Candy Cane Fudge
This creamy, peppermint-flavored candy cane fudge brings festive flair to your dessert table. Topped with crushed candy canes, it’s an easy holiday treat perfect for sharing.
When it comes to holiday treats, candy cane fudge is a must-have. I love it because the mix of creamy fudge and crisp peppermint is not only delicious, but it also feels nostalgic. Plus, it’s easy to make, so even during the busiest time of year, it’s a dessert I can count on without spending hours in the kitchen.
Making this fudge is always a hit at parties or when I need a last-minute gift. I can whip up a batch in no time, and it’s one of those treats that people genuinely get excited about. There’s something special about homemade candy cane fudge that just feels more thoughtful than anything store-bought.
All you need are a few basic ingredients and a little bit of time to create this holiday treat that looks and tastes incredible. It’s perfect for a family activity, too. The kids love crushing the candy canes and sprinkling them on top.
Items Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy candy cane fudge:
- White chocolate chips: They create a smooth, creamy texture and mild sweetness that balances the peppermint flavor.
- Sweetened condensed milk (canned): This ingredient adds rich sweetness and helps bind the fudge without additional sugar.
- Candy canes or peppermint hard candy: Crushed for topping, they add a festive crunch and extra peppermint flavor.
- Peppermint extract: Enhances the fudge with a concentrated peppermint taste for that classic holiday flavor.
- Red food coloring: Adds a fun, festive swirl to the fudge, giving it a holiday look that’s visually appealing.
Tools you’ll need
Before starting the recipe, you’ll want to have all your kitchen essentials ready. I recommend having the following items:
Ways To Customize
Here are some simple ways to customize your candy cane fudge recipe:
- Add Dark or Milk Chocolate Swirls: Melt a small amount of dark or milk chocolate and swirl it into the white chocolate base for a richer, layered flavor.
- Use Different Extracts: Swap the peppermint extract for vanilla, almond, or even orange extract for a unique twist.
- Top with Mini Marshmallows: Sprinkle mini marshmallows on top of the fudge before it sets for a festive, hot-chocolate-inspired treat.
- Add Crushed Cookies: Mix in or top the fudge with crushed Oreos, chocolate sandwich cookies, or even graham crackers for extra texture and flavor.
- Try Other Hard Candies: Instead of candy canes, use crushed cinnamon hard candies, chocolate mints, or your favorite flavored candy for a fun variation.
- Drizzle with Extra Chocolate: Add a decorative drizzle of dark or white chocolate on top to make each piece look extra special and add a little more sweetness.
Be sure to check out the full recipe and ingredient list below.
How To Make It
Start by lining the 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or alumium foil. Spray with non stick baking spray if using foil. Set aside.
Place white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk into a medium sauce pan.
Stir over medium heat until chips are almost melted. Remove from the heat and continue to stir until the mixture is smooth and all the chips have melted.
Stir in the peppermint extract and crushed mints.
Remove half of the mixture to a bowl and add red food coloring, stirring until combined.
Add spoonfuls of the white mixture to the baking dish using half the mixture.
Place spoonfuls of the red mixture in the gaps to form an even layer reserving half the mixture. Repeat to make the top layer with remaining mixtures.
Chill for 2 to 3 hours and then cut into squares.
Press additional crushed candy onto the top of the fudge, if desired.
Note
Don’t add the crushed peppermint candies until the fudge mixture has cooled slightly. This will prevent them from melting into the fudge and losing their crunch.
Storage
To store the fudge, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, which keeps it soft and ready to enjoy. If you prefer a firmer texture or live in a warmer climate, store it in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to two weeks.
For longer storage, freeze the fudge in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To prevent sticking, place wax paper between layers, and when you’re ready to serve, simply thaw it at room temperature.
Helpful Hints
Pro tip: Melt slowly
When melting white chocolate and condensed milk together, use low heat and stir constantly to avoid scorching the chocolate.
Here are some helpful tips for making candy cane fudge:
- Use Good-Quality White Chocolate Chips. High-quality chocolate melts better and creates a smoother fudge, so look for brands known for creamy textures.
- Crush Candy Canes Carefully. Place candy canes in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin for even pieces; smaller bits work best for mixing in, while larger pieces are perfect for decoration.
- Add Extract Last. Stir in the peppermint extract after removing the mixture from heat to preserve its flavor and prevent it from evaporating.
- Line Your Pan. Use parchment paper to line your pan for easy removal and cleanup; this also helps you get nice, clean edges when cutting the fudge.
- Don’t Overdo the Food Coloring. Just a few drops of red food coloring are enough for festive color. Using too much can affect the taste and texture.
Serving Suggestions
One easy idea is to cut the fudge into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a holiday platter. Adding a sprinkle of extra crushed candy cane or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top makes each piece feel a little more special.
For gifting, consider wrapping pieces of fudge individually in wax paper or clear treat bags. This not only keeps the fudge fresh but also makes it easier for friends and family to grab a piece on the go. Add a holiday ribbon or a small gift tag to each bag for an extra personal touch.
If you’re planning to serve this fudge at a party, try pairing it with hot drinks like cocoa, white chocolate mocha, coffee, or peppermint tea. The cool, minty flavor of the fudge goes beautifully with warm beverages, making it an ideal treat for winter gatherings. For a festive dessert board, you can also pair it with cookies, chocolate bark, or even fruit for a sweet variety that guests will love.
FAQs
Recipe
Candy Cane Fudge Recipe
Ingredients
- 23 ounces white chocolate chips
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk canned
- ½ cup crushed candy canes or mints
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- Red Food Coloring
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Spray with non stick baking spray if using foil. Set aside.
- Place white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk into a medium sauce pan. Stir over medium heat until chips are almost melted.
- Remove from the heat and continue to stir until the mixture is smooth and all the chips have melted. Stir in peppermint extract and crushed mints.
- Remove half of the mixture to a bowl and add red food coloring, stirring until combined.
- Add spoonfuls of the white mixture to the baking dish. Place spoonfuls of the red mixture in the gaps to form an even layer. It's best to do this in two layers to have red spots on top and bottom. Chill for 2 to 3 hours and then cut.
Notes
Nutrition
Equipment
- 8×8-inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- parchment paper or aluminum foil
- medium saucepan
- Medium bowl
- spoon
