Peppermint Fudge

 BOTTOM LAYER:

1 1/4 teaspoons butter (no substitutes), softened

2 ounces cream cheese, softened

2 cups confectioners’ sugar

3 tablespoons baking cocoa

1 tsp milk 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

1/4 cup chopped nuts  

PEPPERMINT LAYER:

2 ounces cream cheese, softened

2 cups confectioners’ sugar

1 1/2 teaspoons milk

1/2 tsp peppermint extract

1/4 cup crushed peppermint candy  

Line the bottom and sides of an 8-in. x 4-in. x 2-in. loaf pan with foil. Grease foil with 1-1/2 teaspoons butter; set aside.In a small mixing bowl, beat cream cheese. Gradually beat in confectioners’ sugar, cocoa, milk and vanilla. Stir in nuts. Spread into prepared pan. Chill for 1 hour or until firm.  

For peppermint layer, beat cream cheese in a small mixing bowl. Gradually beat in confectioners’ sugar, milk and extract.Stir in peppermint candy. Spread evenly over chocolate layer. Chill for 1 hour or until firm. Using foil, lift fudge from pan. Gently peel off foil. Cut into squares.

I always have scads of candy canes left over from the tree.  This recipe makes a colorful and delicious treat for the holiday!