If you’re craving a dessert that combines the refreshing zing of peppermint with the luscious richness of chocolate, this Easy Mint Chocolate Fudge is exactly what you need. It’s unbelievably simple to make and delivers a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience packed with those iconic Andes Mints flavors. Whether you’re preparing a sweet treat for the holidays, a party, or just because, this fudge is bound to become one of your new favorites!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these ingredients together is both straightforward and rewarding. Each one plays a special role—bringing creaminess, sweetness, or that unmistakable minty freshness to this delightful fudge.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Provide a smooth, bittersweet base that balances the mint perfectly.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds rich creaminess and sweetness, eliminating the need for extra sugar.
- Unsalted butter: Enhances texture and gives the fudge a silky finish.
- Peppermint extract: Infuses the fudge with a bright, refreshing mint flavor without overpowering.
- Chopped Andes Mints: Offer bursts of creamy mint and chocolate throughout every bite.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and deepens the chocolate flavor.
- Optional toppings (extra Andes Mints or crushed candy canes): For added texture, crunch, and festive flair.
How to Make Easy Mint Chocolate Fudge
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper or foil; this will make removing the fudge a breeze and keep those clean edges you’re aiming for.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
Combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, unsalted butter, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly to prevent burning and ensure everything melts evenly into a luscious, smooth mixture.
Step 3: Add Mint Flavor and Andes Mints
Once the chocolate mixture is fully melted, remove it from heat. Immediately stir in the peppermint extract and the chopped Andes Mints so they meld into the fudge without losing their delightful texture.
Step 4: Pour and Chill
Pour the mixture into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. If you want, top it with extra chopped Andes Mints or crushed candy canes for that extra festive touch. Refrigerate for at least two hours until the fudge is set and firm.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
After chilling, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment or foil edges. Slice into about 25 bite-sized squares and get ready to indulge!
How to Serve Easy Mint Chocolate Fudge
Garnishes
Sprinkling a few crushed candy canes or additional chopped Andes Mints on top adds a wonderful texture contrast and enhances the minty experience. You can even add a light dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of melted white chocolate for a beautiful presentation.
Side Dishes
Serve this fudge alongside a cup of hot coffee, peppermint tea, or even a creamy glass of milk. The warm or cool beverages perfectly complement the rich and minty flavors, offering balance in every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap individual squares in festive wax paper tied with twine for charming gifts, or arrange them on a decorative platter with fresh mint leaves for a stunning holiday dessert table. You might also layer the fudge pieces between parchment sheets in a cellophane bag for a sweet surprise treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The best part about Easy Mint Chocolate Fudge is that it keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Keep it covered tightly in an airtight container to preserve its creamy texture and prevent it from absorbing any flavors from other foods.
Freezing
If you want to make a batch ahead for later, freeze the fudge wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It will hold well for up to three months and thaw quickly when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
Although fudge is typically served chilled, you can gently warm pieces in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer a softer texture. Be cautious not to overheat, or the fudge may lose its shape and become too melty to handle.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely! Semi-sweet chocolate chips work best for balancing the mint, but you can experiment with dark or milk chocolate depending on your preference. Just expect slight changes in the richness and sweetness.
What if I don’t have Andes Mints?
Andes Mints are unique because of their creamy mint center, but chopped peppermint stick candies or mint chocolate chips can be good substitutes if that’s what you have on hand.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this fudge is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no gelatin or animal-derived ingredients. Just make sure your chocolate chips and other products are labeled vegetarian.
Can I make this fudge without a stove?
While the stovetop method is simple, you could also melt everything gently in a microwave-safe bowl in short bursts, stirring in between. Just be careful not to burn the chocolate.
How do I get clean, neat slices?
Use a sharp knife warmed with hot water and wiped dry before slicing. This helps the knife glide through the set fudge smoothly for perfect squares every time.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Mint Chocolate Fudge is truly one of those recipes you’ll revisit again and again. It’s a simple way to impress friends, treat yourself, and celebrate the flavors of mint and chocolate in a delightfully rich, creamy package. Trust me, once you try making this, it’s going to be a staple in your dessert repertoire!
PrintEasy Mint Chocolate Fudge
This Easy Mint Chocolate Fudge is a quick and indulgent treat bursting with refreshing peppermint flavor. Made with semi-sweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and Andes Mints, it requires no thermometer and no baking, making it perfect for a hassle-free dessert.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 25 squares 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- Pinch of salt
Mix-ins
- 1 cup chopped Andes Mints
Optional Toppings
- Extra Andes Mints or crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking and make it easier to remove the fudge later.
- Melt Ingredients: In a saucepan over low heat, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, unsalted butter, and a pinch of salt. Stir constantly to prevent burning and ensure a smooth melt.
- Stir Until Smooth: Continue stirring the mixture gently until all the ingredients have fully melted and the fudge base is smooth and glossy.
- Add Flavor and Mix-ins: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the peppermint extract and the chopped Andes Mints to fold them evenly throughout the fudge.
- Pour and Smooth: Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly and smoothing the top with a spatula for an even finish.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle with additional Andes Mints or crushed candy canes if using for extra texture and festive flair.
- Chill: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for about 2 hours, or until the fudge has set firm.
- Slice and Serve: Once firm, slice the fudge into 25 squares and serve as a delicious mint chocolate treat.
Notes
- Store the fudge in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness.
- Fudge can be frozen for up to 3 months if wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Use peppermint extract rather than mint extract for the best authentic peppermint flavor.