Grinch Peppermint Fudge Recipe

If you’re looking for a festive treat that’s bursting with holiday cheer, you’ve got to try this Grinch Peppermint Fudge Recipe. It’s bright green, delightfully creamy, and has just the right touch of peppermint that makes it feel like a Christmas party in every bite. I absolutely love how this turns out — rich, smooth, and so easy to make that you’ll want to whip it up every holiday season. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep a stash handy for unexpected guests or last-minute gift ideas!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients here come together to create magic—smooth white chocolate, the cooling bite of peppermint, and marshmallow cream that lifts the texture just right. When you pick your ingredients, fresh dairy and good-quality chocolate make a big difference.

• Granulated sugar: This gives the fudge its sweetness and structure—make sure it’s fresh and not clumpy.
• Heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess; I always use cold cream straight from the fridge.
• Unsalted butter: Unsalted lets you control the saltiness, so you can keep the flavor balanced.
• Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the sweet flavors wonderfully.
• White chocolate morsels: The creamy base of the fudge, choose good-quality morsels for best melting.
• Marshmallow cream: This ingredient makes the fudge super smooth and gives it a lovely, fluffy hint.
• Peppermint extract: The star of the show! Use pure peppermint extract to nail that holiday vibe without overpowering.
• Green gel food coloring: A tiny drop goes a long way to get that iconic Grinch green without watering down your fudge.
• Green sugar and red heart sprinkles: Fun garnish that adds a festive sparkle and a little crunch on top.

Variations

I like to keep this recipe classic, but it’s super fun to switch things up depending on your mood or occasion—so go ahead and make it your own! You’ll find these tweaks keep the base recipe exciting year after year.

• Mint-Chocolate Twist: Adding mini chocolate chips before the fudge sets creates a fun texture contrast. My kids adore this version when we swap regular sprinkles for crushed candy canes.
• Nutty Surprise: Stir in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for a little crunch—just be sure to press sprinkles firmly afterwards so they stick.
• Vegan Version: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and dairy-free butter and white chocolate alternatives. It turns out just as creamy (I tested this for a friend!).
• Less Sweet: Reduce the sugar slightly and add a touch more peppermint to balance sweetness—great if you prefer a more refreshing candy.

How to Make Grinch Peppermint Fudge Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Mix Your Sweet Base

Start by lining an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper—this is key for easy removal once your fudge is set. Then, in a large mixing bowl, combine your white chocolate morsels, marshmallow cream, peppermint extract, and that little drop of green gel food coloring. Just set this aside for now; we’ll add the hot stuff next!

Step 2: Make the Perfect Sugar Mixture

Place butter, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Heat over medium-high while stirring frequently. When it reaches a gentle boil, keep it boiling for exactly 4 minutes, stirring constantly—you’ll notice it thickens. This part always gives me a little test: if you miss this timing, the fudge won’t set right, so watch the clock closely!

Step 3: Blend It All Together

Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately pour the hot mixture over your white chocolate blend. Grab your electric mixer and blend for about a minute until everything’s melted and the fudge batter is silky smooth with no lumps. This blending step is where the magic happens—you’ll get that luscious, creamy texture you’re craving.

Step 4: Set the Scene for Your Grinch Fudge

Pour your bright green fudge mixture into the parchment-lined pan. While it’s still warm, sprinkle the green sugar and red heart sprinkles on top, pressing them gently so they stick. Then pop it into the fridge for about 2 hours or overnight to firm up. Patience here really pays off—the longer it chills, the easier it is to cut perfect squares.

Step 5: Cut and Enjoy

Once set, lift your fudge from the pan using the parchment paper and place on a cutting board. Slice into bite-sized pieces, and get ready for that first heavenly bite. I recommend keeping the fudge stored in an airtight container at room temperature and only cutting as you go to keep it fresh and soft.

How to Serve Grinch Peppermint Fudge Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping this fudge with green sanding sugar and red heart sprinkles—makes it look like a little Grinch candy party. Sometimes I add crushed candy canes for extra crunch and festive flair. These garnishes not only make it fun but add a pop of texture against the creamy fudge.

Side Dishes

Pair your Grinch Peppermint Fudge with hot cocoa or a warm cup of coffee; the peppermint and white chocolate notes in the fudge complement these drinks perfectly. I also like to serve it alongside classic sugar cookies for a varied holiday dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday parties, I love arranging these fudge squares on a festive platter, sprinkled with edible glitter or arranged like a Christmas tree shape. Wrapping individual pieces in colorful cellophane bags tied with a ribbon makes perfect homemade gifts that everyone raves about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight or heat. It stays soft and delicious for up to two weeks this way. My trick? Only cut the amount you plan to eat soon—this keeps the bulk fresh and moist longer.

Freezing

I’ve successfully frozen this fudge wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag. When you’re ready, just thaw it in the fridge overnight. It retains its flavor and texture so well—perfect if you want to prep early or make a big batch.

Reheating

You don’t really need to reheat fudge, but if you prefer it slightly softer, pop a piece in the microwave for about 5-10 seconds. Just be careful not to melt it completely; you want it soft, not runny.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Grinch Peppermint Fudge Recipe has quickly become a holiday staple in my kitchen and I’m sure it will in yours too. It’s one of those recipes that’s simple enough for any home baker but yields an impressive, festive treat that you can feel proud to share. I remember the first time I made it — the whole family went crazy, asking for seconds and wanting to pack some for neighbors. So go ahead, grab those ingredients and enjoy making this joyful, minty fudge creation that’s sure to spread smiles and holiday cheer.

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