Peppermint Cloud Fudge

As the holiday season draws near, the air fills with the delightful scent of festive treats and the promise of sweet indulgence. Among the many cherished traditions, baking holds a special place, bringing warmth and joy to every home. But what if you could create a show-stopping holiday dessert that tastes incredibly decadent yet comes together in mere minutes? Enter the ultimate Peppermint Marshmallow Fudge – a truly magical concoction that promises to be the easiest, most impressive, and undeniably delicious addition to your festive spread.

This isn’t just any fudge; it’s a creamy, dreamy chocolate delight infused with the invigorating coolness of peppermint and studded with soft, pillowy mini marshmallows. Perfect for Christmas celebrations, cozy evenings, or as a thoughtful homemade gift, this recipe embodies the spirit of holiday cheer in every bite. Forget complicated candy thermometers and lengthy prep times; our 5-minute method ensures a flawless batch of fudge that will leave everyone wondering about your secret. It’s the kind of treat that makes holiday entertaining feel effortless and incredibly rewarding.

Imagine a rich, smooth chocolate base, perfectly balanced with the refreshing zest of peppermint, each square bursting with delightful textures from the crushed candy canes and soft marshmallows. This Peppermint Marshmallow Fudge is designed for those moments when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a testament to the fact that some of the best things in life (and in baking!) are simple and quick. The most challenging part of this entire process? The agonizing wait for the fudge to set up. But trust us, it’s worth every second for that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its incredible convenience. You can effortlessly prepare a batch ahead of time, allowing you to relax and enjoy the festive buzz. Once thoroughly chilled, simply cut it into neat squares, arrange it on a stunning party tray, tuck it into charming gift boxes, or, let’s be honest, simply succumb to its allure and devour it straight from the pan! This fudge is more than just a dessert; it’s a versatile holiday staple that adapts to all your needs, from grand gatherings to intimate family moments. Pair it with a warm cup of hot cocoa or a glass of chilled milk for an unforgettable treat.

The Irresistible Appeal of Peppermint Marshmallow Fudge

Why does peppermint and chocolate create such an iconic pairing, especially during the holidays? The deep, slightly bitter notes of chocolate provide the perfect canvas for the bright, cool zing of peppermint. This dynamic duo is elevated further in this fudge recipe by the addition of fluffy mini marshmallows, which lend an extra layer of soft, chewy texture and a subtle sweetness that complements the rich chocolate base. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that dance on your palate, making each bite an experience to savor. The crushed peppermint candy not only adds a burst of flavor but also a delightful crunch and a beautiful festive speckled appearance.

Why This is Your Go-To Holiday Fudge Recipe

• Unbelievably Easy: With just a handful of common ingredients and two simple melting methods, anyone can make this fudge. No advanced baking skills required!
• Lightning Fast: It truly takes only 5 minutes of active prep time. Most of the work is done by your microwave or stovetop, followed by chilling.
• No-Bake Wonder: Avoid oven space issues during busy holiday baking. This fudge sets beautifully in the refrigerator.
• Impressive Results: Despite its simplicity, this fudge looks and tastes incredibly professional, making it perfect for gifting or impressing guests.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the chocolate type, adjust peppermint intensity, or add other mix-ins to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for Planning Ahead: Make it days in advance and store it in the refrigerator, freeing up precious time closer to your holiday events.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Decadent Fudge

Gathering your ingredients is the first simple step towards creating this holiday masterpiece. The beauty of this recipe lies in its accessible components, most of which you likely already have in your pantry or can easily find at any grocery store. Quality ingredients make a difference, especially when it comes to chocolate and extracts.

