Quick & Easy Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge Recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge!

Get ready to fall head over heels for this incredible Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge! Here are four fantastic reasons why it’s about to become your new
favorite treat:

• Effortlessly Delicious: This is a no-bake wonder! Forget about complicated techniques or
  turning on the oven. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have rich, creamy fudge ready to chill.
• Festive Flavor Explosion: It’s like a cozy mug of hot chocolate met a brisk winter day and
  they fell in love! The classic combination of warm cocoa and cool peppermint is utterly irresistible and
  perfect for the holiday season.
• Perfect for Gifting & Sharing: Looking for a charming homemade gift? Or a show-stopping
  dessert for your next gathering? This Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge! is beautifully
  present, easy to transport, and always a crowd-pleaser.
• Simply Irresistible Texture: Imagine smooth, melt-in-your-mouth fudge studded with soft,
  fluffy marshmallows, all topped with a delightful crunch of peppermint candy. Every bite is a delightful
  journey of textures!

Unwrap the Magic: Dive into Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge!

Picture this: crisp winter air, twinkling lights, and the comforting aroma of hot chocolate warming your soul. Now,
what if you could capture all that holiday magic, that cozy feeling, and turn it into a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth
treat? Say hello to your new seasonal obsession: Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge! This isn’t
just any fudge; it’s a symphony of rich chocolate, fluffy marshmallows, and a refreshing burst of peppermint, all
whipped up with astonishing ease. Forget the stress of holiday baking – this no-bake wonder comes together in a
flash, leaving you more time to enjoy the festivities (and devour more fudge!). Whether you’re a seasoned
baker or a kitchen newbie, you’re about to create a masterpiece that tastes like pure joy. Get ready to impress,
indulge, and spread some serious sweetness with every square of this delightful Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge!

Gather Your Goodies: Ingredients for Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge!

Ready to create some magic? Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up a batch of glorious Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge! Make sure your ingredients are measured out and ready to go for a
smooth and enjoyable cooking experience!

• 🍫 2 cups (about 12 ounces) semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided
• 🥛 1 1/2 cups (about 9 ounces) milk chocolate chips
• 🧈 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 🥛 14 ounces (1 can) sweetened condensed milk
• ☕ 4 packets (about 1/2 cup) hot chocolate mix
• 🌿 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 🍬 4 cups (about 4 ounces) mini marshmallows, divided
• 🍭 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candy canes or peppermints, for garnish

Your Sweet Journey: How to Make Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge!

Making this Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge! is a breeze! Follow these simple, step-by-step
instructions, and you’ll be on your way to a delightful homemade treat in no time. Precision is key for perfect
fudge!

1. Prepare Your Pan: First, lightly coat an 8×8 inch baking pan with cooking spray. Then, line
   it with parchment paper or foil, making sure to leave some overhang on the sides. This simple step makes
   lifting the fudge out super easy!
2. Melt the Base: Using a double boiler over medium heat, combine 1 1/2 cups of the semi-sweet
   chocolate chips (save the rest for later!), all the milk chocolate chips, the butter, sweetened condensed
   milk, and the hot chocolate mix. Stir gently and continuously until everything is beautifully melted and
   smooth – no lumps allowed!
3. Stir in Goodness: Carefully remove your melted chocolate mixture from the heat. Gently fold
   in 2 cups of the mini marshmallows until they are just combined and start to melt slightly into the warm
   fudge. Now, stir in the pure vanilla extract for that perfect aroma.
4. Set the First Layer: Pour the delicious fudge mixture into your prepared pan and spread it
   evenly with a spatula. Take the remaining 2 cups of marshmallows and lightly press them onto the top of the
   fudge for a cozy, cloud-like finish.
5. Chill to Perfection: Place the pan in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 4
   hours, or until the fudge is completely firm. Patience is key for perfectly set squares!
6. Cut & Drizzle: Once firm, use the parchment paper or foil overhang to lift the fudge
   cleanly out of the pan. Cut the fudge into 12 neat squares.
7. Add a Chocolate Touch: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the remaining 1/2 cup of semi-sweet
   chocolate chips. Heat in short 30-second bursts, stirring well after each, until the chocolate is smooth and
   glossy. Drizzle this melted goodness artistically over your fudge squares.
8. Garnish & Enjoy: While the chocolate drizzle is still wet, sprinkle generously with the
   crushed peppermint candy canes. Allow the chocolate to set completely before serving. Now, enjoy this
   delightful and easy homemade treat!

