Mint Chocolate Fudge Recipe
When it comes to irresistible holiday treats, nothing captures the spirit of the season quite like Mint Chocolate Fudge. This easy, no-fuss dessert is everything you want in a homemade candy: creamy, rich, and bursting with cool peppermint flavor wrapped in decadent chocolate. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or need a last-minute gift, these squares are always greeted with smiles and requests for the recipe. Trust me—once you make a batch, you’ll wonder how you ever celebrated without it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed by how just a handful of everyday ingredients can work together to create Mint Chocolate Fudge that’s truly out of this world. Each component plays a special role—don’t skip any if you want the best taste, creamy texture, and festive color.
- Semisweet chocolate chips: They create the luscious, fudgy chocolate base and balance perfectly with the minty flavor.
- Sweetened condensed milk: This is the secret to fudge’s creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture and adds just the right amount of sweetness.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and gives the fudge a smooth, velvety finish—plus, it helps everything blend beautifully.
- Vanilla extract: Gives depth and brings out the natural flavors in both the chocolate and peppermint.
- Peppermint extract: The star of the show! It infuses the fudge with a refreshing, festive flavor that is essential to Mint Chocolate Fudge.
- Green food coloring (optional): Just a few drops give your fudge a pretty minty hue—totally optional but adds a fun, colorful touch.
- White chocolate chips (optional for swirl): Melting and swirling these on top takes your fudge to the next level with a gorgeous, marbled finish.
How to Make Mint Chocolate Fudge
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Begin by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, letting the paper hang over the edges a bit. This little trick makes lifting your finished Mint Chocolate Fudge out of the pan a breeze, and you’ll get those nice, clean edges when you slice it. If you want perfect squares, don’t skip this step!
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate, Butter, and Milk
In a medium saucepan set over low heat, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir constantly and patiently—the low heat keeps everything from scorching, and your efforts will be rewarded with a silky, smooth chocolate mixture. This is what gives the fudge its dreamy, creamy consistency.
Step 3: Infuse With Flavor
Once it’s all melted and glossy, remove the saucepan from the heat. It’s time to add the vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and a few drops of green food coloring if you want that festive pop of color. Stir well to ensure the flavor gets into every bite, and the color is even throughout.
Step 4: Pour and Swirl
Pour your chocolate mixture into the prepared pan. If you’re feeling fancy, melt the white chocolate chips (about 30 seconds in the microwave), drizzle over the fudge, and use a knife to create beautiful swirls across the top. This step instantly makes your Mint Chocolate Fudge look bakery-worthy with hardly any extra effort!
Step 5: Chill and Slice
Pop the pan into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to let the fudge set completely. Once firm, lift it out using the parchment overhang, cut into 36 bite-sized squares, and get ready for the big reveal. The hardest part? Not sneaking a piece before everyone else gets a taste!
How to Serve Mint Chocolate Fudge
Garnishes
A sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies or a few extra drizzles of melted white chocolate can instantly elevate each square of Mint Chocolate Fudge from simple to spectacular. Add a dusting of powdered sugar or a couple of fresh mint leaves for a presentation that says, “I put a little extra love into this.”
Side Dishes
Mint Chocolate Fudge is rich and satisfying all on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, a shot of espresso, or a festive mug of hot cocoa. For a party platter, serve alongside shortbread cookies, berries, or mixed nuts to give your guests a selection of contrasting flavors and textures.
Creative Ways to Present
You don’t have to stop at squares! Wrap pieces of fudge in wax paper twists for a candy shop feel, or place them in mini cupcake liners for a polished look on a dessert tray. Stack a few squares in clear treat bags tied with ribbon for a charming (and delicious) holiday gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Mint Chocolate Fudge fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cool temperature helps it stay firm and luscious, and you can enjoy a piece straight from the fridge for up to two weeks—if it lasts that long!
Freezing
Yes, you can absolutely freeze Mint Chocolate Fudge. Simply arrange the fudge squares in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with wax paper. It will keep beautifully for up to three months—just thaw in the fridge before serving for the best texture.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed cool or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. If you prefer it a little softer, let a square sit out on the counter for 10 to 15 minutes to take the chill off before eating.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of semisweet?
Absolutely! While semisweet offers a perfect balance to the peppermint, milk chocolate chips will give your Mint Chocolate Fudge a creamier, sweeter profile. Just note the sweetness level may increase.
Is the green food coloring really necessary?
Not at all. The food coloring is purely for looks—your fudge will taste just as minty and delicious without it. If you want a more natural approach, simply skip it, or stir in a little bit of matcha for a subtle green hue.
What’s the best way to cut the fudge cleanly?
For tidy, sharp squares, use a large sharp knife heated under hot water and wiped dry between cuts. This makes it easier to slice through the rich fudge without it sticking to the knife.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes! This Mint Chocolate Fudge recipe doubles beautifully. Use a 9×13-inch pan instead of the smaller one, and keep an eye on the chilling time—it may need an extra 30 minutes to set completely.
How do I add a festive topping?
Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies, mini chocolate chips, or even colorful holiday sprinkles onto the fudge before chilling. Press them in lightly so they stick well and stay put when cutting.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a sweet treat that’s both easy and irresistibly delicious, Mint Chocolate Fudge fits the bill every time. It’s the kind of recipe everyone loves, and you’ll find yourself returning to it season after season. Go ahead, give it a try, and don’t forget to share it—you might just start a new holiday tradition!
Print
Mint Chocolate Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 36 small squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of rich chocolate and refreshing mint with this easy-to-make mint chocolate fudge recipe. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients
Main Fudge:
- 3 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 6–8 drops green food coloring (optional)
Optional Swirl:
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Fudge Base: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Melt semisweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter in a saucepan over low heat until smooth.
- Flavor and Color: Stir in vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and green food coloring if desired.
- Set and Swirl: Pour the mixture into the dish, smooth the top. For a swirl effect, melt white chocolate chips, drizzle over fudge, and gently swirl with a knife.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- For a festive touch, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top before chilling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop + Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 20 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
