Rich and creamy Candy Cane Fudge is the perfect festive treat! This melt-in-your-mouth fudge combines smooth white chocolate with a refreshing hint of peppermint, topped with crushed candy canes for a delightful crunch. Great for holiday gatherings or as a sweet gift for loved ones!
Contents
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Ingredients
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup crushed candy canes, divided
Instructions
- Prep: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Melt: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth and melted.
- Flavor: Stir in the peppermint extract and salt until fully combined.
- Add Candy Canes: Fold in 1/2 cup of the crushed candy canes.
- Pour & Chill: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining crushed candy canes, gently pressing them into the fudge.
- Set: Refrigerate for 2-3 hours, or until firm.
- Cut & Serve: Lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into small squares and enjoy!
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 25-30 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Helpful Tips
- Use High-Quality Chocolate: For the creamiest texture, use high-quality white chocolate chips or baking chocolate. It melts more smoothly and gives the fudge a richer taste.
- Avoid Overheating: When melting the chocolate, make sure to heat in short intervals to prevent burning. Stirring between each interval helps it melt evenly.
- Easy Cutting: To get clean cuts, dip your knife in hot water, wipe it dry, and then slice through the fudge. This helps prevent the fudge from sticking to the knife.
- Perfect Gift Idea: Wrap pieces of fudge in parchment paper and place them in a decorative tin for a sweet holiday gift!
Substitutions and Variations
- Dark Chocolate Version: Swap out white chocolate chips for dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips for a richer, less sweet fudge.
- Mint Chocolate Twist: Mix in 1/2 cup of crushed chocolate mint candies instead of candy canes for a unique twist.
- Nutty Addition: Add 1/2 cup of chopped almonds or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed coconut milk for a vegan-friendly version.
- Different Toppings: Top with festive sprinkles, mini marshmallows, or drizzle with melted chocolate for extra flair!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Can I make this fudge without a microwave?
A: Yes! Simply melt the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk over a double boiler on the stove. Stir constantly until smooth and melted. - Q: How do I store the fudge?
A: Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. For softer fudge, you can keep it at room temperature for up to a week. - Q: Can I freeze the fudge?
A: Absolutely! Wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. - Q: What if my fudge is too soft?
A: If the fudge hasn’t set properly, it may need more time in the fridge. Make sure it’s chilled for at least 2 hours. If it’s still too soft, try adding an extra 1/4 cup of chocolate chips next time to help it firm up. - Q: Can I use peppermint candy instead of candy canes?
A: Yes, you can substitute crushed peppermint candies for candy canes. Just make sure to use the same amount for that delicious minty flavor!