Peppermint Bark Fudge
Highlighted under: Homemade Sweets Recipes
Indulge in the festive flavors of Peppermint Bark Fudge, a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate with refreshing peppermint for a perfect holiday dessert.
This Peppermint Bark Fudge is a delightful holiday treat that brings a smile to everyone's face. The creamy fudge base is complemented by a layer of white chocolate and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candy, making it a festive addition to any dessert table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with refreshing peppermint
- Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
- Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet gift
The Perfect Holiday Treat
Peppermint Bark Fudge is more than just a dessert; it's a celebration of the holiday season in every bite. The combination of smooth chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and invigorating. This easy-to-make fudge is perfect for sharing with loved ones or bringing to holiday gatherings, ensuring that you spread the joy and sweetness of the season.
What sets this fudge apart is its beautiful layers. The rich semi-sweet chocolate base is expertly complemented by a velvety white chocolate topping, creating a stunning visual appeal that is sure to impress. Topped with crushed peppermint candies, this treat not only tastes amazing but also looks festive, making it an excellent addition to any holiday dessert table.
Easy to Make and Customize
One of the best features of Peppermint Bark Fudge is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can whip up a batch in no time. This recipe is perfect for beginner bakers or anyone looking to create a delicious treat without the fuss. Plus, it requires no baking, making it a convenient option during the bustling holiday season.
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can substitute dark chocolate for semi-sweet or even use flavored extracts to give it a unique twist. Add in some nuts or dried fruits for extra texture, or experiment with different types of crushed candies for the topping. The versatility of this fudge allows you to tailor it to your taste, ensuring that every batch is uniquely yours.
Storing and Gifting Suggestions
Storing Peppermint Bark Fudge is easy, making it a fantastic option for gift-giving. Once the fudge has set, cut it into squares and place them in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerated for longer freshness. If you're preparing it as a gift, consider wrapping the fudge in decorative cellophane or placing it in a festive tin for a charming presentation.
This fudge also makes a great homemade gift for teachers, neighbors, or coworkers. You can even include a personalized note with your gift, sharing the story of this delightful treat and your love for holiday baking. With its rich flavors and beautiful appearance, Peppermint Bark Fudge is sure to bring smiles to everyone who receives it.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your Peppermint Bark Fudge:
Fudge Base
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Peppermint Bark Fudge:
Prepare the Fudge Base
In a saucepan over low heat, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and mix in the vanilla extract.
Spread the Fudge
Pour the fudge mixture into a greased 8x8 inch baking dish and spread it evenly. Let it cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
Prepare the White Chocolate Topping
In a separate saucepan, melt the white chocolate chips over low heat. Once melted, stir in the peppermint extract. Pour this mixture over the cooled fudge base and spread evenly.
Add Crushed Peppermint
Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies on top of the white chocolate layer, pressing them lightly to adhere. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully set.
Cut and Serve
Once set, cut the fudge into squares and serve. Enjoy your festive Peppermint Bark Fudge!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Why Peppermint?
Peppermint is a quintessential flavor of the holiday season, evoking feelings of warmth and nostalgia. Its cool, refreshing taste pairs beautifully with chocolate, creating a delightful contrast that excites the palate. This combination not only satisfies sweet cravings but also brings a sense of holiday cheer that resonates with many.
In addition to its delicious flavor, peppermint offers various health benefits. It can aid digestion, relieve headaches, and even have a calming effect on the mind. So, indulging in Peppermint Bark Fudge not only fills your sweet tooth but also provides a touch of wellness during the festive season.
Pairing Suggestions
Peppermint Bark Fudge pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. A warm cup of hot chocolate or a rich coffee enhances the chocolatey flavors of the fudge, making for a cozy dessert experience. Alternatively, you might enjoy it with a peppermint tea for a refreshing contrast that emphasizes the minty notes.
For those looking to elevate their dessert experience, consider serving the fudge alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. The creaminess of these additions complements the fudge's texture and provides a delightful balance of flavors, turning your dessert into an indulgent treat that everyone will love.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, dark chocolate will give a richer flavor to the fudge.
→ How long can I store the fudge?
You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
→ Can I make this fudge without condensed milk?
Condensed milk is essential for the creamy texture, but you can try a vegan alternative if needed.
→ What other toppings can I use?
Feel free to experiment with toppings like crushed nuts, sprinkles, or different flavored extracts.
Peppermint Bark Fudge
Indulge in the festive flavors of Peppermint Bark Fudge, a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate with refreshing peppermint for a perfect holiday dessert.
Created by: Anna Johnson
Recipe Type: Homemade Sweets Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 16 pieces
What You'll Need
Fudge Base
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
How-To Steps
In a saucepan over low heat, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and mix in the vanilla extract.
Pour the fudge mixture into a greased 8x8 inch baking dish and spread it evenly. Let it cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
In a separate saucepan, melt the white chocolate chips over low heat. Once melted, stir in the peppermint extract. Pour this mixture over the cooled fudge base and spread evenly.
Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies on top of the white chocolate layer, pressing them lightly to adhere. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully set.
Once set, cut the fudge into squares and serve. Enjoy your festive Peppermint Bark Fudge!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g