If you have a soft spot for that refreshing combo of cool mint and rich chocolate, then you are absolutely going to adore this Mint Chocolate Fudge Recipe. It’s a luscious treat that perfectly balances the smooth, velvety texture of dark chocolate with an invigorating burst of mint flavor, all wrapped up in a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth fudge. Whether you’re prepping something special for the holidays or just craving a delicious homemade sweet snack, this recipe delivers satisfying richness with a fun minty twist that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Mint Chocolate Fudge Recipe comes together with a handful of straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the deep, indulgent flavor of dark chocolate to the creamy sweetness of condensed milk, every element combines to create a fudge that’s perfectly smooth and bursting with minty goodness.
- Dark chocolate chips: Use quality dark chocolate for a rich base and a deeper cocoa flavor in your fudge.
- Sweetened condensed milk: This adds the signature creamy sweetness, helping the fudge set beautifully without graininess.
- Unsalted butter: Butter brings silky texture and a touch of richness that melts on your tongue.
- Pure mint extract: Your secret weapon for that fresh, vibrant mint flavor that defines this recipe.
- Green food coloring (optional): Just a drop gives your fudge a festive minty hue, perfect for sharing or gift-giving.
- Crushed peppermint candies: These add a delightful crunch and extra burst of mint, plus a pretty sprinkle on top.
How to Make Mint Chocolate Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Prep in Place
Before you dive in, gather your tools: a medium saucepan for melting, a spatula for stirring, and an 8×8-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper to help the fudge release easily once set. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
Over low heat, combine your dark chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter in the saucepan. Stir continuously to prevent scorching and to ensure everything melts together into a luscious, smooth blend. Patience here means silky, glossy fudge.
Step 3: Infuse with Mint Flavor
Once the chocolate mixture is perfectly melted and smooth, remove the pan from heat. Stir in the pure mint extract and, if you’re feeling festive, a drop of green food coloring. Mixing these in now captures that refreshing mint essence without losing any intensity.
Step 4: Add Peppermint Candies
Gently fold in most of your crushed peppermint candies, saving some to sprinkle on top later. This step adds fun texture and a cool crunch to each bite, making this mint chocolate fudge recipe extra special.
Step 5: Pour and Smooth
Transfer your minty fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with your spatula. This creates perfect squares when it’s time to slice and makes sure every piece has an even distribution of flavor.
Step 6: Chill Until Firm
Pop the fudge in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set firmly. This cooling time ensures that your Mint Chocolate Fudge Recipe will hold together nicely and deliver that classic creamy chew with each bite.
How to Serve Mint Chocolate Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra crushed peppermint candies on top before serving for some festive flair and extra crunch. You can also add a light dusting of cocoa powder or even swirl in a bit of white chocolate on the surface for a pretty contrast.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs beautifully with a cup of hot coffee or a refreshing glass of milk to balance its sweetness. You might also enjoy serving it alongside some fresh berries for a pop of juicy tartness.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap small squares in festive wax paper or place them in mini paper cups for cookie trays or gift boxes. You can arrange them on decorative platters with some sprigs of fresh mint for a charming presentation that wows at parties or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Mint Chocolate Fudge Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and creamy for up to two weeks, making it easy to enjoy a sweet nibble whenever the craving hits.
Freezing
If you want to keep the fudge longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will maintain its quality for up to three months, perfect for holiday prep or saving for special occasions.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy frozen fudge, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. Avoid microwaving as it can change the texture, but a few minutes at room temperature should soften it nicely for a luscious, creamy bite.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate in this Mint Chocolate Fudge Recipe?
Absolutely! Milk chocolate will create a sweeter, creamier fudge with a lighter cocoa flavor. Just be aware that the overall taste will be less intense compared to dark chocolate, but still delicious.
Is there a substitute for crushed peppermint candies?
If you don’t have peppermint candies on hand, finely chopped candy canes or even peppermint baking chips work great. You can also skip the crunch and just use extra mint extract for flavor.
How strong should the mint extract be?
One teaspoon of pure mint extract typically provides a nice, balanced mint flavor without overpowering the chocolate. Feel free to adjust slightly according to your personal taste preferences.
Can I make this fudge dairy-free?
This recipe relies on butter and sweetened condensed milk for that creamy texture, but you can experiment with dairy-free butter and sweetened condensed coconut milk alternatives. Just note that the texture and taste may vary slightly.
How do I get clean cuts when slicing the fudge?
Make sure the fudge is fully chilled and firm before slicing. Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water, then wiped dry, to make clean, smooth cuts without crumbling.
Final Thoughts
This Mint Chocolate Fudge Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that effortlessly combines the best flavors of rich chocolate and refreshing mint. It’s simple to make, utterly delectable, and just the right treat to brighten any occasion. I cannot recommend enough giving it a try—you might just find a new favorite to share and savor with those you love!
Print
Mint Chocolate Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Mint Chocolate Fudge recipe is a rich and creamy treat combining smooth dark chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and a refreshing mint flavor. Enhanced with crushed peppermint candies for a delightful crunch, this easy-to-make fudge sets in the refrigerator to create perfectly portioned squares, ideal for sharing during holidays or whenever you crave a minty chocolate indulgence.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 2 cups dark chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp pure mint extract
- 1 drop green food coloring (optional)
Topping
- ¼ cup crushed peppermint candies
Instructions
- Prepare tools: Gather a medium saucepan, spatula, and an 8×8-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper to ensure easy removal and cleanup.
- Melt ingredients: Over low heat, combine dark chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter in the saucepan. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully melted without any lumps.
- Add mint flavor and color: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the pure mint extract along with a drop of green food coloring if desired, blending thoroughly to achieve an even minty flavor and color.
- Incorporate peppermint candies: Gently fold in most of the crushed peppermint candies, reserving a small amount to sprinkle on top of the fudge for added texture and decorative effect.
- Pour and spread: Transfer the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with the spatula to create a smooth top layer. Sprinkle the reserved crushed peppermint candies over the surface for garnish.
- Chill to set: Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours or until the fudge is firm enough to cut into squares.
Notes
- Using parchment paper in the baking dish makes removing the fudge easier once set.
- Adjust the amount of peppermint candies based on your desired level of crunch and minty intensity.
- The green food coloring is optional and only for visual effect; it does not affect the flavor.
- For best results, melt the ingredients slowly over low heat to prevent scorching the chocolate.
- Keep fudge refrigerated if not consumed immediately to maintain freshness.
