What’s more Christmassy than the fresh, cool flavor of candy canes? This Candy Cane Fudge brings the classic holiday spirit straight to your taste buds with its creamy peppermint-infused white chocolate goodness. It’s an irresistible treat that jingles with sweetness and crunch, perfect for festive gatherings or a cozy night by the fire.
Not only is this fudge delightfully minty and sweet, but it’s also a wonderful way to use up those extra candy canes leftover after the holidays. The crushed candy cane topping adds a perfect textural contrast, making every bite festive and fun.
- Easy-to-make no-bake fudge loaded with peppermint flavor.
- Perfectly creamy white chocolate paired with crunchy candy cane topping.
- A festive treat ideal for holiday gifting or celebrations.
Ingredients
- White chocolate chips: Use high-quality white chocolate chips for the creamiest, smoothest fudge base.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds richness and sweetness to create the perfect fudge texture.
- Peppermint extract: Provides a refreshing mint flavor that complements the white chocolate beautifully.
- Crushed candy canes: Finely crushed candy canes sprinkled on top for classic holiday crunch and color contrast.
Instructions
- Melt white chocolate and condensed milk
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In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir gently and continuously until everything is melted and smooth. This slow melting ensures the mixture doesn’t scorch and results in a silky fudge base.
- Add peppermint extract
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Remove the pan from heat and stir in the peppermint extract thoroughly. The peppermint brings out a cool, festive flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy white chocolate.
- Prepare the pan and pour mixture
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Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour the fudge mixture evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula for uniform thickness.
- Top with crushed candy canes
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Sprinkle a generous layer of crushed candy canes evenly over the surface of the fudge. This adds delightful peppermint crunch and festive red-and-white color, enhancing both taste and presentation.
- Chill until firm
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Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, allowing it to set completely. Proper chilling ensures the fudge slices cleanly and maintains its creamy yet firm texture.
- Slice and serve
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Once firm, remove fudge from the pan using the parchment edges and slice into 12 squares. Enjoy immediately or store for later holiday snacking!
- Chill the fudge thoroughly before slicing to avoid sticky or crumbly pieces.
- Use fresh peppermint extract for the best flavor impact without overpowering sweetness.
- Store fudge in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture absorption.
Storage Tips
Store Candy Cane Fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or refrigerate for longer freshness. Wrap pieces individually in wax paper for gifting or easy snacking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve fudge alongside hot cocoa or coffee for a festive pairing. It also makes a charming homemade gift or a sweet addition to holiday dessert trays and cookie exchanges.
- Gently melt over low heat or use a double boiler to prevent burning the white chocolate.
- Crush candy canes finely for better surface adhesion and a more balanced peppermint crunch.
- For extra festive flair, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top before the candy canes set.
FAQs
- Can I use regular chocolate instead of white chocolate?
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Yes, you can substitute with regular or semi-sweet chocolate, but it will change the flavor profile from sweet peppermint to a richer chocolate taste.
- How long does the fudge keep?
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Properly stored in an airtight container, fudge lasts about 1-2 weeks at room temperature or up to a month refrigerated.
- Can I freeze Candy Cane Fudge?
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Yes, fudge freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Can I use peppermint oil instead of extract?
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Peppermint oil is much stronger, so use very sparingly—usually a drop is enough to avoid overpowering the fudge.
- How do I crush candy canes safely?
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Place candy canes in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush with a rolling pin or kitchen mallet into small pieces or coarse powder.
- Is sweetened condensed milk necessary?
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Yes, it provides the fudgy texture and sweetness crucial for this no-bake fudge’s consistency. Substituting will change the outcome.
Candy Cane Fudge
Equipment
- 1 8×8-inch pan
- 1 stovetop pot or double boiler
Ingredients
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Crushed candy canes for topping
Instructions
- Melt white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk together over low heat, stirring until smooth.
- Stir in peppermint extract evenly.
- Pour mixture into a lined 8×8-inch pan.
- Sprinkle crushed candy canes evenly over the top.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours until firm.
- Slice into pieces and serve.
Notes
- Store fudge covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Use any crushed peppermint candies as a topping.
- For firmer fudge, chill longer before slicing.