• Chocolate Chips: You’ll need about 2 cups (16 oz) of chocolate chips. The choice is yours – white, milk, or dark chocolate chips all work wonderfully. Dark chocolate offers a more intense flavor that perfectly contrasts the sweet peppermint, while milk chocolate provides a creamier, milder profile. White chocolate creates a vibrant, candy cane-like aesthetic and a sweeter taste.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: A crucial ingredient for that incredibly creamy, smooth fudge texture. One 14 oz can is all you need. This acts as both a sweetener and a binder, eliminating the need for granulated sugar or complicated boiling.
• Unsalted Butter: Approximately ½ cup of softened unsalted butter will add richness and a beautiful mouthfeel to your fudge. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the final product.
• Crushed Peppermint Candy: Get ready for that signature crunch and burst of peppermint flavor! You’ll need ½ cup to 1 cup of crushed peppermint candy. Candy canes are a classic choice, but pre-crushed peppermint bits are a convenient option. Remember to reserve some for topping the fudge for an extra festive touch.
• Peppermint Extract or Vanilla Extract: This is where you control the core flavor profile. One teaspoon is generally sufficient. While peppermint extract provides an intense, direct peppermint flavor, vanilla extract can offer a more mellow, background sweetness, allowing the crushed peppermint candy to be the star. If you’re cautious about overpowering the fudge, vanilla is a safe and delicious alternative.
• Mini Marshmallows (Optional): For that extra soft, fluffy texture and a hint of gooey goodness, add about 1 cup of mini marshmallows. They melt beautifully into the fudge, creating little pockets of sweetness.

How to Make Peppermint Marshmallow Fudge: A Simple Guide

Creating this irresistible fudge is as delightful as eating it. Choose between the lightning-fast microwave method or the classic stovetop double-boiler approach. Both yield perfectly creamy results, so pick the one that suits your kitchen best!

1. Prepare Your Pan: Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with either wax paper or parchment paper, ensuring there’s an overhang on the sides. This overhang will act as handles, making it incredibly easy to lift the set fudge out of the pan later. Set this prepared pan aside.
2. Super Easy Microwave Method: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine your chosen chocolate chips and softened unsalted butter. Microwave on high in short 30-second increments, stirring thoroughly after each interval. Continue this process until the chocolate mixture is completely melted and smooth, typically taking around 1.5 to 2 minutes total. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can seize. Once melted, stir in the sweetened condensed milk until well combined and the mixture is glossy. Now, gently fold in half of your crushed peppermint candy (remember to save the other half for the topping) along with your choice of peppermint or vanilla extract. If using, fold in the mini marshmallows as well. Pour the warm fudge mixture evenly into your prepared 8×8 inch pan and sprinkle the remaining crushed peppermint candy over the top for a beautiful finish.
3. Stove-top Method: If you prefer the stovetop, set up a double boiler. You can do this by placing a heat-proof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, ensuring the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water. Add the chocolate chips, unsalted butter, and sweetened condensed milk to the bowl. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly with a spatula or spoon until the chocolate and butter are fully melted and the mixture is smooth and luxurious. Once melted, remove the bowl from the heat. Stir in half of the crushed peppermint candy (reserving some for the top) and your chosen extract. If desired, gently fold in the mini marshmallows. Transfer the warm fudge mixture into your lined 8×8 inch pan, spreading it evenly. Finish by sprinkling the reserved crushed peppermint candy on top.
4. Chill to Perfection: Once the fudge is in the pan and topped with candy, it’s time for the final crucial step: chilling. Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or ideally, overnight. Allowing it to chill thoroughly ensures it sets properly, making it firm enough to cut into perfect squares without crumbling.
5. Cut and Serve: Once chilled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire block of fudge out of the pan and onto a cutting board. Cut into desired squares or festive shapes using a sharp knife. Serve immediately and watch it disappear!

Expert Tips for Cutting Your Fudge

Cutting perfectly neat squares of fudge, especially when marshmallows are involved, can sometimes be a sticky affair. Follow these tips for effortless slicing and presentation:

• Warm Your Knife: The secret to clean cuts, especially with gooey marshmallows, is a warm knife. Run a sharp knife under hot water for a few seconds.
• Wipe Dry: Immediately wipe the hot knife completely dry before each cut. This prevents water from getting into your fudge and ensures a clean slice.
• Clean Between Cuts: After each cut, wipe the knife clean of any sticky residue. This prevents chocolate and marshmallow build-up from tearing the next slice.
• Press Down Firmly: For the best results, press down firmly and evenly rather than sawing back and forth.

