Candy Cane Fudge Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate festive treat, look no further than Candy Cane Fudge! This luscious holiday dessert bursts with creamy white chocolate, a pop of peppermint extract, and a perfectly crunchy sprinkle of candy cane bits. Not only does it come together in minutes (with just a handful of ingredients!), but it also looks as beautiful as it tastes. Whether you’re making it for Christmas parties, homemade gifts, or just to nibble by the fire, Candy Cane Fudge will soon be a cherished seasonal favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how few ingredients it takes to create a batch of magical, melt-in-your-mouth Candy Cane Fudge. Every element matters — from the silky white chocolate to the festive splash of peppermint — so choose good-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.

• Candy canes, chopped (1½ cups): The star of the show, offering both a sweet peppermint flavor and irresistible crunch in every bite. Crush them just enough for texture — not dust!
• White chocolate chips (20 ounces): These provide the rich, creamy foundation for our fudge. Choose good-quality chips for a truly luscious end result.
• Sweetened condensed milk (14 ounces): This brings sweetness and a smooth, fudgy texture that holds everything together beautifully.
• Peppermint extract (1 teaspoon): Just a splash amplifies the candy cane theme with a cool, wintry zing.

How to Make Candy Cane Fudge

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Line an 8×8-inch casserole dish or a small baking sheet with aluminum foil, leaving enough overhang to pull out the fudge later. Give the foil a quick mist of nonstick spray for easy removal. This simple step ensures your Candy Cane Fudge has clean edges and pops out effortlessly once set!

Step 2: Crush the Candy Canes

Place your candy canes into a sturdy zip-top plastic bag, then use a rolling pin to gently bash them up. The goal here is to achieve a mix of small pieces and tiny shards — enough texture to get that signature candy cane crunch, but not so fine that you lose those delightful pink and white speckles throughout your fudge.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate Base

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir steadily, watching as the chips melt and you’re left with a glossy, thick mixture. Don’t worry if a few little chips remain — once you take the pan off the heat and give it a final stir, those will melt right in for a beautifully smooth fudge base.

Step 4: Infuse with Peppermint and Add Candy

Off the heat, add the peppermint extract and 1 cup of your crushed candy canes. Mix quickly and thoroughly, folding the colorful candy throughout so every bite of your Candy Cane Fudge is loaded with holiday cheer.

Step 5: Pour and Top

Immediately pour your fudge mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the top as best you can. While it’s still warm, sprinkle the remaining half cup of crushed candy canes over the surface and gently press them in so they become part of the top layer. This not only decorates your fudge with a candy cane snowstorm but adds another layer of crunchy texture.

Step 6: Chill and Slice

Refrigerate for at least 2 to 3 hours, or until the fudge is completely set. For neat, pretty squares, score your fudge before chilling and then slice all the way through once set. Lift the whole block from the pan using the foil overhang and cut into small squares — every piece a jewel of peppermint perfection!

How to Serve Candy Cane Fudge

Garnishes

The beauty of Candy Cane Fudge is that it hardly needs embellishment, but for extra flair, add a final pinch of candy cane bits or a drizzle of melted white chocolate on top just before serving. If you want to turn up the holiday sparkle, a tiny sprinkle of edible glitter or snowflake-shaped sprinkles can make your dessert table even more magical.

Side Dishes

This fudge plays well with its classic holiday friends! Pair it alongside a platter of assorted Christmas cookies, a mug of hot cocoa, or coffee after a festive meal. Its bold peppermint pop makes it a standout among more traditional sweets like sugar cookies or gingerbread men.

Creative Ways to Present

Candy Cane Fudge makes a darling edible gift! Pile squares in clear cellophane bags and tie with a bright ribbon, or tuck them into a festive holiday tin lined with parchment paper. For parties, place fudge pieces in mini cupcake liners on a tray for easy serving and an extra touch of class.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Candy Cane Fudge is fully set and cut, store the pieces in an airtight container. Keep them in the refrigerator, where they’ll last up to two weeks without losing their creamy texture or festive crunch. Layer parchment paper between the fudge squares if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing

Candy Cane Fudge freezes beautifully! Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then pop them all into a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready for a nibble, thaw pieces overnight in the fridge. The flavor and snap of the candy canes hold up wonderfully.

Reheating

There’s really no need to reheat Candy Cane Fudge, as it’s best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you like a slightly softer texture, just let the fudge rest on the counter for 10–15 minutes before serving. Melting is not recommended, as the peppermint bits will lose their crunch.

FAQs

Can I use different flavors of chocolate chips instead of white chocolate for Candy Cane Fudge?

Absolutely! While white chocolate is classic for that snowy look, milk or dark chocolate chips make delicious variations. Just keep in mind the flavor profile will shift, and the peppermint might play differently against a richer chocolate.

Why is my fudge grainy or not setting properly?

Usually, graininess happens if the chocolate overheats or the mixture isn’t stirred enough. Be sure to melt on low heat and stir constantly until smooth. If your fudge isn’t setting, it may need a bit more chilling time in the fridge.

Can I make Candy Cane Fudge without peppermint extract?

Yes, but keep in mind you’ll lose that extra punch of peppermint flavor. The crushed candy canes provide some, but the extract truly makes the peppermint pop. For a subtle version, just omit or reduce the extract as desired.

Is it possible to make this fudge dairy-free?

It sure is. Use dairy-free white chocolate chips and swap the sweetened condensed milk with a plant-based version (available at specialty stores or online). The result will be just as creamy and festive!

How far ahead can I make Candy Cane Fudge for gifting?

This recipe is ideal for making ahead! Prepare your Candy Cane Fudge up to two weeks in advance, keeping it chilled and well-wrapped. It stays fudgy, fresh, and delicious for gifting right through the holiday season.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a longtime holiday baker or just dipping your toe into festive treats, Candy Cane Fudge is a true showstopper. It’s easy, ultra-decadent, and radiates that merry, cozy feeling we love so much this time of year. Make a batch soon — you’ll be amazed how quickly it disappears!

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