Peppermint Chunk Fudge Recipe
This Peppermint Chunk Fudge is a decadent no-bake treat combining rich chocolate, velvety cocoa, and refreshing peppermint chunks. Perfect for the holiday season or any festive occasion, this fudge features a smooth, buttery base mixed with crushed candy canes and topped with melted chocolate and additional peppermint pieces for extra texture and flavor.
- Author: Cara
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 32 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Fudge Base
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, lightly packed
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups Ghirardelli Peppermint Chunks (plus more for garnish)
- 4 tablespoons candy canes, crushed (divided)
- 2 tablespoons candy sprinkles
Chocolate Topping
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- Mix Butter and Sugars: Using a handheld mixer, blend together the softened butter, brown sugar, white sugar, peppermint extract, and milk until well incorporated and creamy.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt to the mixture. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the fudge base.
- Incorporate Peppermint: Fold in the peppermint chunks and two tablespoons of the crushed candy canes evenly through the fudge base. Set aside.
- Prepare Pan: Line a 9-inch by 9-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving about two inches of paper extending over the sides for easy removal after setting.
- Press Mixture into Pan: Evenly press the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, making sure to get into all the corners. Use a small plastic tumbler or rolling pin to smooth and level the surface.
- Melt Chocolate Topping: Using a double boiler, melt together the semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Pour and Smooth Chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the fudge base and smooth it into an even layer over the surface.
- Add Garnishes: Sprinkle extra peppermint chunks and the remaining crushed candy canes on top of the chocolate layer for added texture and festive appearance.
- Refrigerate to Set: Place the fudge in the refrigerator and chill for 2 hours until completely set.
- Serve: Remove from refrigerator, allow to sit at room temperature for 5 minutes to soften slightly, then lift out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into 32 squares for serving.
Notes
- Use parchment paper with overhang for easy removal of fudge from the pan.
- Do not overmix the dry ingredients to maintain a tender texture.
- The peppermint chunks used are Ghirardelli brand for an intense peppermint flavor, but any peppermint candies can be substituted.
- The fudge should be stored in the refrigerator and will keep well for up to 1 week.
- Allowing fudge to sit at room temperature briefly before cutting makes slicing easier.
Keywords: peppermint fudge, peppermint chunks, no bake fudge, holiday dessert, chocolate peppermint fudge, Christmas treat