This easy White Chocolate Peppermint Fudge is creamy, sweet, and filled with festive peppermint crunch. Made with just three simple ingredients, it is a perfect holiday dessert for Christmas parties, cookie trays, homemade gifts, or a cozy treat to enjoy with family.
If you have never made homemade fudge before, this is a wonderful recipe to start with. You do not need a candy thermometer, complicated techniques, or a long list of ingredients. The white chocolate melts together with sweetened condensed milk to create a smooth, rich base, while crushed candy canes add color, texture, and classic peppermint flavor.
This no-fuss Christmas fudge is also a great recipe to make with kids. They can help crush the candy canes, sprinkle the peppermint pieces over the top, or line the pan with parchment paper. It is simple enough for beginners but festive enough to serve at holiday gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- You only need 3 simple ingredients. White chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and candy canes come together to make a beautiful holiday fudge with very little effort.
- It is perfect for making ahead. This white chocolate peppermint fudge can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container, making it ideal for parties, dessert platters, and edible holiday gifts.
- No candy thermometer is required. The double boiler method gently melts the chocolate, so this recipe is approachable even if you are new to making fudge at home.
- It looks festive with minimal decorating. Crushed candy canes give the fudge a bright red-and-white holiday finish without needing extra frosting or decoration.
Ingredients in White Chocolate Peppermint Fudge
- White chocolate chips. Use one 12-ounce bag of white chocolate chips. They are usually found in the baking aisle of the grocery store.
- Sweetened condensed milk. You need one 14-ounce can. Be sure to use sweetened condensed milk, not evaporated milk, because they are not interchangeable in this recipe.
- Candy canes. Use twelve large candy canes. They are crushed and mixed into the fudge, with some reserved for sprinkling on top.
See the printable recipe card below for the full ingredient amounts and step-by-step instructions.
Substitutions and Variations
- For a stronger peppermint flavor, add one teaspoon of peppermint extract to the melted white chocolate mixture.
- To make a chocolate peppermint fudge, use dark chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, or semi-sweet chocolate chips instead of white chocolate chips.
- If you cannot find candy canes, use crushed peppermint candies. You will need about 1 ½ cups of crushed peppermint candy.
- For extra holiday color, sprinkle festive M&Ms, crushed peppermint bark, or colorful sprinkles over the top before the fudge sets.
Step by Step Instructions
Tips and Tricks
- Keep the double boiler over medium-low to medium heat. White chocolate can burn easily, so gentle heat and steady stirring are important.
- Do not walk away while the chocolate is melting. Stir often until the mixture is smooth and completely combined.
- Line the 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper. This helps you lift the fudge out cleanly once it has set.
- Chill the fudge for at least 4 hours. Overnight chilling is even better. Cutting the fudge too soon can make it sticky and difficult to slice neatly.
- Use a sharp knife for clean pieces. If needed, wipe the knife between cuts.
How To Store White Chocolate Peppermint Fudge
Store leftover white chocolate peppermint fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If you prefer to keep it at room temperature, store it in an airtight container on the counter for about 1 week.
This fudge also freezes well. Place the fully cooled and set fudge in a freezer-safe airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it on the counter until it reaches room temperature, or defrost it slowly in the refrigerator.
Recipe FAQs
Yes. Place the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each one, until melted. Add the sweetened condensed milk and crushed candy canes, then mix well before transferring the fudge to the prepared pan.
The fudge needs enough time to chill completely before slicing. Refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, so it becomes firm enough to cut cleanly.
More Holiday Recipes
- No Bake Eggnog Pie
- Peanut Butter and Jam Thumbprint Cookies
- Christmas Truffles
- Festive Christmas Focaccia
Did you make this recipe and love it?
If you enjoyed this white chocolate peppermint fudge, leave a 5-star review and a comment below. It is a festive homemade treat that is perfect for sharing during the holiday season.
📖 Recipe
White Chocolate Peppermint Fudge
Equipment
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Large Mixing Bowl
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Rolling Pin
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Saucepan
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8×8-Inch Baking Dish
Ingredients
- 1 bag white chocolate chips 12-ounce bag
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk 14-ounce can
- 12 candy canes
Instructions
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Place the candy canes in a large zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin. Set aside. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
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Make a double boiler by adding one inch of water to a medium saucepan. Place a large heat-safe bowl over the saucepan. Add the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk to the bowl, then stir continuously until melted and smooth.
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Reserve ½ cup of crushed candy canes for the topping. Add the remaining crushed candy canes to the melted fudge mixture. Turn off the heat and stir until combined.
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Pour the white chocolate peppermint fudge into the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
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Sprinkle the reserved crushed candy canes over the top. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight. Once firm, cut into small pieces and enjoy.
Notes
- Keep the double boiler on medium-low to medium heat to prevent the white chocolate from burning.
- Always line the baking dish with parchment paper so the fudge can be removed easily after chilling.
- Let the fudge cool completely for at least 4 hours before slicing. Overnight chilling gives the cleanest cuts.
The provided nutrition information is an estimate. Accuracy is not guaranteed.