The Story & Intro

Growing up on the beautiful island of Crete, the holidays always felt a little magical. Even though we didn’t have snowy winters, my grandmother somehow turned our warm kitchen into a cozy little wonderland filled with sweet smells and warm laughter. She taught me that holiday treats didn’t have to be complicated just full of love, good ingredients, and a sprinkle of creativity.

Now, at 38, those memories still inspire me every time I make something festive for my family. One treat that has become a favorite in my home is Peppermint Crunch Fudge. It’s creamy, sweet, refreshing, and so simple that even a messy, chaotic kitchen (like mine on busy days!) feels joyful while making it.

I remember the first time I made Peppermint Crunch Fudge on my own. I didn’t expect such a small twist white chocolate mixed with peppermint to bring back so much warmth from those childhood moments. Suddenly the sound of crushed candies reminded me of my grandmother tapping nuts with the back of a spoon, the way she hummed as she stirred her pots, and the way she always reminded me, “Cooking is about sharing stories, not perfection.”

That’s what I love most about this recipe: it’s quick, comforting, and perfect for gifting. Whether you’re making treats for friends, packing holiday dessert boxes, or keeping a little something sweet at home, Peppermint Crunch Fudge brings people together with every bite. It’s one of those simple recipes that feels festive without taking hours to prepare.

If you’ve ever wanted a holiday dessert that feels special but doesn’t require baking skills, this fudge is for you. The white chocolate melts into the creamiest base, the peppermint candies add the perfect crunchy sparkle, and the swirl of color makes every square look like a tiny Christmas celebration. It’s fun, it’s pretty, and it smells like the holidays rolled into one delicious bite of Peppermint Crunch Fudge.

Let’s make some magic in your kitchen together.

Ingredients

This recipe uses simple, easy-to-find holiday staples that come together beautifully.

3 cups high-quality white chocolate chips
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
½ teaspoon peppermint extract (optional for extra minty flavor)
1 ½ cups crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Red food coloring (optional, for swirling)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Pan

Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting some hang over the sides so you can lift the fudge out easily later.

2. Melt the White Chocolate

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter.
Stir slowly and continuously until everything melts smoothly.
Low heat is your friend here white chocolate can scorch quickly.

3. Add the Flavor

Once the chocolate mixture is smooth, remove it from the heat.
Stir in the vanilla and peppermint extract (if using).

4. Add the Peppermint Crunch

Fold in 1 cup of the crushed peppermint candies.
The remaining ½ cup will go on top.

5. Create the Swirl (Optional but Beautiful!)

Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan.
Add a few drops of red food coloring on top.
Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl it around to create a festive look.

6. Add Extra Crunch

Sprinkle the remaining peppermint candies all over the top.
Lightly press them into the fudge so they stick as it sets.

7. Chill

Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2–3 hours or until firm.
Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper edges.

8. Slice & Serve

Cut into small squares.
This fudge is rich, so smaller portions are perfect!

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled for the best texture and peppermint crunch.
Add to treat boxes or cookie trays during the holidays.
Wrap pieces individually for festive edible gifts.
Pair with hot chocolate or coffee for a cozy winter treat.

This fudge stores well in an airtight container for up to a week, making it ideal for planning ahead.

Recipe Card 📇

⏱ Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooling Time: 2–3 hours
Total Time: About 3 hours

🛒 Ingredients

White chocolate chips
Sweetened condensed milk
Butter
Vanilla extract
Peppermint extract
Crushed peppermint candies
Food coloring (optional)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Line an 8×8 pan with parchment.
Melt white chocolate, condensed milk, and butter in a saucepan.
Add vanilla + peppermint extract.
Fold in crushed peppermint.
Swirl with red food coloring.
Top with more peppermint.
Chill 2–3 hours.
Cut and enjoy!

📝 Notes

For a softer fudge, reduce white chocolate by ¼ cup.
For stronger peppermint flavor, add a bit more extract.
Don’t overheat the chocolate low heat keeps it smooth.

🔥 Nutrition (approx. per piece)

Calories: 125
Fat: 5g
Sugar: 16g
Carbs: 18g
Protein: 1g

Conclusion

Peppermint Crunch Fudge is one of those recipes that blends simplicity, nostalgia, and holiday cheer into every bite. It’s quick, creamy, beautifully festive, and perfect for sharing with the people you love just like the treats I grew up making in my grandmother’s warm kitchen in Crete. Whether you’re preparing a holiday spread or gifting little boxes of sweetness, this recipe brings joy with very little effort. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and that it fills your home with warmth, laughter, and delicious memories.

100-Word Version of Your Story (for recipe pages)

Hi, I’m Marilyn from the island of Crete, where cooking has always been a part of my life. I learned from my grandmother, who filled our home with warmth and sweet aromas during the holidays. This Peppermint Crunch Fudge brings me right back to those cozy memories. It’s creamy, festive, and so easy to make even when my kitchen gets a little messy! I love sharing simple recipes that bring people together, and this one is perfect for gifting or enjoying at home. Let’s make something delicious and create new memories together.