Craving a treat that’s both indulgent and easy to make? This Peanut Butter Fudge recipe is an enticing invitation to explore a symphony of flavors. Effortlessly combining velvety smooth peanut butter with decadent chocolate, this is the ultimate comfort dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert or a sweet gift for a friend, this fudge is your answer with its delightful mix of creamy and sweet peanut butter.
Growing up, my grandmother always had a hidden stash of her homemade fudge tucked away in the pantry. As kids, we would sneak a piece or two when she wasn’t looking, savoring that rich, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. It wasn’t just a treat; it was a memory encapsulated in each bite. Fast forward to today, I’ve tweaked her old-fashioned recipe to include Peanut Butter, making it a beloved staple in our family’s dessert menu. Every time I make it, I’m transported back to those happy childhood days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Peanut Butter fudge recipe is a true masterpiece for several reasons:
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have all the ingredients sitting in your pantry already.
- No Baking Required: Perfectly suited for warm days when you want something sweet without turning on the oven.
- Versatile and Customizable: Add your own twist with nuts, sea salt, or a drizzle of caramel.
- Great Shelf Life: Enjoy it fresh or store it for a later date. It stays delicious and fresh for weeks.
- Perfect for Sharing: A delightful treat for parties, gatherings, or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients Notes
The ingredient list for this Peanut Butter fudge is simple, yet crucial for achieving that delicious balance of sweet and savory.
- Peanut Butter: Choose a smooth, creamy peanut butter for best results. If you enjoy a bit of texture, opt for chunky peanut butter.
- Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips both work wonderfully—balance according to your sweetness preference.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This gives the fudge its classic sweet, creamy base. Ensure it’s fresh to avoid any off flavors.
- Butter: Adds richness to the fudge. Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt content better.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavors, giving the fudge a subtle aromatic note.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Prepare Your Pan: Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving extra on the sides to lift the fudge easily.
Step 2
Melt the Butter and Chocolate: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and chocolate chips together. Stir continuously to prevent sticking.
Step 3
Mix in Condensed Milk and Peanut Butter: Once melted, stir in the Sweetened Condensed Milk and peanut butter until fully combined and smooth.
Step 4
Add Vanilla and Salt: Remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
Step 5
Set and Chill: Pour the mixture into your prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
Storage Options
To store your peanut butter fudge, first ensure it’s completely set. Wrap the fudge in parchment paper or plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze the fudge by wrapping it tightly and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep up to three months. To serve, allow it to thaw at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
Variations & Substitutions
This fudge is versatile, and you can easily adjust it to fit your needs:
- Nut-Free: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or almond butter.
- Healthier Option: Use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for reduced sugar content.
- Flavor Add-Ins: Swirl in some melted caramel or sprinkle with sea salt before setting for an extra flavor kick.
Serving Suggestions
This peanut butter fudge is ideal for various occasions. Serve it as a sweet conclusion to a family dinner or as a festive treat during the holiday season. It’s also perfect as a birthday party treat or an addition to any dessert platter. Consider pairing it with ice cream or a hot cup of coffee for an indulgent experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter; however, it may slightly alter the texture of the fudge. Natural peanut butter tends to separate more easily, so make sure to stir it well before incorporating it into the fudge mixture. Additionally, natural peanut butter may not be as sweet, which might necessitate a slight increase in sugar or sweetener.
How do I prevent my fudge from being too hard or too soft?
Ensuring the proper balance and measurement of ingredients is crucial for achieving the perfect fudge texture. If your fudge turns out too hard, it might be overcooked, or the mixture might have too much chocolate. Conversely, if it’s too soft, it might need to chill for longer, or there was too much milk. Follow the instructions carefully for best results, and adjust ingredients modestly if needed.
Is it possible to double the recipe?
Absolutely, you can double (or even triple) the recipe to accommodate more guests. Just ensure you use a larger pan, so the fudge has enough space to set evenly. Keep an eye on the melting process when working with more chocolate and butter, as you may need to stir longer to ensure everything blends smoothly.
Peanut Butter Cup Fudge
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips melted
- 0.5 cup peanut butter creamy
- 0.25 cup butter unsalted, melted
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a medium bowl, combine melted chocolate chips, peanut butter, and melted butter. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a lined 8x8 inch baking dish and smooth the top.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
- Cut into squares and serve.
