Irresistible Peppermint Swirl Fudge : A Magical White Chocolate Christmas Treat

Looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s as festive as it is delicious? This Peppermint Swirl Fudge is your answer. Creamy, cool, and beautifully marbled with red swirls, it’s the perfect treat to celebrate the holidays — or to gift as part of your Christmas dessert boxes. Whether you’re making a holiday platter or a sweet gift, this white chocolate Christmas recipe delivers every time.

It’s also a great choice if you’re planning ahead. This fudge keeps well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for prepping early and serving later. And best of all? No candy thermometer is required. With minimal ingredients and just a few steps, anyone can make this festive favorite at home.

If you love cheerful recipes that look impressive but are secretly easy, like these Pumpkin Truffles, this fudge is going to be your new holiday staple.

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Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to love this recipe:

• Quick to prepare – Under 10 minutes of hands-on time
• No fancy tools required – Just a microwave and a pan
• Eye-catching presentation – Red swirls make it a beautiful addition to dessert tables
• Perfect for gifting – It cuts cleanly into squares and fits perfectly in fudge boxes
• Make-ahead friendly – Stays fresh for weeks when stored properly

And if you’re putting together a dessert buffet, pair it with other holiday treats like Apple Crisp with Oatmeal or Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups to offer variety with seasonal flair.

Ingredients for Peppermint Swirl Fudge

Here’s everything you need to make this creamy and festive peppermint chocolate fudge:

• 3 cups (510g) white chocolate chips
• 1 can (14 oz / 396g) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
• Red food coloring (gel or liquid)
• Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (optional for topping)

Pro Tip: Choose high-quality white chocolate chips. Lower-quality brands often contain fillers that prevent smooth melting.

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Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Make sure you have these on hand before you start:

• 8×8-inch square baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Microwave-safe mixing bowl
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Toothpick or knife for swirling
• Airtight container or plastic wrap for storage

How to Make Peppermint Swirl Fudge – Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Leave enough overhang on the sides to lift the fudge out easily later.
2. Melt the chocolate: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each one until completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat.
3. Add peppermint flavor: Stir in the salt and peppermint extract. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
4. Swirl the color: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan. Drop a few dots of red food coloring on top, then gently swirl using a toothpick or knife. Don’t overmix — you want a marbled look, not a pink blend.
5. Add toppings (optional): Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top for extra texture and holiday sparkle.
6. Chill until firm: Place the pan in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 hours, or until the fudge is fully set. Once firm, lift out using the parchment and cut into squares.

Now your peppermint swirl fudge is ready to enjoy, gift, or share!

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Tips for Perfect Chocolate Peppermint Fudge

• Use good-quality chocolate to ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
• Avoid overheating the chocolate to prevent it from seizing.
• Be gentle with swirling the food coloring — aim for elegant ribbons, not overmixed blobs.
• Let the fudge set completely before slicing to get clean edges.
• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and texture.

If you love low-stress, no-bake treats, you’ll also enjoy these No-Bake Pumpkin Pie Balls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Marble Fudge

Even with a simple recipe, a few missteps can lead to less-than-ideal results. Watch out for these:

• Using cheap chocolate: It won’t melt as well and can become greasy or grainy.
• Adding extract to hot chocolate: This can cause separation. Let the mixture cool slightly before stirring in the extract.
• Adding too much food coloring: A few drops are enough for a dramatic effect.
• Skipping the chill time: Soft fudge will not cut neatly and may be sticky or runny.

For another festive fudge idea, try making themed treats like our Halloween Brownie — just as easy, but with a spooky twist!

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Want to put your own spin on this Christmas fudge recipe? Here are some easy variations:

• Use green food coloring instead of red for a winter-themed twist.
• Add a few drops of vanilla extract along with the peppermint for a smoother flavor.
• Top with holiday sprinkles for a pop of color.
• Swirl in dark chocolate to create a dramatic marbled look.
• Try crushed chocolate sandwich cookies on top for extra crunch.

This is a versatile base you can adapt to any season. For example, replace peppermint extract with orange and red coloring with gold to turn it into a New Year’s Eve treat.

Presentation Ideas for Christmas Fudge Gifts

Peppermint swirl fudge makes the perfect holiday gift. Here’s how to wrap it up:

• Holiday tins: Place the fudge in parchment-lined tins for a polished, reusable gift.
• Decorative boxes: Pack squares into festive cardboard boxes with clear lids.
• Cellophane bags: Use small bags tied with ribbon and gift tags for easy handouts.
• Mini paper cups: Place individual pieces in mini cupcake liners and arrange in a box.

Pair it with other edible gifts like Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls or Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls for a holiday gift basket everyone will love.

Serving Suggestions for Peppermint Dessert Recipes

This fudge is great as:

• A party tray addition at holiday gatherings
• A sweet bite after dinner with coffee or hot cocoa
• A dessert board item alongside cookies, bark, and Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies
• A kid-friendly treat during Christmas movie nights
• A last-minute hostess gift

Cut into small squares and serve with festive napkins or on a decorative plate to really bring the holiday cheer.

How to Store Your Peppermint Swirl Fudge

This fudge stores wonderfully and maintains its texture over time:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Separate layers with parchment paper.
• Room temperature: In a cool place, it lasts up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Looking for another sweet, freezer-friendly option? You might like these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs as a savory side dish to balance your sweets.

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FAQ: Peppermint Chocolate Fudge Recipe Questions

Can I use peppermint oil instead of extract?
Yes, but only use a few drops — peppermint oil is far more concentrated than extract.

Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch pan instead and double all ingredients. Chill time may increase slightly.

Why is my fudge too soft?
It may not have set fully. Be sure to refrigerate for at least 3 hours and measure your ingredients correctly.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Try using dairy-free white chocolate and condensed coconut milk. Keep in mind that texture may vary slightly.

Do I have to use food coloring?
Nope! You can leave it out if you prefer a more natural look, or use natural color powders like beet or raspberry.

Final Thoughts on This White Chocolate Christmas Dessert

If you’re craving a festive, peppermint-packed treat that’s quick to make, beautiful to serve, and loved by all ages, Peppermint Swirl Fudge is the holiday recipe for you. It brings together seasonal flavors, a luxurious texture, and stunning presentation with minimal effort.

It’s the ideal recipe to make with kids, prep in advance for parties, or share as edible gifts. Just like these cozy Pumpkin Twists, it delivers flavor, fun, and festive vibes with every bite.

Call to Action: Share the Joy of Homemade Christmas Fudge

If you loved this peppermint swirl fudge recipe, please share it with your friends and family! And don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more festive sweets, creative holiday gift ideas, and delightful seasonal recipes.

From our kitchen to yours — happy fudge-making and merry holidays!

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