The Story & Intro
Every year when the holidays roll around, I can’t help but feel that familiar spark of excitement that takes me straight back to my childhood kitchen in Crete. Even though Peppermint Candy Cane Fudge isn’t a traditional Greek treat, it’s one of those sweets that instantly captures the magic of the season. The smell of crushed candy canes and creamy melted chocolate feels like winter wrapped in sugar. I still remember the first time I made peppermint fudge my kitchen was an absolute disaster, bowls everywhere, chocolate drips where they definitely shouldn’t have been, and candy cane dust covering half the counter. But the moment I tasted that first velvety, minty bite, I knew it was worth every bit of the mess.
Now, combining my Greek roots with the festive flavors of the U.S., Peppermint Candy Cane Fudge has become one of my favorite holiday recipes to share. My grandmother, who taught me everything I know about cooking with love, would laugh watching me smash candy canes inside a towel, calling it “therapy you can eat afterward.” She wasn’t wrong! This fudge is creamy, sweet, perfectly pepperminty, and sprinkled with crunchy bits that make each bite feel like a holiday celebration.
Whether you enjoy this treat curled up with hot cocoa, use it as a homemade gift, or snack on it while decorating your Christmas tree, Peppermint Candy Cane Fudge brings people together in the best way. Its simplicity makes it perfect for new cooks, kids helping in the kitchen, or anyone who wants to create something delicious without stress. And honestly? When the kitchen gets a little messy, it only adds to the fun.
From my island kitchen in Crete to your home in the U.S., I hope this Peppermint Candy Cane Fudge becomes one of your favorite holiday memories, too.
Short 100-Word Version of My Story
Hi, I’m Marilyn from Crete, and Peppermint Candy Cane Fudge has become one of my favorite holiday treats to share. Even though it isn’t a Greek classic, the creamy chocolate and crunchy peppermint bring a festive warmth that reminds me of cozy winter days. I learned from my grandmother that cooking is about love, fun, and sometimes a little bit of mess and this fudge embodies all of that. It’s easy, delicious, and perfect for gifting or enjoying with family. Every holiday season, this peppermint candy cane fudge fills my kitchen with sweetness, laughter, and beautiful memories.
Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Candy Cane Fudge
- Ultra-creamy with perfect peppermint flavor
- No-bake and beginner-friendly
- Only a handful of ingredients
- Great for gifting
- Festive and fun to make
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 cup crushed candy canes (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- A pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Pan
Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving extra hanging over the sides so you can easily lift out the peppermint candy cane fudge once it’s set.
2. Melt the Chocolate
In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the white chocolate chips, butter, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously so the mixture doesn’t burn. When everything melts together into a smooth, velvety mixture, you’re ready for the next step.
3. Add the Peppermint Flavor
Remove the mixture from the heat and stir in the peppermint extract. Don’t skip this it’s the heart of your peppermint candy cane fudge.
4. Fold in the Candy Canes
Gently fold in the crushed candy canes. The warmth will melt some pieces, adding a beautiful swirl of pink through the fudge.
5. Pour & Top
Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared pan. Sprinkle more crushed candy canes on top for crunch and color.
6. Chill and Set
Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until firm. Once set, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper and slice into squares.
Serving Suggestions
- Perfect for Christmas dessert platters
- Wrap squares in mini gift bags for easy edible gifts
- Serve with hot cocoa, coffee, or warm milk
- Add to cookie tins for a festive variety
Tips for the Best Results
- Don’t overheat the chocolate slow and low is the secret
- Add more or less peppermint extract depending on how minty you like it
- For smoother fudge, crush candy canes finely
- For crunchier texture, leave some larger pieces
Recipe Card 🎄🍬
⏱️ Time:
10 minutes prep
3 hours chill
🛒 Ingredients:
- White chocolate chips
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Peppermint extract
- Candy canes
- Butter
- Salt
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Melt chocolate + condensed milk + butter.
- Stir in peppermint extract.
- Add crushed candy canes.
- Spread into pan.
- Top with more candy canes.
- Chill until firm.
📝 Notes:
- Adjust peppermint extract to taste.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
🍫 Nutrition (Approx. per piece):
Calories: ~150
Fat: 6g
Carbs: 20g
Sugar: 18g
Protein: 1g
Conclusion
Peppermint Candy Cane Fudge is one of those holiday recipes that instantly brings warmth, joy, and festive spirit into any kitchen. It’s easy enough for beginners, fun enough for kids to join in, and tasty enough to impress at any holiday gathering. Whether you enjoy giving it as a homemade gift or keeping it all for yourself (no judgment!), this fudge is sure to become a cherished holiday tradition. Simple, sweet, and filled with peppermint cheer it’s everything homemade treats should be.