Presenting Your Masterpiece: Creative Ways to Serve Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge!

You’ve made delicious Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge!, now let’s make it shine! This festive
treat is not only incredibly tasty but also wonderfully versatile when it comes to presentation and serving. Here
are some fun ideas to elevate your fudge experience:

• Festive Platter Perfection: Arrange your fudge squares artfully on a holiday-themed platter.
  Add a few whole candy canes, sprigs of fresh mint, or a dusting of cocoa powder around them for a stunning
  display.
• Charming Edible Gifts: Cut the fudge into smaller pieces and place them in decorative mini
  cupcake liners. Pack them into cute cellophane bags or tins tied with a festive ribbon for the perfect
  homemade holiday gift.
• Dessert Bar Star: If you’re hosting a party, include your Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge! on a dessert bar alongside cookies, brownies, and other
  holiday treats. It’s sure to be a standout!
• Coffee & Cocoa Companion: Serve a square or two alongside a steaming cup of coffee, a warm
  latte, or even another mug of hot chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
• Deconstructed Dessert Delight: For a fancier touch, crumble some fudge over a scoop of
  vanilla or chocolate ice cream, adding a dollop of whipped cream and an extra sprinkle of crushed
  peppermint. Pure bliss!
• Mini Marvels: Use small cookie cutters (like stars or mini trees) to create fun, bite-sized
  shapes if your fudge is thick enough. These are especially adorable for kids’ parties!

Keeping It Fresh: Storing Your Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge!

So you’ve made a batch of incredible Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge! – congratulations! Now, you’ll
want to make sure it stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Good news: this fudge stores beautifully!

To keep your fudge at its best, simply place the cut squares in an airtight container. It’s best
to store it in the refrigerator. The cool temperature helps maintain its firm texture and
prevents it from becoming too soft or sticky. When stored this way, your Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge! will last wonderfully for up to 2 weeks.

If you’re looking to extend its shelf life even further, this fudge is also freezer-friendly! Wrap individual
squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen piece,
simply let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or at room temperature for about 30 minutes before
serving. Enjoy your delicious fudge for longer!

Your Burning Questions Answered: Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge! FAQs

1. Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Absolutely! While semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips create a classic balance, you can experiment. Dark chocolate
chips would make for a richer, more intense Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge!, or white chocolate
chips could offer a creamier, milder flavor. Just ensure you use the specified quantities.

2. What if I don’t have a double boiler?

No problem! You can easily create a DIY double boiler. Place a heatproof glass or metal bowl over a saucepan filled
with about an inch or two of simmering water. Make sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water. The steam
will gently melt your ingredients.

3. My fudge isn’t setting, what went wrong?

The most common reasons are insufficient chilling time or not using sweetened condensed milk (evaporated milk or
other milks won’t work). Ensure you chill it for at least 4 hours, or even overnight, and verify you used the
correct type of condensed milk.

4. Can I omit the peppermint for a classic hot chocolate fudge?

Yes, you certainly can! Simply skip the crushed peppermint candy canes. You’ll still have a wonderfully rich and
delicious hot chocolate-flavored fudge with marshmallows. You could even add some sprinkles instead!

5. How do I easily crush the candy canes?

Place your candy canes in a sturdy Ziploc bag, seal it, and then use a rolling pin or the flat side of a meat
tenderizer to gently crush them. This method prevents a sticky mess and ensures even pieces.

6. Can I use full-sized marshmallows instead of mini ones?

While mini marshmallows integrate best into the fudge and melt more evenly, you can use full-sized marshmallows.
You might need to cut them into smaller pieces before adding them to ensure they melt and distribute
properly.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Generally, yes! Most chocolate chips, butter, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and peppermint candy
canes are naturally gluten-free. However, it’s crucial to check the label of your specific hot chocolate mix to
ensure it is certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten-containing ingredients.

8. Can I add nuts to this Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge!?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds would add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Fold them in along
with the marshmallows in Step 3 for an extra layer of texture and taste.

9. Can I make this fudge ahead of time for holidays?

Yes, this Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge! is an excellent make-ahead treat! It keeps well in the
refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, making it perfect for preparing in advance for holiday parties, gifting, or just
to have on hand for unexpected cravings.

10. What are the nutritional facts per piece?

Based on the recipe yielding 12 pieces, each serving of Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge! contains
approximately: 410 kcal, 58g Total Carbs, 57g Net Carbs, 20g Fats, and 4g Protein.