Peppermint Flavored Marshmallow Fudge

Name: Peppermint Flavored Marshmallow Fudge
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Semi-sweet chocolate – for a deep chocolate base; Sweetened condensed milk – for sweetness and a smooth texture; Mini marshmallows – to add chewy, fluffy texture; Crushed peppermint candies – for festive crunch and mint flavor; Butter – adds richness and helps the mixture melt smoothly; Peppermint extract – intensifies the minty flavor; Vanilla extract (optional) – enhances flavor depth

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There’s something about the festive season that stirs up your most cherished memories—snow-dusted windows, twinkling lights, and the smell of peppermint drifting through the house. One treat that encapsulates all the warmth and joy of the holidays is peppermint flavored marshmallow fudge. This easy no-bake dessert is a seasonal classic you can make in minutes, yet it carries a rich, nostalgic flavor that stays with you long after the last bite.

Whether you’re preparing a tray of goodies for a party or crafting homemade gifts from your kitchen, peppermint marshmallow fudge offers that perfect balance of creamy chocolate, refreshing mint, and soft, chewy texture. It’s a recipe that invites you to slow down and enjoy the sweetness of the season with those you love most.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Marshmallow Fudge

Creating festive treats shouldn’t feel like a chore. That’s where this simple fudge recipe comes in. It’s designed to bring maximum flavor with minimal effort—perfect for busy holiday schedules. Here’s why it’s worth bookmarking:

Quick prep: No baking, no candy thermometer, just melt and mix.
Kid-friendly: The fun of folding in marshmallows and peppermint makes this a great family activity.
Gift-worthy: This fudge looks beautiful wrapped up and stays fresh for weeks.
Flavor-forward: Creamy chocolate meets a refreshing peppermint crunch.

If you’re looking for an easy holiday dessert that checks all the boxes, peppermint flavored marshmallow fudge might just become your new favorite.

Ingredients for Peppermint Flavored Marshmallow Fudge

Understanding why each ingredient is used helps you make the best version of this classic holiday fudge. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Ingredient	Why It’s Used
Semi-sweet chocolate	Provides a deep chocolate base that’s not overly sweet
Sweetened condensed milk	Acts as a binder and sweetener, creating a smooth, creamy texture
Mini marshmallows	Add volume and a soft, pillowy texture for a delightful bite
Crushed peppermint candies	Infuse a cool, minty taste and a festive crunch
Butter	Adds richness and helps everything melt evenly
Peppermint extract	Intensifies the mint flavor and complements the chocolate
Vanilla extract (optional)	Enhances overall flavor complexity and rounds out the sweetness

These pantry staples come together to form a beautifully balanced treat that’s rich, minty, and joyfully festive.

How to Make Peppermint Marshmallow Fudge (Step-by-Step)

Creating this peppermint fudge is as straightforward as it is satisfying. You don’t need special equipment or skills—just a saucepan and a little patience.

Step 1 – Prep Your Pan

Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving extra on the sides to lift the fudge out once it’s set. This makes cleanup easier and ensures clean cuts later.

Step 2 – Melt and Mix

Combine chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and butter in a saucepan. Stir gently over low heat, making sure nothing sticks or burns. You’ll notice the mixture becoming glossy and thick—this is your fudge base coming to life.

Step 3 – Add Flavor and Texture

Remove from heat, then stir in peppermint extract and, if using, vanilla extract. Add the mini marshmallows and crushed peppermint candies, folding gently to avoid breaking them down too much. You want pockets of marshmallow and bursts of peppermint in every bite.

Step 4 – Pour and Chill

Pour the mixture into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle extra peppermint candy on top for decoration. Place the pan in the fridge and chill for 10 minutes to set.

Step 5 – Cut and Serve

Once firm, use the parchment to lift the fudge from the pan and cut into bite-sized squares. Wipe your knife between cuts for clean edges.

Tips for the Best Peppermint Marshmallow Fudge

If you’re aiming for perfection—or simply want to put your own spin on this classic—these tips will help you get there:

Ingredient Substitutions

Use white chocolate chips for a lighter, sweeter version.
Swap crushed peppermint with peppermint bark chunks for a more indulgent variation.
Add crushed cookies like Oreos for extra crunch.

Storage Advice

Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to two weeks.
Freeze extra portions in layers separated by wax paper. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

These small adjustments can help tailor the fudge to your flavor preferences or dietary needs.

Creative Peppermint Fudge Variations

Looking to jazz things up? Here are some twists on the original recipe:

Swirled Fudge: Pour half white and half chocolate fudge into the pan and swirl with a toothpick.
Oreo Peppermint Fudge: Fold in crushed Oreos for extra crunch and visual appeal.
Layered Fudge: Let one layer set before pouring in a second flavored layer—ideal for presentation.

These variations not only taste amazing but also elevate the visual appeal of your holiday treat table.

Peppermint Fudge for Gifting

There’s no better way to share holiday cheer than with homemade fudge wrapped in a bow. Here’s how to turn this dessert into the perfect gift:

Place cut squares into festive tins or jars with parchment dividers.
Wrap each piece in wax paper for a vintage candy-shop look.
Add handwritten tags with warm wishes or ingredients for a personal touch.

This fudge doesn’t just deliver on taste—it’s a beautiful gift from the heart that travels well and stays fresh.

FAQs

Can I use marshmallow fluff instead of mini marshmallows?

Yes, but the texture will be smoother and creamier, lacking the chewy bite that mini marshmallows offer.

How long does peppermint fudge last?

Properly stored in the fridge, peppermint fudge can last for up to two weeks. If frozen, it remains good for up to three months.

Can I make this fudge without peppermint extract?

You can, but you’ll lose some of the signature mint flavor. To compensate, increase the amount of crushed peppermint candy slightly.

Why did my fudge turn grainy?

This usually happens when the mixture is overheated or stirred too little. Always melt the ingredients slowly over low heat and stir constantly for a smooth result.

This peppermint flavored marshmallow fudge isn’t just a recipe—it’s a celebration. It invites you to relive memories, make new ones, and share joy in the form of homemade sweetness. With its ease of preparation, crowd-pleasing flavor, and beautiful presentation, it’s a must-make for the holiday season.

So grab your ingredients, warm up your kitchen, and get ready to spread cheer one square at a time. And if you loved this recipe, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with friends and family or pin it to your holiday dessert board.