Introduction
There’s something undeniably magical about the holidays, and what better way to embrace the festive spirit than with a delightful batch of Peppermint Swirl Fudge? This treat is a delicious blend of creamy white chocolate, a refreshing burst of peppermint, and a playful marbling of colors. Perfect for gift-giving or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this fudge is not only pleasing to the palate but also a feast for the eyes. So gather your loved ones and let’s create this beautiful holiday treat together!
Ingredients
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
- Red food coloring (optional)
- Additional crushed peppermint candies for topping
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Yield: 24 squares
Directions and Instructions
- To begin, line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides for easy removal later on.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Melt over low heat, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Once melted, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the peppermint extract and crushed peppermint candies until they are evenly distributed throughout the fudge.
- If you’re feeling festive, divide the fudge mixture in half. Tint one half with red food coloring, mixing until you achieve a beautiful shade of red.
- In your prepared baking dish, spoon the white fudge mixture evenly across the bottom, spreading it out to create a smooth layer.
- Now, take spoonfuls of the red fudge mixture and drop them on top of the white layer. Use a toothpick or knife to gently swirl the two colors together, creating a stunning marbled effect.
- For an extra crunch, sprinkle additional crushed peppermint candies over the top of the fudge.
- Pop the fudge into the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours, or until it’s firm to the touch.
- Once set, lift the fudge out of the baking dish using the parchment paper overhang and cut it into delightful squares to share and enjoy.
Notes or Tips
For a more intense peppermint flavor, consider adding an extra 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract. You can also customize the color by using green food coloring or even a combination of both for a festive cheer. Ensure the fudge is completely cooled and set before cutting it to achieve clean edges.
Cooking Techniques
Melt the chocolate slowly over low heat to avoid scorching and ensure a velvety texture. Stirring continuously helps incorporate air into the fudge, giving it a light and creamy consistency. The swirling technique is where you can get creative — just a few gentle twists will create a beautiful marbled design!
FAQ
Can I use dark chocolate instead?
Absolutely! If you’re a fan of dark chocolate, feel free to swap the white chocolate chips for your favorite dark chocolate variety for a rich flavor contrast.
How should I store the fudge?
Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Just make sure to keep it tightly sealed to maintain that lovely softness!
Conclusion
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making Peppermint Swirl Fudge, you have the perfect festive treat to share with family and friends! This rich, creamy delicacy not only boasts a refreshing peppermint flavor but also brings a cozy feel to any holiday gathering. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite of this sweet celebration!