Peppermint fudge, an exquisite confection that embodies the spirit of the holiday season, has captured the hearts and taste buds of dessert enthusiasts for generations. Its velvety texture, vibrant red and white swirls, and invigorating peppermint flavor create a sensory experience that is both indulgent and festive.
The Art of Crafting Peppermint Fudge
While the allure of peppermint fudge is undeniable, its preparation may seem daunting to aspiring home bakers. However, with the right ingredients and a touch of patience, this culinary masterpiece can be effortlessly recreated in your own kitchen.
Essential Ingredients:
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Semi-sweet chocolate chips: The foundation of the fudge, providing a rich and decadent base.
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Sweetened condensed milk: A key component that lends creaminess and sweetness to the fudge.
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Peppermint candies: Crushed and sprinkled atop the fudge, these impart the signature peppermint flavor and festive appearance.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8 inch pan with aluminum foil and lightly grease the surface to prevent sticking.
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Melt the chocolate: In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk together, stirring constantly until smooth.
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Pour into the pan: Transfer the melted mixture into the prepared pan and use an offset spatula to evenly distribute it.
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Sprinkle the peppermint: Crush the peppermint candies and sprinkle them generously over the surface of the fudge.
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Refrigerate: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge has set firm.
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Cut and serve: Once set, remove the fudge from the refrigerator and cut it into small squares. Serve and savor the delectable peppermint treat.
Refrigeration: A Matter of Taste and Texture
A common question among peppermint fudge enthusiasts revolves around the necessity of refrigeration. While refrigeration is not strictly required for food safety, it does play a role in preserving the fudge’s texture and flavor.
Refrigerated Fudge:
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Firmer texture: Refrigeration solidifies the fudge, giving it a firmer bite and preventing it from becoming too soft and sticky.
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Extended shelf life: Storing the fudge in the refrigerator can extend its shelf life by preventing spoilage and preserving its freshness.
Non-Refrigerated Fudge:
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Softer texture: Fudge that is not refrigerated will remain softer and more pliable, with a texture that is less firm.
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Shorter shelf life: Fudge that is not refrigerated may have a shorter shelf life due to the increased risk of spoilage and flavor degradation.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to refrigerate peppermint fudge depends on personal preference and the desired texture. If you prefer a firmer fudge with a longer shelf life, refrigeration is recommended. However, if you prefer a softer fudge with a shorter shelf life, refrigeration may not be necessary.
Tips for Perfect Peppermint Fudge
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Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of the ingredients used will directly impact the flavor and texture of the fudge. Opt for high-quality chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk for the best results.
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Melt the chocolate slowly: Overheating the chocolate can cause it to seize and become grainy. Melt the chocolate slowly and gently, stirring constantly, to prevent this from happening.
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Don’t overmix the fudge: Overmixing the fudge can result in a tough and crumbly texture. Stir the fudge just until the ingredients are combined and smooth.
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Let the fudge set completely: Allow the fudge to set completely in the refrigerator before cutting and serving. This will ensure that the fudge has a firm texture and clean cuts.
Peppermint fudge, with its captivating flavor and festive appearance, is a culinary delight that evokes the magic of the holiday season. Whether you choose to refrigerate it for a firmer texture or enjoy it at room temperature for a softer indulgence, this delectable treat is sure to delight your taste buds and create lasting memories.
Easy Fudge RecipeThis Easy Fudge Recipe is the easiest way to make chocolate fudge. You only need three ingredients; it turns out so smooth and delicious.
With just a few ingredients, this simple fudge recipe can be made in less than ten minutes. One thing I adore about making fudge is that baking chips, sweetened condensed milk, and whatever flavoring you choose are the staples of all easy fudge recipes. While the amounts of each differ, this is the fundamental recipe. See the recipe card at the bottom of the page for the precise measurements of each ingredient in this peppermint white chocolate fudge.
- See my suggestions for melting white chocolate chips below.
- Be sure not to purchase evaporated milk when purchasing sweetened condensed milk. The cans in the grocery store are next to one another and nearly identical in appearance. Please be sure to buy name-brand sweetened condensed milk. Evaporated milk will cause this recipe to fail.
- The main component that gives peppermint flavor is peppermint extract. If you would rather have the flavor, you could also use mint extract.
- Red food coloring is used to give the fudge its festive red swirls, giving it the appearance of a candy cane.
- Andes Peppermint Crunch Baking Chips: They mimic the lovely appearance of broken candy canes without having that strange crunch.
