Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe – A Festive Treat for Every Sweet Tooth

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a festive dream—creamy white chocolate fudge infused with peppermint flavor and finished with a stunning swirl of red color. It’s easy to make, sets beautifully, and stores well for days. The combination of sweet and refreshing peppermint creates a balanced flavor that’s indulgent without being overpowering.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

White chocolate chips – These form the rich, creamy base of the fudge. Choose a good-quality brand to ensure smooth melting and great flavor.

Sweetened condensed milk – Provides the luscious, velvety texture that makes fudge irresistible while adding a touch of sweetness.

Butter – A small amount of butter adds richness and helps create a silky finish.

Peppermint extract – The key to that cool, refreshing flavor. Be careful not to overdo it; a little goes a long way.

Red gel food coloring – Used to create the signature peppermint swirl. Gel coloring works best since it doesn’t water down the mixture.

Crushed peppermint candies – Optional but add a festive crunch and visual appeal. You can also use crushed candy canes for a traditional touch.

Vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavors and enhances the sweetness.

Pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out the creamy chocolate flavor.

Directions

Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Set aside.

In a medium saucepan, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy. Remove from heat.

Stir in the peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Pour two-thirds of the mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Tint the remaining fudge in the saucepan with red gel food coloring and stir until fully combined. Drop spoonfuls of the red mixture over the white base. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the two colors together, creating a beautiful marbled effect.

If desired, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top and gently press them in. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set. Once firm, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper, cut it into small squares, and enjoy.

Essential Equipment

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 16 pieces of fudge. Preparation takes 10 minutes, and chilling time is about 2 hours, so plan for around 2 hours and 10 minutes total.

Storage/reheating

Store your peppermint fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate for up to two weeks. If stacking pieces, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. You can also freeze the fudge for up to three months; just thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.

Variations and Customizations

Chocolate Layer – Add a layer of melted dark chocolate on top for a peppermint bark-style fudge.

Mint Chocolate Chip Version – Mix in mini chocolate chips before the fudge sets for extra texture.

Color Swirl Options – Try green swirls instead of red for a fresh take or a spring-themed look.

Extra Crunch – Stir in crushed cookies or pretzels for a salty-sweet twist.

Candy Cane Topping – Press larger candy cane pieces on top for a festive presentation.

Double Peppermint – Add a few drops of peppermint oil for a stronger, more cooling flavor.

Drizzle Effect – Once set, drizzle melted white or dark chocolate on top for a bakery-style finish.

Marble Fudge Mix – Make half peppermint fudge and half chocolate fudge, swirling them together.

Dairy-Free Option – Use dairy-free white chocolate and coconut condensed milk for a vegan-friendly version.

Holiday Gift Idea – Wrap individual pieces in cellophane and tie with ribbon for homemade holiday treats.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?

You can, but the peppermint flavor pairs best with white chocolate for a cleaner, more refreshing taste.

2. What if I don’t have gel food coloring?

You can use liquid food coloring, but reduce the amount slightly to avoid thinning the fudge.

3. How do I know when the fudge is set?

It should feel firm to the touch and not sticky when pressed lightly.

4. Can I make this without peppermint extract?

Yes, substitute with vanilla extract for a classic vanilla fudge.

5. Can I use evaporated milk instead of sweetened condensed milk?

No, the consistency and sweetness are different—stick with condensed milk for best results.

6. How can I make cleaner cuts?

Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped dry between cuts.

7. Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Yes, chopped almonds or pecans add a lovely crunch.

8. Can I use a microwave instead of stovetop?

Yes, heat the mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.

9. What’s the best way to store it for gifting?

Place pieces in decorative tins or jars with parchment paper layers.

10. How long does it stay fresh?

About 1 week at room temperature or 2 weeks when refrigerated.

Conclusion

Peppermint Swirl Fudge is the perfect balance of creamy sweetness and cool minty freshness. It’s festive, elegant, and surprisingly easy to make, with results that look straight out of a candy shop. Whether you’re making it for a holiday dessert tray, gifting it to friends, or simply treating yourself, this fudge delivers on flavor and presentation every single time. One bite of its smooth, peppermint-kissed layers, and you’ll understand why it’s a seasonal favorite year after year.

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