Peppermint Swirl Fudge

If there’s one treat that captures the magic of Christmas in a single bite, it’s Peppermint Swirl Fudge. Creamy, melt-in-your-mouth fudge swirled with festive red and white colors — it’s a holiday masterpiece that’s as stunning as it is simple.

The combination of smooth vanilla fudge and cool peppermint flavor brings together two seasonal favorites in one beautiful dessert. Whether you’re gifting it, serving it at a holiday party, or sneaking a few squares with hot cocoa by the fire, this fudge makes every moment feel a little more merry.

🎄 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just any fudge — it’s a no-fail, no-fuss holiday classic that even beginner bakers can make perfectly every time.

✨ Simple ingredients: You only need a few pantry staples.
✨ Festive presentation: That red and white swirl looks straight out of a Christmas bakery.
✨ Perfect for gifting: Wrap it up in cellophane bags or tins — instant homemade presents.
✨ Crowd-pleasing flavor: A balance of creamy vanilla sweetness and refreshing peppermint coolness.

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy, elegant, and completely irresistible, you’ve found it.

🍭 Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need 7 simple ingredients to make this holiday favorite:

🧈 3 cups white chocolate chips
🥛 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
🌿 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
🍬 ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
🎨 Red gel food coloring (not liquid, for vibrant color)
🍭 Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies, for topping
✨ Pinch of salt

Optional: Add mini marshmallows or white chocolate drizzle for extra flair!

👩‍🍳 How to Make Peppermint Swirl Fudge

Making fudge might sound tricky, but this version is completely foolproof — no candy thermometer required.

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Line an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy lifting later. Lightly grease the parchment with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Melt the Base

In a medium saucepan, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk over low heat. Stir constantly until the chocolate melts and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.

Remove from heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and salt.

Step 3: Create the Swirl

Pour about two-thirds of the fudge mixture into your prepared pan and spread it evenly.

Add a few drops of red gel food coloring to the remaining third of the mixture in the saucepan and stir until you get a vibrant red color.

Spoon the red fudge on top of the white layer and use a butter knife or skewer to gently swirl the two colors together in a circular motion. Don’t overmix — you want to see distinct swirls!

Step 4: Add the Topping

Sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint candies over the top while it’s still soft, pressing them lightly into the fudge so they stick.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Refrigerate for 2–3 hours, or until firm. Once set, lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment overhang and cut it into small squares with a sharp knife.

🍫 Tips for the Perfect Peppermint Fudge

⭐ Use quality white chocolate chips: Cheap chocolate may seize or become grainy — brands like Ghirardelli or Nestlé work best.

⭐ Don’t overheat: White chocolate burns easily. Melt slowly over low heat and stir constantly.

⭐ Swirl gently: Too much swirling will blend the colors — you want that marbled candy-cane look!

⭐ Add texture: Fold in mini marshmallows, crushed Oreos, or chopped white chocolate chunks for extra fun.

⭐ Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for 2 weeks.

🎁 How to Gift Peppermint Fudge

Homemade fudge makes the sweetest Christmas gift — literally! Here’s how to turn your Peppermint Swirl Fudge into the perfect holiday present:

🎀 Step 1: Cut into neat 1-inch squares.
🎀 Step 2: Wrap each piece in parchment or wax paper.
🎀 Step 3: Arrange in decorative tins or jars with festive ribbons.
🎀 Step 4: Add a handwritten tag — “Made with love & peppermint joy!”

It’s a thoughtful, budget-friendly gift that feels special — and who can resist peppermint fudge during the holidays?

☕ Serving Ideas

This fudge pairs perfectly with:

A steaming mug of hot cocoa topped with whipped cream ☕
Coffee with peppermint creamer for a holiday kick
Crushed over vanilla ice cream for a peppermint sundae
Added to dessert platters alongside cookies, brownies, and truffles

It’s also a fun addition to Christmas dessert boards — colorful, bite-sized, and totally Instagram-worthy!

🎅 Variations to Try

If you love to experiment, try these creative twists:

🍫 Chocolate Peppermint Swirl Fudge: Replace half the white chocolate chips with milk or dark chocolate for a marbled chocolate-mint combo.

🍓 Strawberry Peppermint Fudge: Add a drop of strawberry extract with the red swirl for a fruity surprise.

🍥 Layered Fudge Bars: Make two batches — one peppermint, one plain vanilla — and stack them for a festive layered effect.

Each variation keeps that signature Christmas charm while adding your own personal touch.

🌟 Why This Recipe Works

This Peppermint Swirl Fudge strikes the perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and refreshing. The texture is silky and smooth, with just enough crunch from the candy cane topping.

It’s the ultimate holiday treat trifecta:

Looks impressive 🎨
Tastes incredible 😋
Requires zero stress 🙌

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe guarantees perfect results every time.

❤️ Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about peppermint — it instantly feels like Christmas. And when it’s swirled into rich, velvety fudge, that magic doubles.

This Peppermint Swirl Fudge is a show-stopping dessert that embodies everything we love about the holiday season: vibrant colors, cozy flavors, and the joy of sharing sweet moments with family and friends.

So go ahead — put on your favorite Christmas playlist, crush some candy canes, and make a batch of this gorgeous fudge. Your kitchen will smell like the North Pole, and your heart (and taste buds) will thank you.