If you love that classic, cool burst of peppermint perfectly mingled with rich, velvety chocolate, you are going to absolutely adore this Mint Chocolate Fudge Recipe. It is a simple, no-bake delight that combines creamy semisweet chocolate with just the right hint of peppermint extract, creating a treat that’s as elegant as it is comforting. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering or a sweet pick-me-up, this fudge never fails to impress with its smooth texture and vibrant flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward, yet each one plays an essential role in crafting the perfect fudge. From the melt-in-your-mouth chocolate chips to the refreshing peppermint extract, every component enhances the taste and texture to make your fudge irresistible.
- Semisweet chocolate chips (3 cups): The base for your fudge, offering rich cocoa flavor and smooth creaminess.
- Sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 14 oz): Adds sweetness and gives the fudge its luscious, fudgy texture.
- Peppermint extract (1½ teaspoons): Delivers that signature minty freshness that lifts the chocolate perfectly.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and deepens the chocolate flavor.
- Green food coloring (optional): Adds a festive, vibrant touch, but the fudge tastes delightful without it.
- White chocolate chips (½ cup, optional): For making a beautiful, marbled swirl on top that adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Crushed peppermint candies or chocolate shavings (optional): Perfect for garnishing and adding a crunchy texture contrast.
How to Make Mint Chocolate Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang on the sides. This little trick will make it super easy to lift out your fudge later without any mess.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and salt. Stir continuously to prevent burning until the mixture is totally melted and silky smooth. This slow melting step is key to that perfect fudge texture.
Step 3: Add the Peppermint and Color
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the peppermint extract. This is where that classic Mint Chocolate Fudge Recipe flavor really starts to shine. If you want your fudge to have that cheerful green color, add a few drops of green food coloring and mix until evenly tinted.
Step 4: Pour and Smooth
Pour the luscious fudge mixture into your prepared pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula so it sets evenly. You’re nearly there!
Step 5: Create the White Chocolate Swirl (Optional)
If you’re using white chocolate chips, melt them in a microwave-safe bowl by heating in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until creamy. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the fudge and use a toothpick to gently swirl, creating a beautiful marbled effect.
Step 6: Garnish and Chill
Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or chocolate shavings on top for a festive crunch. Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is completely firm and ready to cut and serve.
How to Serve Mint Chocolate Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing with crushed peppermint candies or chocolate shavings not only makes your fudge look inviting but also adds a delightful texture contrast that enhances each bite. You can get creative here by trying crushed candy canes or even a sprinkle of sea salt for an added layer of flavor.
Side Dishes
Mint Chocolate Fudge Recipe shines as a rich, sweet treat alongside hot beverages like coffee, tea, or even a cozy cup of hot cocoa. It pairs wonderfully with lighter desserts such as fresh berries or citrus sorbet, which help balance its richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your fudge squares on a pretty plate dusted with cocoa powder or place them in festive mini cupcake liners for a grab-and-go dessert option. For holiday gifts, stack the fudge in a decorative box with parchment paper, tied with a colorful ribbon for a charming homemade present.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying a few squares, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps your Mint Chocolate Fudge Recipe fresh for up to one week, preserving its creamy texture and bright mint flavor.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead or keep your fudge longer, it freezes beautifully for up to two months. Just wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving to maintain the perfect texture.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating isn’t really necessary. However, if you prefer it slightly softer, leave it at room temperature for about 10 minutes rather than microwaving, which can cause it to become grainy.
FAQs
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet?
Absolutely! Using dark chocolate chips will give your Mint Chocolate Fudge Recipe a richer, more intense cocoa flavor. Just keep the rest of the ingredients the same for the perfect balance.
Is it necessary to add food coloring?
Nope! The green food coloring is purely optional and meant for festive presentation. The fudge tastes just as delicious without it, so feel free to skip if you prefer natural colors.
Can I make this fudge dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a coconut milk-based condensed milk alternative, and use dairy-free chocolate chips. The texture might vary slightly, but the flavor will still impress.
How long does the fudge need to chill?
The fudge should chill for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator to set properly. If you’re in a hurry, popping it in the freezer for about 30 minutes can speed things up.
What’s the best way to cut the fudge squares?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for smooth, clean edges. Cutting when the fudge is fully chilled ensures it doesn’t stick or crumble.
Final Thoughts
There is something so comforting and joyful about making a Mint Chocolate Fudge Recipe from scratch. It’s an easy recipe that delivers fantastic results every time, whether you’re sharing it at a party or keeping it all to yourself on a quiet evening. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s sure to become one of your new favorite sweet treats that brings smiles all around.
Print
Mint Chocolate Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 25 small squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Mint Chocolate Fudge is a deliciously creamy and festive treat perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. Made with semisweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and a refreshing hint of peppermint extract, this no-bake fudge is easy to prepare and can be customized with green food coloring and white chocolate swirls. Garnished with crushed peppermint candies or chocolate shavings, it offers a perfect balance of rich chocolate and cool mint flavors.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 3 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1½ teaspoons peppermint extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Green food coloring (optional)
Optional Toppings
- ½ cup white chocolate chips (for swirl)
- Crushed peppermint candies or chocolate shavings (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal of the fudge once set.
- Melt Chocolate Mixture: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and salt. Stir continuously until the mixture is melted and smooth, ensuring no chocolate burns or sticks to the pan.
- Add Flavor and Color: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the peppermint extract evenly throughout the mixture. If desired, add a few drops of green food coloring and mix until the color is uniform.
- Pour into Pan: Transfer the smooth fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly and smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Prepare White Chocolate Swirl (optional): Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval until completely smooth. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the fudge and gently swirl with a toothpick to create a marbled effect.
- Garnish: Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or chocolate shavings on top of the fudge for extra texture and festive decoration.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours or until it is firm and fully set.
- Serve: Use the parchment overhang to lift the fudge from the pan, cut into 25 small squares, and serve chilled.
Notes
- Store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, freeze fudge in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
- For a richer, more intense chocolate flavor, substitute semisweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips.
