There’s something truly heartwarming about making fudge during the holidays. The sweet, rich aroma fills the kitchen, wrapping you in a nostalgic embrace, reminding you of cozy gatherings and cherished memories shared around the table. Let’s dive into this delightful peppermint swirl fudge, a recipe that transforms any occasion into a celebration of flavor and love.
Why make this recipe
This peppermint swirl fudge is more than just a treat; it’s a way to bring flavor and joy into your home. Every bite is like a warm hug, infused with that iconic peppermint flavor that dances on your tongue. It’s perfect for holiday gift-giving, festive parties, or simply an evening spent with loved ones, reminiscing about old times while savoring every sweet morsel.
How to make Peppermint Swirl Fudge
Ingredients:
- 2 cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk, room temperature
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup sweetened condensed milk, room temperature
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 to 2 drops red gel food coloring
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Directions:
- Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper and lightly coat it with nonstick spray. This is where your masterpiece will come to life!
- In a heatproof bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, butter, and sweetened condensed milk. Melt over a gentle simmer, stirring until it transforms into a smooth, velvety mixture. Once it hugs your spoon nicely, remove it from the heat and mix in the peppermint extract and a pinch of salt.
- For the peppermint layer, in another heatproof bowl, combine the white chocolate chips, butter, and sweetened condensed milk. Melt this batch until it’s oh-so-smooth, then add in the peppermint extract and your vibrant red gel food coloring. Gently swirl this together; we want it to be pretty!
- Pour three-quarters of your luscious chocolate mixture into the prepared pan. Then drop spoonfuls of the peppermint mixture across the surface. Top it off with the remaining chocolate mixture and swirl gently with a knife, creating a beautiful marbled effect.
- Sprinkle those crushed peppermint candies on top and press them in lightly — the more, the merrier!
- Pop the pan in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours to firm up. Once it’s set, lift it out using the parchment, cut it into sweet squares, and get ready to share the love.
How to serve Peppermint Swirl Fudge
Serving this fudge is all about the joy it brings. Place the squares on a lovely decorative plate and invite everyone to help themselves. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of warm cocoa or a holiday tea, perfect for those chilly evenings spent wrapped in a blanket, adding a dash of sweetness to the warmth of good company.
How to store Peppermint Swirl Fudge
To keep your fudge fresh and delightful, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you decide to make a big batch (and who wouldn’t?), feel free to pop it in the refrigerator for an extended stay; it’ll still be just as delicious.
Tips to make Peppermint Swirl Fudge
- Make sure your bowls are heatproof for melting; a little care here goes a long way!
- For a touch of elegance, consider drizzling some extra melted chocolate on top before the candy cane sprinkle.
- If you don’t have peppermint extract on hand, vanilla extract works in a pinch, but oh, that peppermint is key for the holiday spirit!
Variations
Want to get a little adventurous? Swap dark chocolate for milk chocolate for a sweeter flair, or explore different toppings like chopped nuts or festive sprinkles to make it your very own.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chocolate bars instead of chips?
A: Absolutely! Just chop them into small pieces to ensure they melt smoothly.
Q: What if I don’t have red gel food coloring?
A: No worries at all! You can skip it, or use another color to create a merry swirl of your choice.
Q: How can I add more peppermint flavor?
A: A few extra drops of peppermint extract in the white chocolate layer can elevate that minty freshness even more — perfect for true peppermint lovers!
As we gather in our cozy kitchens this season, let this peppermint swirl fudge bring a little extra cheer to your table. Sharing food is more than just sustenance; it’s a way to love and connect, creating moments that linger long after the flavors fade. So, grab your loved ones, whip up this delightful treat, and let the fond memories begin. Happy baking, y’all!
Peppermint Swirl Fudge
Ingredients
Method
- Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper and lightly coat it with nonstick spray.
- In a heatproof bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, butter, and sweetened condensed milk. Melt over a gentle simmer, stirring until smooth.
- Remove from heat and mix in the peppermint extract and a pinch of salt.
- In another heatproof bowl, combine the white chocolate chips, butter, and sweetened condensed milk. Melt this mixture until smooth.
- Add in the peppermint extract and red gel food coloring, and swirl together.
- Pour three-quarters of the chocolate mixture into the prepared pan.
- Drop spoonfuls of the peppermint mixture across the surface, then top with the remaining chocolate mixture. Swirl gently with a knife.
- Sprinkle and press the crushed peppermint candies on top.
- Refrigerate the pan for at least 3 hours to firm up.
- Once set, lift out using the parchment, cut into squares, and serve.