Peppermint Fudge

Prep: 10 min Cook: 5 min Cuisine: American

A rich, creamy peppermint fudge with swirls of peppermint candy and vibrant red coloring, perfect for holiday treats or gifting to peppermint lovers.

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Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 2/3 cup evaporated milk
  • 7 oz. jar marshmallow cream
  • 8 oz. package vanilla chips
  • 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candy
  • red food coloring

Instructions

  1. Combine sugar, butter, and evaporated milk in a saucepan.
  2. Bring to a boil over medium heat and cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
  3. Remove from heat and add marshmallow cream and vanilla chips. Stir until smooth.
  4. Add crushed peppermint candy and stir to combine.
  5. Add a drop or two of red food coloring and mix well.
  6. Let the mixture cool, then refrigerate until firm.

Tips & Substitutions

To achieve a smoother texture, ensure the butter is fully melted before adding the sugar and evaporated milk. If you prefer a more intense peppermint flavor, consider increasing the amount of crushed peppermint candy. For a festive touch, you can substitute vanilla chips with white chocolate chips. This fudge pairs beautifully with Homemade Custard Ice Cream for a delightful dessert combo.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the peppermint fudge as a sweet treat during holiday gatherings or as a delightful gift. For a festive presentation, arrange the squares on a decorative platter and sprinkle additional crushed peppermint on top. It also pairs well with a warm cup of hot chocolate or coffee, enhancing the overall festive experience.

Storage & Reheating

Once the fudge has cooled and set, cut it into squares and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate it, where it can last for up to two weeks. Avoid freezing, as this may alter the texture of the fudge.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Peppermint Fudge contains roughly 323 calories, with 3g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value), iron (12% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value).

323 kcal 16% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3g 6% DV
Total Fat 4.8g 6% DV
Carbs 67.9g 25% DV
Fiber 1.5g 5% DV
Sugar 37g 74% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 138.1mg 6% DV
Potassium 152.8mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 5.6mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 56.4mcg 6% DV
Vitamin C 15.5mg 17% DV
Vitamin D 0.5mcg 3% DV
Calcium 131.7mg 10% DV
Iron 2.1mg 12% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular milk instead of evaporated milk?

While regular milk can be used in a pinch, evaporated milk provides a creamier texture and richer flavor in this fudge. If you substitute, consider reducing the amount slightly to prevent the fudge from becoming too runny.

What can I do if my fudge doesn't set?

If your fudge doesn't set, it may be due to improper cooking time. Try cooking it a bit longer, ensuring it reaches the soft-ball stage (235°F to 240°F). If already cooled, you can reheat the mixture, add a little more sugar, and stir until smooth before setting it again.

How can I add more color to my fudge?

For a more vibrant look, you can add additional drops of red food coloring, mixing well until you achieve the desired shade. Alternatively, consider swirling in some melted white chocolate or using colored sprinkles on top for added visual appeal.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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