Introduction

This Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge is a rich, creamy treat that combines the comforting flavors of chocolate and peppermint in every bite. Perfect for the holidays or any cozy occasion, it’s easy to make and sure to impress family and friends.

A close-up of a square chocolate dessert with three layers resting on a white marbled surface, the bottom layer is a dense, dark chocolate brownie with a rough texture, the middle layer is a slightly lighter, creamy chocolate with small white marshmallow bits embedded, and the top layer is fluffy white mini marshmallows, sprinkled with small red and white peppermint candy pieces and thin dark chocolate drizzle flowing down the sides, scattered peppermint bits and chocolate chips surround the dessert, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (divided)
1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips
3 tablespoons butter
14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
4 packages of hot chocolate mix (about 1/2 cup)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
4 cups marshmallows (divided)
About 1/2 cup peppermint candy canes or crushed peppermints, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Line an 8×8-inch pan with foil or parchment paper and spray with cooking spray.
Step 2: In a double boiler, combine 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, all the milk chocolate chips, butter, sweetened condensed milk, and hot chocolate mix.
Step 3: Stir continuously over medium heat until the mixture is melted and smooth.
Step 4: Add 2 cups of marshmallows and stir for 1 minute until partially melted and incorporated.
Step 5: Remove the mixture from heat and stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 6: Transfer the fudge mixture to the prepared pan and press the remaining marshmallows evenly into the top.
Step 7: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 4 hours until firm.
Step 8: Once set, cut the fudge into squares.
Step 9: Melt the remaining 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until smooth.
Step 10: Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cut fudge squares and let cool completely before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a stronger peppermint flavor, add a few drops of peppermint extract to the fudge mixture along with the vanilla.
Use crushed candy canes for a festive and crunchy garnish on top of the fudge drizzle.
Substitute mini marshmallows if preferred—they’ll melt more evenly into the fudge base.
To make smaller servings, use a mini muffin tin lined with paper cups instead of one pan.

Storage

Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Allow it to come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving for a softer texture. You can also freeze the fudge for up to three months; thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.

How to Serve

A close-up of a square chocolate dessert held by a woman's hand with red nail polish, showing three main layers: the bottom is dark brown and dense with a crumbly texture, the middle is a lighter chocolate layer filled with white pieces, and the top is covered with small white marshmallows and crushed red-and-white candy, all drizzled with thin dark chocolate lines. The background is a soft blur with hints of festive decorations and the surface has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this fudge without a double boiler?

Yes, you can melt the ingredients gently in a microwave-safe bowl using short bursts of 20-30 seconds, stirring well between each, to avoid burning the chocolate.

Will the marshmallows melt completely in the fudge?

They will partially melt to create a creamy texture but some small pieces will remain, adding a pleasant chewiness and visual appeal when pressed on top.

Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 126 reviews

This rich and creamy Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge combines the comforting flavors of chocolate and peppermint with a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy treat, this fudge features a blend of semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, marshmallows, and a hint of vanilla, topped with crushed peppermint candies and a chocolate drizzle.

Author: Daniel
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
Yield: 16 squares 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Chocolate Mixture

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided
1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips
3 tablespoons butter
14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
4 packages hot chocolate mix (about 1/2 cup)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Marshmallow & Garnish

4 cups marshmallows, divided
About 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candy canes or peppermints

Instructions

Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with foil or parchment paper and spray it lightly with cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the fudge.
Melt Chocolate Mixture: Using a double boiler, combine 1 1/2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips, all of the milk chocolate chips, butter, sweetened condensed milk, and hot chocolate mix. Stir continuously over medium heat until all ingredients are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
Add Marshmallows: Stir in 2 cups of marshmallows and continue stirring for about 1 minute to allow them to melt slightly into the chocolate mixture, creating a creamy texture.
Incorporate Vanilla: Remove the mixture from heat and mix in the vanilla extract thoroughly to enhance the flavor.
Set Fudge Base: Pour the chocolate fudge base into the prepared pan and evenly press the remaining 2 cups of marshmallows onto the surface of the fudge.
Chill: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 4 hours to allow it to set properly.
Cut and Prepare Topping: Once firm, cut the fudge into squares. Heat the reserved 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until melted and smooth.
Drizzle Chocolate & Garnish: Drizzle the melted chocolate over the fudge squares and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies on top. Let cool completely so the drizzle hardens.

Notes

Use a double boiler or a heatproof bowl over simmering water to prevent burning the chocolate.
For a stronger peppermint flavor, increase the amount of crushed candy canes used as garnish.
Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
You can substitute peppermint extract for vanilla extract if you want a more intense peppermint taste.

Keywords: hot chocolate fudge, peppermint fudge, holiday fudge, chocolate peppermint dessert, creamy fudge recipe