Holiday Peppermint Fudge: A Festive Delight
Introduction
With a heart full of gratitude, we embark on a journey to discover the delightful world of Holiday Peppermint Fudge. This recipe marries the rich, creamy taste of chocolate with the refreshing essence of peppermint, creating an irresistible holiday treat. Perfect for sharing at festive gatherings or as a homemade gift, this fudge is simplicity and joy wrapped in one. Join our community to receive more such delightful recipes by subscribing today!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Holiday Peppermint Fudge is a must-make this season, and here’s why. It combines the lusciousness of chocolate with a cool peppermint twist, delivering a taste that embodies holiday cheer! Simple to prepare, it’s a no-fuss recipe that invites you to partake in the joys of holiday baking, regardless of your skill level. Plus, its family-friendly nature means the kids can help crush those candy canes, making it a fun bonding experience.
Ingredients
– 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
– 1/4 tsp salt
– Additional crushed peppermint for topping
Necessary Tools
To make this delicious fudge, you’ll need the following tools:
– Medium saucepan
– Wooden or silicone spatula
– 8×8-inch square baking dish
– Parchment paper
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Feel free to customize this fudge! Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a richer flavor, or add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra kick. For a touch of color, consider adding red or green sprinkles along with the peppermint candies.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, allowing the excess to hang over the sides for easy removal.
2. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir continuously until smooth.
3. Off the heat, stir in peppermint extract and salt until well-blended.
4. Fold in the crushed peppermint candies gently, then pour the mixture into the prepared dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
5. Decorate the top with additional crushed peppermint.
6. Refrigerate for at least two hours until firm. Once set, lift the fudge out and cut it into squares.
Serving Suggestions
This fudge pairs beautifully with a warm cup of cocoa or alongside other holiday treats on a dessert platter. It’s a festive addition to any holiday table or party.
Pro Tips for Success
For the best results, use high-quality chocolate chips for a rich flavor. Make sure to constantly stir the chocolate mixture over low heat to avoid burning. Adding the peppermint extract off the heat helps maintain its fresh aroma.
Storing and Reheating
Store this fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. While it’s best served chilled, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for softer texture. Reheating isn’t necessary with fudge, just enjoy straight from the fridge!
FAQ Section
**Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?**
Absolutely, dark chocolate will yield a richer flavor profile.
**What can I use if I don’t have peppermint extract?**
You can use mint extract as an alternative, but peppermint extract provides the best holiday flavor.
Conclusion
In a season filled with joy and sweetness, this Holiday Peppermint Fudge stands out as a festive favorite. Easy to make and utterly delightful, it’s a recipe sure to become a holiday staple in your home. We invite you to share your creations, leave a review, and tag us on Pinterest or Instagram with your holiday fudge photos!
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional information per piece: Calories: 140, Carbohydrates: 18g, Protein: 2g, Fat: 7g, Saturated Fat: 4g, Cholesterol: 5mg, Sodium: 35mg, Sugar: 15g
