In light of the recent tragedy, I’ve become more present and try to notice and appreciate all of my beautiful blessings. Since I’m a new mom, I think it affected me more than if I didn’t have a child. I know that it’s selfish of me to take the tragedy into my own life and make it affect me. I can’t even begin to feel the pain that the parents of the victims are feeling. It’s not fair for me to even compare. I guess all I can do is pray for peace for all of those affected. If anything, it’s a reminder for us all to hug a little tighter and appreciate every single day we have with those we love.
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One week until Christmas! How did that happen? If you’re like me, you’ll be getting things together until the last minute. But, this year, I’m trying really hard to slow down and ‘smell the roses’…well, in this case, ‘smell the peppermint’.
On a lighter note, this new obsession of chocolate and peppermint is amazing. So far we’ve drooled over:
I’m pretty sure out of them all the biscotti was my favorite. Anything for the excuse to eat chocolate and coffee together! 😀 This fudge is up there, too!
Again, the peppermint isn’t over powering, but gives way to a subtle hint of refreshing mint. I think the balance that is created by the bitter chocolate, sweet vanilla and empowering peppermint makes it just right. It couldn’t be easier to whip up too!
So, I say you go make a batch right now and share it with all of your friends and family. 🙂
Happy Holidays!
Peppermint Fudge
adapted from A Spicy Perspective
Ingredients
- 1 (14 ounce) can fat free sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 1/2 cups dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 5 candy canes
How-To
- Prepare an 8″ square pan by covering with non-stick aluminum foil. Set aside.
- Over a double boiler on simmer, heat the the condensed milk and butter together until the butter is melted.
- Add in the chocolate chips, occasionally stirring until melted.
- Mix in the peppermint and vanilla until combined.
- Place the candy canes in a gallon sized plastic bag. Gently crush with a cup or something hard until the candy canes are in bit sized pieces.
- Pour into a strainer to sift out the tiny flakes of peppermint.
- Sprinkle the crushed candy canes (about 1/2 cup) on top of the fudge.
- Place in the fridge to chill and set for at least 3 hours before cutting into squares.
Servings: 16 squares
1. I notice these things right away cause I’m obsessed with all things Target & Giada – i love your measuring cups 🙂 I have the same ones!!
2. Your pictures are gorgeous! I love the pop of red from the peppermint on the fudge!
3. I love how easy fudge is to make, perfect for the holidays especially with that peppermint on top! 🙂 Festive festive!
I’m completely in the mood for fudge! I love the peppermint twist. Yum!
This looks amazing! I don’t think I’ve ever made fudge–this might have to be my first recipe….
I cannot WAIT to make this! And in other news, can you give me photography lessons? Your photos are gorgeous. I try so hard, but I can’t get the food clear and the background hazy, I have the right camera and lens, I just can’t seem to master the right settings to do that. Was frustrated with my candy photos (today’s post).
Aww, thank you! 😀 I’m still learning too, but I’d be happy to share my knowledge! Maybe we could set up a Google Hangout or Skype in the new year!
I absolutely chocolate and peppermint! This is perfect Christmas fudge!
Peppermint fudge will most definitely be on my list of goodies to make this week in addition to strudel, cookies, Salted Maple Pecan Caramel Corn, and of course cheesecakes for my customers. Wishing each of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy and healthy New Year. Remember to hug your loved ones.
oh lord, this sounds so delicious i could only imagine its taste. i love everything abt chocolate and peppermint combo. that is must around this time of the year.
I loved the beginning of your post, its so sad and heart breaking but at the same time we cannot feel the pain and sorrow whole Newton community is going through. its unimaginable! All we can do is pray for the lost soul, and appreciate each and every moment of our life and loved ones.
I’m trying to stop and smell the roses (or peppermint) more this year too and not get caught up in the hustle and bustle! This fudge looks like the perfect thing to make to celebrate the season!
Hey Caroline, if you see some candy canes the next time you go to the store, can you please get me some? I’m totally serious here. I need them for next Christmas! Seeing this fudge and all the other peppermint stuff killed me this year. I was so jealous and in awe of all the pretty goodies. I’ll of course repay you. 🙂
And these pictures are glorious. And obviously the fudge looks great, too. Usually fudge looks dead and boring and dare I say? A bit like smooshed poo. Not here. 😀