Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge Recipe
Introduction
Warm up your holidays with this rich and creamy Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge! Combining the comforting flavors of chocolate, marshmallows, and peppermint, it’s an irresistible treat perfect for festive occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (divided)
- 1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 4 packages of hot chocolate mix (about 1/2 cup)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 cups marshmallows (divided)
- About 1/2 cup peppermint candy canes or crushed peppermints for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Line an 8×8-inch pan with foil or parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a double boiler, combine 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips, butter, sweetened condensed milk, and hot chocolate mix.
- Step 3: Stir continuously over medium heat until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
- Step 4: Add 2 cups of marshmallows and stir for about 1 minute until they start to melt into the mixture.
- Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- Step 6: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan and press the remaining marshmallows evenly on top.
- Step 7: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
- Step 8: Once set, cut the fudge into squares.
- Step 9: Microwave the remaining 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.
- Step 10: Drizzle the melted chocolate over the fudge squares and let cool completely before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For an extra festive touch, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the chocolate drizzle before it sets.
- Use white chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate for a different flavor profile.
- If you don’t have a double boiler, melt the chocolate mixture gently in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Swap out peppermint candy for your favorite holiday candies like crushed candy canes or toffee bits.
Storage
Store your peppermint fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. To serve, bring to room temperature for a few minutes, or enjoy chilled for a firmer texture. This fudge can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before cutting and serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of hot chocolate mix?
Hot chocolate mix contains sugar and other flavorings which add sweetness and richness. Using plain cocoa powder may result in a less sweet fudge, so you might need to adjust the sugar accordingly.
How do I make this fudge dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the milk chocolate and butter with dairy-free alternatives and use a dairy-free sweetened condensed milk or a homemade coconut-based version. Ensure the hot chocolate mix is also dairy-free.
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Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge combines the rich, creamy flavors of semi-sweet and milk chocolate with festive peppermint and marshmallows for a delightful holiday treat. Easy to make with no baking required, it’s perfect for gifting or sharing during the colder months.
Ingredients
Chocolate Mixture
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (divided)
- 1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 4 packages of hot chocolate mix (about 1/2 cup)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Marshmallow and Garnish
- 4 cups marshmallows (divided)
- Peppermint candy canes or crushed peppermints, about 1/2 cup, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with foil or parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Melt the Chocolate: Set up a double boiler and combine 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips, butter, sweetened condensed milk, and hot chocolate mix in the top pot. Stir continuously over medium heat until the mixture is melted and smooth.
- Add Marshmallows: Stir in 2 cups of marshmallows and continue stirring for about 1 minute until they begin melting and incorporate into the mixture.
- Flavor and Transfer: Remove the chocolate mixture from heat and stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until fully combined. Pour and spread the fudge evenly into the prepared pan.
- Top with Marshmallows: Press the remaining 2 cups of marshmallows firmly onto the surface of the fudge for a decorative and tasty topping.
- Chill the Fudge: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 4 hours or until completely set and firm.
- Cut the Fudge: Once set, remove the fudge from the pan using the foil or parchment paper and cut into squares of desired size.
- Melt Remaining Chocolate: Place the remaining 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until melted and smooth.
- Drizzle and Garnish: Drizzle the melted chocolate over the fudge squares and sprinkle crushed peppermint candy canes on top. Allow the drizzle to cool and harden before serving.
Notes
- Use double boiler to prevent chocolate from burning and ensure smooth consistency.
- For a richer flavor, use high-quality chocolate chips and real vanilla extract.
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Crushed peppermint canes add a festive crunch and bright peppermint flavor to balance the sweetness.
- If you don’t have a double boiler, simmer a small amount of water in a pot and place a heat-safe bowl on top without touching the water.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: hot chocolate fudge, peppermint fudge, no bake fudge, holiday dessert, peppermint candy fudge, easy fudge recipe