Customizing Your Peppermint Fudge: For the Peppermint Enthusiast and Beyond

While the basic recipe is already a winner, there’s always room for customization to perfectly match your taste or to create exciting variations. This fudge is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to truly make it your own.

If you consider yourself a true peppermint connoisseur, you might be tempted to significantly amp up the peppermint flavor. You can certainly add a bit more peppermint extract or even more crushed peppermint candy. However, a word of caution regarding the extract: peppermint extract is incredibly potent, and a little goes a long way. Adding too much can quickly make your fudge taste like toothpaste, overwhelming the delicious chocolate. I typically err on the side of caution, often using vanilla extract instead, because the crushed peppermint candy already provides a robust peppermint flavor and delightful crunch. However, if your palate craves that intense, cool blast, feel free to experiment, perhaps starting with a small increase and tasting as you go. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!

Variations to Spark Your Creativity

• White Chocolate Peppermint Fudge: Swap out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate chips for a brighter, creamier fudge with a striking color contrast against the red peppermint.
• Double Chocolate Peppermint Fudge: Use a mix of dark and milk chocolate chips for a more complex chocolate flavor that stands up beautifully to the peppermint.
• Add a Swirl: After pouring the main fudge mixture into the pan, melt a small amount of white chocolate, tint it with a few drops of red food coloring, and swirl it gently into the fudge for a marbled effect.
• Nutty Peppermint Fudge: For an added layer of texture and flavor, mix in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans with the marshmallows.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Once the fudge is set and cut, drizzle extra melted chocolate (white, milk, or dark) over the top for an elegant finish.

Storage and Gifting Tips

This Peppermint Marshmallow Fudge is not only a joy to make and eat but also makes a fantastic homemade gift. Proper storage ensures it stays fresh and delicious for longer.

• Storing: Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5-7 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If refrigerating, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for optimal texture.
• Freezing: For longer storage, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Gifting: Arrange squares of fudge in decorative tins or festive boxes, separating layers with parchment paper. Tie with a ribbon and add a homemade label for a personalized touch. This fudge is perfect for holiday cookie exchanges, neighbor gifts, or teacher appreciation presents.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s make some Peppermint Marshmallow Fudge NOW! This festive fudge recipe, with its fluffy marshmallows and vibrant peppermint crunch, is truly amazing. It’s the perfect treat to share, gift, or simply enjoy yourself as you soak in the holiday spirit. For more delicious inspiration, be sure to check out our 60 Easy No-Bake Christmas Treats and a curated list of 13 Holiday Peppermint Desserts. You’re sure to find even more ways to bring sweet joy to your festive season!

More Decadent Fudge & Holiday Treats

If you’ve fallen in love with the simplicity and deliciousness of this fudge, you’ll be thrilled to explore more of our easy and irresistible recipes. Whether you’re a fan of rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, or festive flavors, we have something to satisfy every sweet craving. Dive into these fantastic treats:

• Easy Oreo Fudge: A classic favorite combining creamy fudge with crunchy Oreo cookies.
• Easy Buckeye Fudge: The beloved peanut butter and chocolate combination in a simple fudge form.
• Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars: Soft sugar cookie bars topped with a delightful peppermint frosting.
• Ultimate Peppermint Chocolate Fudge Brownies: Rich, fudgy brownies taken to the next level with a peppermint twist.
• Reese’s Chocolate Fudge Cookies: A dream come true for peanut butter and chocolate lovers in cookie form.
• Peppermint Frosted Chocolate Cookies: Chewy chocolate cookies crowned with a refreshing peppermint frosting.
• Easy Peanut Butter Fudge: Simple, smooth, and utterly delicious peanut butter fudge.
• Peppermint Crunch Marshmallow Brownies: A festive brownie featuring crunchy peppermint and soft marshmallows.
• Easy Brownie Truffles: Bite-sized indulgence, perfect for parties or a quick treat.
• Holiday White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Mousse Pie: An elegant and light dessert with a festive peppermint kick.
• Peppermint Tres Leches Cake: A moist and flavorful cake soaked in three kinds of milk with a hint of peppermint.

And don’t forget to check out our Top Baking ChocolaTess Recipes of 2017 for flashback favorite recipes that are always a hit!