Prepare Your Pan: For effortless removal, line an 8x8 inch square pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving extra overhang. A light spray with cooking spray helps too!
Crush Candy Canes: Place your candy canes in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin. This is a fun way to release holiday stress! Divide the crushed candy canes in half.
Melt to Perfection: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and softened butter. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring thoroughly after each, until the mixture is completely smooth and melted (usually 2-3 minutes). Avoid overheating to keep it perfect.
Stir in Vanilla: Once melted and smooth, stir in the pure vanilla extract until fully incorporated, enhancing that classic flavor.
Pour & Layer: Pour the creamy fudge mixture into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle one half of the crushed candy canes (the finer pieces work best here) over the fudge. This will form the festive bottom layer!
Chill Until Firm: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours, or until the fudge is perfectly set.
Slice with Ease: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the set fudge from the pan. Invert it onto a clean cutting board. For clean cuts, warm your knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and slice the fudge into your desired square sizes (makes 16-32 pieces).
Final Festive Touch: Sprinkle the remaining crushed candy canes over the top of your beautiful peppermint fudge. Lightly press them in to secure. Serve and enjoy this simple, delightful holiday treat!