There’s something undeniably joyful about the holiday season — the twinkling lights, the cozy gatherings, and the irresistible aroma of baked treats wafting through the air. This Peppermint Swirl Fudge is my go-to festive delight, combining rich dark chocolate with creamy white chocolate swirls that evoke the magic of the holidays. I love how it merges the classic flavors of peppermint and chocolate into one luscious, melt-in-your-mouth indulgence.

The best part? You can whip this show-stopping treat up without ever turning on the oven! Perfect for sharing at potlucks or gifting to friends and family, this fudge has quickly become a staple in my holiday repertoire. Plus, it’s a breeze to customize — whether you’d like to play with flavors or toppings, the possibilities are endless. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create a dessert that will have everyone sneaking back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe

Joyful moments: This recipe brings the holiday spirit to life, capturing the flavors and excitement of the season.
No-bake simplicity: Perfect for beginners or busy schedules, no oven is required!
Customizable delight: Easily swap extracts or toppings to suit your taste.
Festively stunning: The striking red and white swirls make it a visual treat at any gathering.
Crowd-pleaser: A decadent treat that will delight friends and family, making it a must-have for your holiday spread.

Peppermint Swirl Fudge Ingredients

For the Chocolate Base

Dark or Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Choose semi-sweet for a balanced taste; dark offers a richer flavor.
Butter – Ensures the chocolate melts smoothly, adding a touch of richness.
Sweetened Condensed Milk – Acts as a crucial binder; make sure it’s at room temperature to avoid chocolate seizing.

For the Swirl Layer

White Chocolate Chips – Essential for the light swirls; go for high-quality chocolate for the best results.
Peppermint Extract – This adds festive flavor without extra liquid; measure carefully to avoid overpowering the fudge.
Red Gel Food Coloring – A small amount will create beautiful swirls; avoid too much to keep the chocolate white.

For the Topping

Crushed Peppermint Candy – Use candy canes for decoration and added crunch, making this fudge not only tasty but festive, too!

How to Make Peppermint Swirl Fudge

Melt Chocolate Base: Use a double boiler to gently melt 2 cups of dark chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon butter and 14 oz of room-temperature sweetened condensed milk until smooth and glossy. This ensures a rich base for your fudge.
Prepare Swirl Layer: In a separate bowl, melt 1½ cups of white chocolate with ⅓ cup sweetened condensed milk. Stir until smooth, and gently add small amounts of red gel food coloring, swirling to create vibrant red ribbons.
Layer in Pan: Pour ¾ of the chocolate base into an 8×8-inch lined baking dish. Drop spoonfuls of the peppermint swirl layer on top, taking care not to pour it directly to maintain the layers’ separation.
Swirl Together: Use a skewer or knife to create wide figure-eight movements through the layers, blending them slightly without over-mixing. This will give you that beautiful marbled effect!
Top and Set: Add the remaining chocolate base over the peppermint drops, create another gentle swirl, and then sprinkle with crushed peppermint candy for a festive crunch on top.
Chill: Refrigerate uncovered for at least 3 hours until set and firm to the touch, ensuring the surface has a matte finish for that perfect fudge texture.
Cut and Serve: Use a hot knife to slice clean pieces, ensuring each bite captures that dreamy swirl of flavors. Serve as needed and enjoy the smiles!

Optional: Drizzle with melted dark chocolate for an extra luxurious touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Peppermint Swirl Fudge treats are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the chocolate base and peppermint swirl layers up to 24 hours in advance. Simply melt and combine the chocolate and condensed milk as directed, then refrigerate the separate layers in airtight containers. When ready to finish the fudge, follow the layering and swirling instructions, and let it chill in the fridge for at least 3 hours. This method maintains quality, ensuring your fudge is just as delicious and visually stunning when it’s time to serve. Enjoy creating delightful festive moments with ease!

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Swirl Fudge

Fridge: Keep your Peppermint Swirl Fudge in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Store it in a cool area to maintain its texture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the fudge in individual pieces, wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag, for up to 2 months.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply transfer the fudge to the fridge to thaw overnight, or let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

Reheating: There’s no need to reheat fudge, but if you want a meltier texture, microwave it in short intervals (5-10 seconds) to achieve your desired warmth.

Peppermint Swirl Fudge Variations

Feel free to get creative with this fudge recipe to make it your own!

