Peppermint Swirl Fudge (Creamy, Festive, and Perfect for Gifting)
Few treats capture the magic of the holidays quite like peppermint swirl fudge. With its creamy white chocolate base, bold peppermint flavor, and beautiful red-and-white swirls, this fudge is as eye-catching as it is delicious. It’s the kind of dessert that instantly feels festive — perfect for holiday trays, homemade gifts, or simply enjoying with a warm mug of cocoa.
This recipe focuses on simplicity without sacrificing flavor or texture. Using sweetened condensed milk and white chocolate creates a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth fudge that sets beautifully every time. The peppermint swirl adds visual drama and a refreshing contrast to the sweetness, making each bite feel balanced rather than overly rich.
Why Peppermint Swirl Fudge Is a Holiday Favorite
Peppermint has long been associated with winter celebrations, and for good reason. Its cool, refreshing flavor pairs perfectly with rich, sweet desserts. In this peppermint fudge recipe, the peppermint extract cuts through the creamy white chocolate base, while crushed candy canes add both texture and a nostalgic crunch.
What truly sets this fudge apart is the swirl. Rather than mixing everything together, a portion of the fudge is tinted red and gently swirled through the white base. The result is a stunning marbled effect that looks impressive but is incredibly easy to achieve.
Ingredients
- White chocolate chips
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Unsalted butter
- Peppermint extract
- Red food coloring
- Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- In a saucepan over low heat, combine white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter.
- Stir constantly until completely melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract.
- Pour about two-thirds of the mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Tint the remaining mixture with red food coloring until desired color is reached.
- Spoon the red mixture over the white layer in lines or dollops.
- Use a toothpick or knife to gently swirl, creating a marbled pattern.
- Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies lightly over the top.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
- Lift out, slice into squares, and serve.
Peppermint Swirl Fudge
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt white chocolate, condensed milk, and butter over low heat.
- Stir in peppermint extract.
- Pour most of mixture into prepared pan.
- Tint remaining mixture red and swirl on top.
- Chill until set, then slice and serve.
Notes
Smooth Texture and Balanced Flavor
The key to perfect white chocolate peppermint fudge is gentle heat and constant stirring. White chocolate can scorch easily, so keeping the heat low ensures a silky texture without graininess. Sweetened condensed milk provides structure and creaminess, allowing the fudge to set firmly while staying soft and smooth.
Peppermint extract should be added carefully — a little goes a long way. This recipe is designed to give a clean, refreshing peppermint flavor without overpowering the sweetness of the white chocolate.
Tips for Perfect Peppermint Fudge
Use quality white chocolate
Better chocolate melts smoother and tastes richer.
Keep heat low
Slow melting prevents separation or burning.
Don’t over-swirl
Too much swirling blends the colors instead of creating definition.
Let it set fully
Chilling ensures clean slices and perfect texture.
Easy Variations
- Chocolate Peppermint Fudge: Add a chocolate layer beneath the swirl
- Extra Crunch: Mix crushed peppermint directly into the base
- Pink Swirl: Use less food coloring for a softer look
- Mini Fudge Bites: Pour into silicone molds for gifting
When to Serve Peppermint Swirl Fudge
This holiday peppermint fudge fits seamlessly into many occasions:
- Holiday dessert platters
- Cookie exchanges
- Homemade food gifts
- After-dinner treats
- Winter parties
Its festive appearance makes it especially popular during December celebrations.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container up to 2 weeks
- Freezer: Freeze up to 2 months; thaw overnight
- Room Temperature: Short periods are fine, but keep cool for best texture
This fudge actually improves after a day, as the flavors meld and the texture firms slightly.
A Treat with Timeless Appeal
Fudge has been a beloved confection for generations, prized for its simplicity and versatility. Adding peppermint and a swirl design transforms a classic into a seasonal showstopper. This recipe keeps the tradition alive while offering a modern, visually striking twist.
Final Thoughts
This peppermint swirl fudge is creamy, festive, and incredibly easy to make. With its bold peppermint flavor and beautiful marbled design, it’s a dessert that looks bakery-made but comes together in minutes. Whether you’re gifting it, serving it, or sneaking a square from the fridge, this fudge is guaranteed to become a holiday favorite.
