If you are searching for the perfect festive treat to brighten up your holiday celebrations, look no further than this Candy Cane Fudge Recipe. It combines creamy white chocolate with the refreshing zing of peppermint and the delightful crunch of crushed candy canes. Easy to make yet irresistibly delicious, this fudge captures the spirit of the season in every bite. Whether you’re gifting it, sharing with family, or sneaking a piece yourself, this recipe will quickly become a beloved classic in your holiday repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Candy Cane Fudge Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the smooth texture, vibrant flavor, and festive look that makes this fudge so special.
- White chocolate chips: Using 3 cups of high-quality chips ensures a creamy and rich base for the fudge.
- Sweetened condensed milk: A 14-ounce can adds sweetness and helps bind the fudge perfectly without fuss.
- Vanilla extract: Just a teaspoon brings a warm depth that complements the peppermint.
- Salt: A quarter teaspoon balances the sweetness and enhances flavor nuances.
- Peppermint extract: Half a teaspoon delivers that unmistakable holiday mint flavor.
- Crushed candy canes: Half a cup folded in for texture and 2 tablespoons on top add crunch and visual appeal.
- Red gel food coloring (optional): A few drops create a stunning marbled effect that screams festive fun.
How to Make Candy Cane Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Begin by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave an overhang on the sides. This little tip makes it super easy to lift out the fudge later on without any sticking or mess.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
In a medium saucepan set over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips with the sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly until every last chip melts into a silky, smooth mixture. Patience is key here—overheating can cause the mixture to seize, so keep the heat low and steady.
Step 3: Add Flavor and Color
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and peppermint extract. If you want to add a pop of color, now’s the moment to divide the mixture in half and stir some red gel food coloring into one portion. This is what gives your fudge that magical, festive swirl.
Step 4: Incorporate Candy Canes and Create the Marble
Fold half a cup of crushed candy canes into the white portion of the fudge. Pour this mixture into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Then, dollop spoonfuls of the red mixture over the top. Take a knife and gently swirl the two mixtures together for a beautiful marbled effect that looks as good as it tastes.
Step 5: Finish with a Festive Topping
Sprinkle the last two tablespoons of crushed candy canes across the surface, lightly pressing them in so they stick. This adds an irresistible crunch and a lovely holiday touch.
Step 6: Chill and Set
Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until the fudge is completely set. Once firm, lift it out by the parchment paper and cut into about 16 inviting squares to serve or gift.
How to Serve Candy Cane Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Candy Cane Fudge Recipe even more festive, consider topping with a few whole mini candy canes or a light dusting of powdered sugar. Fresh mint leaves or edible glitter also add an elegant yet playful touch that guests will adore.
Side Dishes
Pair this sweet and minty fudge with warm drinks like hot cocoa, peppermint tea, or even a spiced holiday coffee for a cozy, delightful snack. It’s also wonderful alongside a cheese platter where the creamy fudge contrasts with savory bites beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Give your fudge as a charming homemade gift by stacking the squares in a decorative box layered with wax paper or cellophane. Tie it with a festive ribbon and a personalized tag to make it extra special. For parties, arrange the pieces on a holiday-themed platter sprinkled with candy canes for a cheerful display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once made, store your fudge in an airtight container placed in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to one week, allowing you to enjoy that minty holiday goodness whenever cravings strike.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Candy Cane Fudge Recipe for longer, it freezes beautifully. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is usually not necessary. If you prefer a softer bite, simply let the fudge sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can affect the texture and cause melting.
FAQs
Can I use regular peppermint extract instead of the candy canes?
Absolutely! Peppermint extract provides a strong mint flavor, but using crushed candy canes adds both flavor and texture, giving the fudge a wonderful crunch and festive appearance.
What if I don’t have red gel food coloring? Can I skip it?
You can definitely skip the food coloring if you prefer. The fudge will still taste amazing, though the marbled red effect adds a fun and festive touch that enhances the holiday vibe.
How do I prevent the white chocolate from seizing during melting?
Keep the heat low and stir constantly while melting the white chocolate and sweetened condensed milk together. Using a double boiler can also help control the temperature to avoid overheating.
Can I make this fudge dairy-free or vegan?
This particular recipe relies on white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk, which contain dairy. To make it dairy-free or vegan, you’ll need to find suitable substitutes like vegan white chocolate and coconut condensed milk, but results may vary.
Is this recipe suitable for gifting during the holidays?
Yes, the Candy Cane Fudge Recipe is perfect for holiday gifting! It’s easy to make in batches, looks beautiful with its marbled design, and tastes decadent — a sure way to impress friends, family, or coworkers.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have all the insider tips and steps for this joyful Candy Cane Fudge Recipe, I encourage you to dive in and make it your own tradition. The harmony of creamy white chocolate and peppermint crunch is nothing short of magical. Whether sharing at a party or wrapping up as gifts, this fudge will fill your holiday season with warmth, sweetness, and plenty of smiles.
Print
Candy Cane Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the festive flavors of Candy Cane Fudge, a creamy white chocolate treat infused with peppermint and crushed candy canes. This easy-to-make holiday fudge combines smooth melted white chocolate and sweetened condensed milk with refreshing peppermint extract and crunchy candy cane pieces, perfect for gifting or indulging during the Christmas season.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes, plus 2 tablespoons for topping
- Red gel food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring there is an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the fudge once set.
- Melt the Chocolate Mixture: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly to prevent scorching until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Flavorings: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in vanilla extract, salt, and peppermint extract to evenly distribute the flavor.
- Color the Mixture (Optional): If using red gel food coloring, divide the mixture into two portions. Add a few drops of red gel coloring to one half and mix thoroughly.
- Incorporate Candy Canes: Fold 1/2 cup of crushed candy canes into the uncolored (white) portion of the mixture gently to retain some texture.
- Layer and Swirl: Pour the white mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Then drop spoonfuls of the red mixture over the top. Use a knife to gently swirl the two colors together creating a marbled effect.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of crushed candy canes evenly over the surface. Press them lightly into the fudge to adhere.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours or until fully set and firm.
- Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge from the pan. Cut into 16 squares and enjoy or store properly.
Notes
- Use high-quality white chocolate chips for a smoother texture and better flavor.
- Stir constantly while melting the chocolate to avoid overheating, which can cause the mixture to seize.
- Store your fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week for optimal freshness.
- The red food coloring is optional but adds a festive look to the fudge.
