Name: Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Total time: 3 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
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; 1 ½ 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

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 4 reviews

I absolutely adore this Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe because it blends the rich, indulgent taste of smooth chocolate with the refreshing zing of peppermint in a way that feels like holiday magic in every bite. I love how the creamy white chocolate and the bright red peppermint swirls create such a beautiful contrast—not just visually but flavorfully. Every time I share it, people ask for the recipe because it feels festive yet simple, perfect for gifting or just treating yourself during the colder months.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe

One of the things that really excites me about this Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe is how it hits all the right notes on the palate. The deep, luscious chocolate base gives you that classic, velvety fudge experience, while the peppermint swirl adds a crisp cooling touch that beautifully balances the sweetness. It’s festive without being overpowering, and the hint of crushed peppermint candies on top adds just the right touch of crunch and holiday flair.

Beyond the taste, I find this recipe incredibly approachable. The preparation steps are straightforward, using simple techniques like melting over a double boiler without the need for fancy equipment or advanced skills. Plus, it sets in the fridge with minimal fuss, so you can have a stunning holiday treat ready in just a few hours. I love serving this fudge at holiday parties or as a thoughtful homemade gift—people always appreciate such a personal touch, and it never fails to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows six small white bowls and a small glass pitcher, all placed on a white marbled surface. Two larger white bowls hold chocolate chips, one with dark brown chocolate chips and the other with creamy yellow white chocolate chips. A smaller white bowl contains three cubes of pale yellow butter. Another white bowl is filled with crushed red and white peppermint candy. The small glass pitcher holds a smooth light cream liquid. On the left side, there is a small brown glass dropper bottle and two tiny bowls with white coarse salt and fine white sugar. The layout is neat with soft natural light. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe lies in its simple but carefully selected ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture, flavor, and festive appearance that makes this fudge so special.

Pro Tip ✨

Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips: Provide the rich chocolate base that melts smoothly and forms the fudge’s core flavor.
Unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and helps create a luscious texture in both chocolate layers.
Sweetened condensed milk: Gives the fudge its signature dense, creamy sweetness and keeps it perfectly firm yet tender.
Peppermint extract: Delivers that festive, refreshing flavor that defines this recipe’s signature taste.
White chocolate chips: For the swirling layer, use real white chocolate to ensure a creamy texture and authentic flavor contrast.
Red gel food coloring: Adds those beautiful rosy streaks in the peppermint swirl without altering the texture.
Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes: These sprinkle a festive crunch on top and accentuate the holiday vibe.

Directions

Step 1: Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting later. Lightly spray the parchment with nonstick spray and set it flat on your countertop.

Step 2: In a heatproof bowl, combine the semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips, butter, and sweetened condensed milk (at room temperature). Place this bowl over a pot of gently simmering water, stirring constantly until it melts into a smooth, glossy mixture. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the peppermint extract and a tiny pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

Step 3: In a separate heatproof bowl, melt the white chocolate chips with butter and the room temperature condensed milk over the double boiler, stirring frequently until completely smooth. Then blend in the peppermint extract and 1-2 drops of red gel food coloring. Stir gently just enough to create pretty red swirls without fully mixing the color.

Step 4: Pour about three-quarters of the chocolate fudge base into the prepared pan, spreading it carefully and evenly. Then, spoon dollops of the red peppermint white chocolate mixture across the surface. Fill in the gaps with the remaining chocolate mixture.

Step 5: Use a knife or skewer to swirl the two mixtures together by dragging figure-eight patterns through the pan—just enough to create a marbled effect but not so much that the colors blend completely.

Step 6: Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies evenly over the top, pressing them in gently so they stick slightly to the fudge.

Step 7: Chill the pan in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or until completely firm. When ready, lift the fudge out with the parchment overhang and slice into 25 squares with a sharp knife.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 25 delicious squares, perfect for sharing or gifting. Prep time takes around 25 minutes, mostly for melting and mixing the layers carefully. The fudge requires at least 3 hours of chilling time to set fully. So the total time you’ll want to set aside is roughly 3 hours and 25 minutes. I usually make it the day before I want to serve it, so it has plenty of time to firm up perfectly.

