Bring some holiday magic to your dessert table with this Candy Cane Fudge, a smooth and creamy white chocolate peppermint treat that’s festive, fun, and incredibly easy to make. With only three ingredients, this fudge delivers rich, velvety white chocolate with a refreshing peppermint crunch from crushed candy canes. Perfect for Christmas parties, holiday gifts, or cozy nights at home, this fudge is guaranteed to be a seasonal favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super simple: Only 3 ingredients and minimal prep make this fudge perfect for busy holidays.
- Festive flavor: White chocolate paired with peppermint makes every bite taste like Christmas.
- Quick and easy: Ready to set in just a few hours.
- Great for gifting: Slice into squares and wrap for homemade holiday presents.
- Family-friendly: Kids love the colorful, crunchy candy cane topping.
Ingredients
- 2 cups white chocolate chips – Provides a creamy, sweet base that melts beautifully.
- 6 oz sweetened condensed milk – Ensures the fudge has a smooth, luscious texture.
- 2 cups crushed candy canes – Adds peppermint flavor and festive crunch; divided for mixing and topping.
How to Make Candy Cane Fudge
Prep Your Pan and Candy Canes
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal. Place candy canes in a gallon-sized ziplock bag, seal it, and crush with a rolling pin until you have about 2 cups of candy cane pieces. Divide the crushed candy canes in half—one part for mixing into the fudge and the other for sprinkling on top.
Melt Chocolate and Condensed Milk
In the top of a double boiler over medium-high heat, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly until melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat, as white chocolate can burn quickly.
Mix in Candy Canes
Remove the melted mixture from heat and stir in 1 cup of crushed candy canes. Pour the fudge into your prepared pan, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula.
Decorate and Chill
Sprinkle the remaining crushed candy canes on top, pressing gently so they stick. Place the pan in the refrigerator for 4–6 hours, or in the freezer for about 2 hours until fully set.
Slice and Serve
Use the parchment paper to lift the fudge from the pan. Allow it to thaw for about 30 minutes if frozen, then cut into squares and serve.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality white chocolate chips for a richer, creamier fudge.
- Don’t crush the candy canes too finely—larger pieces create a satisfying crunch.
- Avoid overheating chocolate in the double boiler to prevent grainy texture.
- Store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Equipment Needed
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Double boiler (or a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water)
- Rolling pin or mallet to crush candy canes
- Spatula for mixing and spreading
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Peppermint: Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips to the fudge for extra chocolatey goodness.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds along with candy canes on top.
- Layered Fudge: Create a second layer with melted dark or milk chocolate for a two-tone festive treat.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve on a holiday-themed platter with other Christmas candies.
- Pair with hot cocoa, coffee, or peppermint tea for a cozy treat.
- Package in decorative boxes or bags for homemade gifts.
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular sugar candy instead of candy canes?
A: Yes, but candy canes add that signature peppermint flavor that pairs perfectly with white chocolate.
Q: Can this fudge be made vegan?
A: Substitute white chocolate with a vegan variety and use sweetened condensed coconut milk.
Q: How long will this fudge last?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Q: Can I freeze this fudge?
A: Yes, it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before slicing.
Q: Can I make this in a microwave instead of a double boiler?
A: Yes, melt the chocolate and condensed milk in 20–30 second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
Candy Cane Fudge (Only 3 Ingredients!)
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This festive Candy Cane Fudge is a smooth and creamy white chocolate peppermint fudge recipe with a layer of crunchy candy canes on top! Only 3 ingredients!
Ingredients
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 6 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Line an 8×8″ baking pan with parchment paper.
- Place candy canes in a gallon ziplock bag, seal, and crush with a rolling pin (about 2 cups worth).
- Combine chocolate chips and condensed milk in the top pot of a double boiler over medium-high heat. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Stir in 1 cup crushed candy canes, then pour the mixture into prepared pan.
- Sprinkle remaining crushed candy canes on top, pressing gently to stay in place.
- Place pan in refrigerator for 4-6 hours, or 2 hours in freezer.
- Use parchment paper to remove fudge, allow to thaw 30 minutes, then slice into squares.
Notes
- Nutrition info is an estimate and may vary based on ingredients used.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake/Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Final Thoughts
This Candy Cane Fudge is a holiday classic with a modern twist—rich, creamy white chocolate combined with peppermint crunch makes every bite a festive delight. Easy, quick, and incredibly satisfying, it’s the perfect treat to share, gift, or simply indulge in while celebrating the holiday season. Try making it this year and add a little extra sparkle to your dessert table!