Different Extracts: Swap peppermint extract for almond or orange extract to give a unique twist. These flavors complement chocolate beautifully.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped toasted nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the fudge for added texture and a delightful nutty flavor that elevates each bite.
Colorful Presentation: Use green food coloring along with red for a vibrant holiday display. A mix of colors can brighten any dessert spread!
Candy Mix-In: Instead of crushed peppermint candy, try mini chocolate chips or sprinkles. This adds delightful surprises with every bite.
Layered Surprise: Create a layered effect by alternating between peppermint and raspberry flavors. This fruity addition offers a fresh tang that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
Dessert Cups: Transform the fudge into mini cheesecakes by layering it in dessert cups with whipped cream and crumbled graham crackers. A fun twist on classic flavors!
Heat It Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chocolate base. This surprising kick will delight adventurous tastebuds!
Dairy-Free Option: Use dark dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut condensed milk for a deliciously creamy vegan version that everyone can enjoy.

What to Serve with Peppermint Swirl Fudge?

The perfect accompaniment to elevate your holiday experience with vibrant flavors and warm memories.

Hot Cocoa: The rich, chocolatey goodness thickens the indulgence, while a hint of peppermint brings the warmth of the season.
Peppermint Tea: This refreshing brew enhances the fudge’s peppermint notes, offering a soothing, aromatic contrast that delights the palate.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The freshness of the strawberries provides a juicy contrast to the fudge’s richness and adds a touch of elegance to your dessert table.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and cool, this classic pairing softens the sweetness and creates a delightful texture combination that feels indulgent yet refreshing.
Holiday Sugar Cookies: These soft, sweet confections are a festive favorite. Their buttery crumble complements the rich flavors of the fudge while adding a playful touch to your spread.
Whipped Cream: A dollop on top creates a light and airy contrast, enhancing both the texture and flavor of your fudge experience.
Sparkling Cider: The bubbly sweetness of sparkling cider brings festive cheer to your gathering, effortlessly balancing the rich, chocolatey indulgence of the fudge.

Embrace the season and make every gathering memorable with these delightful pairings!

Expert Tips for Peppermint Swirl Fudge

Melt Method: Avoid using a microwave, as this can cause chocolate to seize. Stick to a double boiler for perfect melting.
Temperature Matters: Ensure sweetened condensed milk is at room temperature before mixing to maintain a smooth consistency in your fudge.
Color with Care: When using red gel food coloring, start with a tiny amount. You can always add more, but too much can alter the fudge’s texture.
Layer Wisely: Drop spoonfuls of the peppermint swirl layer gently on top of the chocolate base instead of pouring; this keeps your festive layers beautifully defined.
Clean Cuts: Use a hot knife to slice your fudge for clean pieces. This will enhance the presentation during your holiday gatherings.
Storage Tips: Keep your Peppermint Swirl Fudge in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for longer-lasting enjoyment.

Peppermint Swirl Fudge Recipe FAQs

What kind of chocolate should I use for the fudge?
I recommend using high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips for the base. Semi-sweet provides a balanced taste while dark chocolate offers a richer flavor. Make sure they have a good cocoa content for optimal taste and texture!

How do I store the Peppermint Swirl Fudge?
Keep your fudge in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. For best texture, store it in a cool area, avoiding any spots that might fluctuate in temperature. If you notice it getting too soft, you can always pop it back in the fridge to firm up again.

Can I freeze Peppermint Swirl Fudge?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This will help prevent freezer burn. Your fudge can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just transfer the fudge to the fridge to thaw overnight or let sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

What if my chocolate seizes while melting?
If your chocolate seizes up, it’s usually due to moisture. To fix this, you can try adding a small amount of vegetable oil or butter to help bring it back to a smoother state. However, moving forward, make sure your utensils are completely dry and avoid any steam from the double boiler when melting.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Definitely! For those who might have allergies, ensure that your chocolate chips and peppermint extract are free from any allergens, such as dairy or nuts, if needed. Also, for pet owners, remember that chocolate is toxic to dogs, so keep this sweet treat out of reach of your furry friends!

Can I customize the flavors in this fudge?
Yes, you can recreate this Peppermint Swirl Fudge in many delicious ways! Swap the peppermint extract for orange or almond extract to give it a different flavor profile. Feel free to add your favorite nuts or even different colored gel food coloring to make it more festive!