Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge

If you’ve been craving something cozy, cuddly, and chocolatey enough to melt away the stress of a long winter day, this Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge might just become your new kitchen bestie. It’s rich, creamy, festive, and—best of all—simple enough to whip up even when life feels like a juggling act (looking at you, busy moms, multitasking professionals, and anyone who forgot they volunteered to bring dessert to the office party).

As someone who grew up believing that chocolate solves most emotional challenges, trust me—this treat brings that warm-hug feeling you get from your favorite mug of hot cocoa, but in fudge form. Let’s just say… it’s dangerous in the most delightful way.

Whether you’re prepping for Christmas, craving a little peppermint joy, or looking for a sweet giftable recipe, this Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge is here to deliver all the holiday magic without the holiday chaos.

Why You’ll Love This Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge

Let’s be honest—sometimes dessert-making feels like a whole event. But this fudge? It’s the opposite of complicated. Here’s why it’ll become a go-to recipe in your home:

• It’s unbelievably easy. No fancy tools, no candy thermometer, no stress.
• It tastes like a mug of cozy winter happiness. Think hot chocolate meets peppermint bark.
• It’s crowd-pleasing and gift-ready. Perfect for neighbors, teachers, party dessert tables, or late-night “just one more piece” moments.
• It uses simple pantry staples. Nothing out of reach, and everything delicious.

Plus, whenever I make this during the holidays, my kitchen smells like the North Pole (in the best possible way). My kids even call this “Santa’s favorite fudge”—and honestly, I’d believe it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (divided)
• 1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
• 4 packets hot chocolate mix (about 1/2 cup)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 4 cups mini marshmallows (divided)
• Peppermint candy canes or crushed peppermints for garnish (about 1/2 cup)

How to Make Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge

Here’s where the magic happens! Don’t worry—the steps are simple, clear, and busy-life approved.

1. Prep Your Pan

Line an 8×8-inch pan with foil or parchment, then give it a quick spray with cooking oil. This makes lifting the fudge out later so much easier—because wrestling with dessert is never the goal.

2. Start Melting the Chocolate

In a double boiler, add:

• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• All 1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips
• Butter
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Hot chocolate mix

Stir over medium heat. The mixture will get silky smooth and the smell alone will tempt you to grab a spoon. (Stay strong… or don’t. I won’t judge.)

3. Stir in Marshmallows

Add 2 cups of marshmallows and stir for about a minute. They’ll soften but won’t fully melt—creating little pockets of gooey joy.

4. Add Vanilla

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla. This rounds out the chocolate flavor and makes everything taste extra cozy.

5. Transfer to the Pan

Spread the fudge mixture into your prepared pan. It will be thick—like winter coat kind of thick.

6. Add More Marshmallows

Press the remaining 2 cups of marshmallows on top. This gives the fudge that classic hot chocolate vibe.

7. Chill

Refrigerate the pan for 4 hours. If patience isn’t your thing, I recommend distracting yourself by binge-watching a holiday baking show.

8. Slice into Squares

Once firm, lift the fudge out and cut it into cute bite-sized squares—or giant squares if it’s been one of those weeks.

9. Add the Final Drizzle

Melt the remaining 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate in the microwave in 30-second bursts. Drizzle over the fudge and sprinkle crushed peppermint on top.
Let it cool completely so the drizzle sets.

And just like that, dessert is done!

Tips for the Best Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge

Here are a few of my favorite tricks to make this fudge even more amazing:

• Use fresh marshmallows. Old ones get sticky and stiff—kind of like my joints on cold mornings.
• Don’t skip the chill time. I know, waiting is hard. But it helps the fudge firm up perfectly.
• Crush peppermint gently. You want small bits, not peppermint dust. A zip-top bag + rolling pin works great.
• Want extra zing? Add 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract to the chocolate mixture.
• Too soft? Pop the cut squares in the freezer for 10 minutes before serving.

A Little Story From My Kitchen

The first time I made this Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge, it wasn’t for a party—it was for a cozy movie night at home. My kids kept sneaking into the kitchen “just to check on it,” which is code for trying to steal marshmallows. By the time the fudge was finally ready, everyone gathered around like we were unveiling a masterpiece.

It became an instant family favorite, and now it’s one of the recipes my readers make the most during the holiday season. There’s just something about chocolate, marshmallows, and peppermint that brings people together—even the picky eaters.

FAQs About Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge

Bring the Magic Home

There you have it—your new favorite holiday treat, wrapped up in chocolate, peppermint, and pure comfort. This Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge is more than just dessert; it’s the kind of recipe that warms your kitchen, your heart, and anyone lucky enough to get a homemade piece.

Whether you’re gifting it to friends, taking it to a potluck, or enjoying it in fuzzy socks with a Christmas movie, this fudge brings the cozy-factor in every bite.

If you make it, come back and tell me how it turned out—I love hearing how you bring a little Chicken Magic into your homes. Happy cooking, friends!

More Cozy Holiday Treats You’ll Love

If this Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fudge brought a little extra joy to your kitchen, wait until you try these other festive favorites! They pair beautifully with winter movie nights, holiday gatherings, or those “I deserve something sweet” evenings we all know too well. Here are a few hand-picked treats and sips your taste buds will thank you for:

• Warm up with a cup of Christmas Chai Latte — the cozy spices make it the perfect drink to enjoy alongside your fudge.
• Keep the chocolate bliss going with Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies, a melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s just as easy and fun to make.
• If you’re dreaming of even more holiday decadence, the Hot Chocolate Cheesecake delivers rich, creamy magic in every bite.
• And for something festive, crunchy, and totally giftable, try these Christmas Pretzel Rods — they’re a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.

Enjoy exploring these delicious ideas, and may your holidays be filled with sweetness, warmth, and plenty of kitchen magic!

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