring, but use less as it may make the fudge runnier. Alternatively, skip the coloring and enjoy the fudge with a soft pink swirl or omit the swirl layer entirely.