How to Serve This Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe

I love serving this peppermint fudge chilled at room temperature because it lets the rich chocolate flavors shine and keeps the texture creamy and smooth. It’s fabulous as part of a holiday dessert spread or alongside a hot cup of coffee or cocoa for a cozy winter treat.

When I’m feeling festive, I place the fudge squares on pretty holiday platters and garnish with fresh peppermint sprigs or additional crushed candies for that extra pop of color and scent. It’s just so inviting! For a grown-up twist, I’ve paired it with a glass of peppermint schnapps or a rich, full-bodied red wine like a Zinfandel to complement the chocolate’s depth.

This fudge is a star at holiday parties, but it’s also wonderful as a small homemade gift wrapped in wax paper and tied with ribbon. I recommend serving moderate portions of one or two squares per person to let guests savor the flavors without being overwhelmed, especially when paired with other sweets or festive drinks.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe is how easy it is to customize. For example, if you prefer a dairy-free or vegan option, I’ve had great success swapping regular white chocolate and milk chocolate chips with high-quality vegan chocolate varieties. Just make sure your condensed milk alternative is thick enough, like a coconut condensed milk.

You could also experiment with flavor variations by adding a small pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the chocolate base for a subtle warmth alongside the peppermint. If you love a more intense peppermint flavor, I sometimes increase the peppermint extract by a quarter teaspoon, but be careful not to overpower the chocolate.

For a different texture, try folding in some chopped toasted nuts or dried cranberries after swirling the layers. Even the cooking method can vary slightly; while I prefer the gentle double boiler approach for melting the chocolate and butter, some folks use a slow cooker on the lowest setting, stirring frequently. Both work well—just avoid high direct heat to prevent seizing.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

After making this fudge, I always store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. I like to place parchment or wax paper between layers if stacking the squares to prevent sticking. When stored properly, the fudge will last up to one week, maintaining its creamy texture and vibrant flavor.

Freezing

If you want to keep the peppermint fudge longer, freezing is a great option. I wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. This way, you avoid freezer burn and keep the fudge’s flavor intact. Frozen fudge will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

I don’t recommend reheating the fudge directly because it’s best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature to appreciate its creamy texture. If it feels too firm after refrigeration, simply letting it sit out for about 15 minutes before serving softens it beautifully without melting. Avoid microwaving, which can cause the chocolate to separate or become grainy.

FAQs

Can I use regular peppermint extract instead of pure peppermint extract?

Yes, you can use regular peppermint extract, but pure peppermint extract tends to have a brighter, more natural flavor. If you use a less concentrated extract, you might want to slightly increase the amount to achieve the same level of cooling peppermint flavor that makes this fudge special.

Is it necessary to use gel food coloring for the peppermint swirl?

Gel food coloring is my go-to because it provides vibrant color without thinning the chocolate mixture. Liquid food coloring can make the white chocolate layer too runny and affect the texture. If you want bright, pretty swirls, definitely use gel.

Can I make this Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe nut-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally nut-free as long as you ensure your chocolate chips and other ingredients are processed in a nut-free environment. If you want to add texture, opt for seeds or dried fruit instead of nuts.

What’s the best way to get clean, even fudge squares when cutting?

I find the best trick is to use a sharp chef’s knife warmed briefly under hot water and then wiped dry between cuts. This helps prevent cracking and creates smooth edges. Letting the fudge sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting also helps.

Can I prepare this fudge in advance for holiday gift-giving?

Definitely! This fudge holds up beautifully and tastes just as fresh after a few days. I like to make it a couple of days ahead to save time around the holidays. Just store it airtight in the refrigerator and wrap it carefully when gifting to keep it perfect.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a truly delicious and festive treat, this Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe ticks all the boxes. It’s simple to make, irresistibly good, and perfect for sharing with loved ones during the holidays or anytime you want a special sweet bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience firsthand the wonderful flavors and beautiful presentation—happy fudge making!