Fudge is a rich, creamy, and absolutely delicious dessert that has been a favorite in households for generations. This simple treat combines the nutty goodness of peanut butter with the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture of fudge, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday party, gifting it to friends, or just indulging yourself, this dessert is sure to please. Plus, it’s easy to make and requires only a handful of ingredients, making it accessible to both novice and experienced bakers alike. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create the perfect batch, along with tips, variations, and answers to common questions.
Can I make this fudge without a candy thermometer?
Yes, this recipe is easy to follow and doesn’t require a candy thermometer. The mixture of sugar, milk, and peanut butter comes together beautifully without the need for precise temperature control, making it ideal for beginners.
What type of peanut butter is best to use?
For the smoothest texture, creamy peanut butter works best. If you enjoy more texture, feel free to use crunchy peanut butter for a different experience. Natural varieties can be used, but the oil separation might make the fudge a bit grainy, so ensure it’s well-stirred.
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup milk (whole milk for creaminess)
- 1 ⅓ cups creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: A pinch of sea salt for flavor contrast
Directions
1. Prepare the Pan
Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly with butter. This step ensures easy removal of the fudge once it sets.
2. Heat Sugar and Milk
Combine the sugar and milk in a medium saucepan. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Once dissolved, bring the mixture to a gentle boil and allow it to cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent burning. This step helps to give the final dessert its smooth texture.
3. Add Peanut Butter
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the peanut butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The peanut butter will add richness and a nutty flavor to the mixture.
4. Incorporate Vanilla
Once the peanut butter has fully blended, add the vanilla extract and mix well. The vanilla adds depth to the flavor. You can also add a pinch of sea salt if you enjoy a sweet-salty combination.
5. Pour and Set
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Let it cool at room temperature for about two hours, or until firm. For quicker setting, you can refrigerate it.
6. Cut and Serve
Once fully set, use a sharp knife to cut the fudge into small squares. Enjoy immediately or store for later.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use Quality Peanut Butter: For the best flavor, use a high-quality peanut butter that doesn’t separate.
- Stir Constantly: Stirring prevents the mixture from sticking to the pan or burning.
- Don’t Rush the Cooling Process: Let the fudge cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, firm pieces.
- Add Mix-Ins: For a twist, mix in chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or swirl in some Nutella before the mixture sets.
Nutrition Facts
Here’s the nutritional breakdown for each serving (assuming the recipe makes 16 squares):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 5mg |
| Sodium | 100mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 15g |
| Protein | 3g |
Recipe Variations
There are many ways to customize this recipe. Here are a few creative variations:
1. Chocolate Swirl Fudge
Melt ½ cup of chocolate chips and swirl it into the mixture before pouring it into the pan for a beautiful and delicious chocolate-peanut butter combination.
2. Crunchy Version
Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for added texture.
3. Marshmallow Fudge
Fold in 1 cup of mini marshmallows before the mixture sets for a chewy texture.
4. Salted Version
Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top of the fudge before it cools for a sweet and salty flavor contrast.
5. Nutty Fudge
Mix in ½ cup of chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a sugar substitute?
Yes, you can make a low-sugar version by substituting sugar with alternatives like stevia or monk fruit. Adjust the amount based on the sweetness of the substitute.
How long does it last?
The fudge can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week, in the refrigerator for two weeks, or frozen for up to three months.
Can I substitute other nut butters?
Yes, almond, cashew, or other nut butters can be used in place of peanut butter for a different flavor.
Internal Linking Opportunities
Here are some internal links to related recipes:
- Banana Bread Recipe – Try this banana bread recipe with peanut butter for a delicious variation.
- Chocolate Fondue Recipe – Chocolate lovers will enjoy this indulgent fondue recipe.
- Frosted Brownies – For a richer dessert, try these frosted fudgy brownies.
Conclusion:
This fudge recipe is a simple, yet decadent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal ingredients and an easy preparation process, it’s a quick dessert to make whenever you’re craving something sweet. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this dessert is sure to impress!