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How to Make Peppermint Fudge
It’s ideal to make this peppermint fudge recipe the night before a holiday get-together because it only takes ten minutes to prepare. Because there aren’t many ingredients, you should use the stovetop’s low, even heat instead of the microwave. Go to the recipe card at the bottom of the page for the complete recipe, which includes all measurements.
- Prepare your workspace. Since this kind of fudge solidifies quickly, prepare everything before melting the white chocolate. Place a butter knife, measured peppermint chips, red food coloring, peppermint and measuring spoon, and lined foil-lined pan next to each other.
- Melt the chocolate. In a saucepan over low heat, melt the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk together until smooth, stirring all the time.
- Add the peppermint. Pour the peppermint extract into the fudge mixture as soon as possible, and then transfer about half of the fudge mixture into the pan.
- Make the red swirls. Sprinkle a few drops of red food coloring over the fudge’s surface.
- Add the rest of the fudge. Using a butter knife, swirl the fudge to create attractive red swirls from the food coloring. Don’t overdo it or the fudge will be pink.
- Top with baking chips. Pour the peppermint baking chips on top of the fudge right away, and leave it overnight to set.
This recipe’s only potentially challenging step is melting the white chocolate chips. It may seize if it overheats, becoming brittle and difficult to work with. Here are some pointers and ideas to maintain the happiness of your white chocolate.
- Stir it like you’ve never stirred before. To prevent the chocolate from burning, stir the mixture constantly. This is not a recipe to walk away from.
- Keep the heat low. Although it comes together quickly, patience is needed when making this recipe. Keep the heat low while you are melting the chocolate.
- If, despite following all the above instructions, your chocolate still seizes, you can easily fix it by adding a small amount of vegetable shortening and thoroughly stirring it in.
Take the fudge out of the foil and cut it into squares on a cutting board after it has fully set, which should take four hours on the countertop or a little less time in the refrigerator.
- Cut off just enough of the edge of the baking pan, if it has rounded corners, so that the fudge no longer has a rounded edge. This will result in a nice, flat bottom for each piece of fudge.
- Cut the remaining block of fudge into four equal squares.
- The smaller squares should then be divided into nine equal parts by first cutting them into thirds, then turning them over and cutting them into thirds once more.
- This will give you 36 equal-sized pieces of fudge.
You can keep your peppermint white chocolate fudge for up to two weeks at room temperature. Fudge freezes well and doesn’t need to be refrigerated. Your peppermint fudge can be frozen for up to three months by placing the batch of cut fudge into a one-gallon freezer bag and storing it there in a flat layer. Allow it to thaw on your counter for one or two hours before consuming or presenting it.
Any fudge recipe that calls for alcohol must have part of the sweetened condensed milk removed in order to make room for the additional liquid. To make 1 cup (8 liquid ounces) of sweetened condensed milk, add 1/2 cup more chocolate chips. Any liquor up to 1/4 cup can be used; the possibilities are endless.
Yes, you can. Just be sure to reheat the white chocolate and sweetened condensed milk together on half power for brief periods of time (about 30 seconds), stirring thoroughly before re-entering the microwave.
Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container in a single layer for up to three months after it has fully set. Just thaw it before serving or consuming.
Only condensed milk can be used for this recipe and any other simple fudge recipe. Evaporated milk is not a suitable substitute; the fudge will not turn out
Quick and Easy Peppermint Fudge, Only 4 Ingredients Needed
FAQ
Does fudge have to set in the fridge?
How do you store homemade fudge?
How do you know if fudge has gone bad?
How long does it take for fudge to set at room temperature?
How do you store white chocolate peppermint Fudge?
Be sure to keep it in a ziplock bag or other airtight container. Store it in a cool place so that the fudge doesn’t melt. Store: To keep the White Chocolate Peppermint Fudge longer, store it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. If you put the fudge squares in a ziplock bag, layer them with parchment paper so they don’t stick together.
How much peppermint flavor should I use?
There is no scientific study that proves the fact. Experimental studies suggest that peppermint oil can reduce appetite, thus facilitating weight loss, but more studies need to be done.
How do you freeze Peppermint Fudge?
Pour the fudge into the prepared pan, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 2 – 4 hours until set. Take the pan out of the fridge and remove the peppermint fudge from the pan. Remove the foil, grate the chocolate mint bar over the top, and cut it into squares.
Does Peppermint Fudge need a candy thermometer?
This Peppermint Fudge Recipe is a simple and easy fudge that doesn’t need a candy thermometer, just sweetened condensed milk. Perfect for the holidays or as a gift, this no-bake dessert is always a crowd pleaser! Perfect for any holiday cookie tray, and so easy to make!