Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe

Sugar: Provides the sweetness and structure for the fudge.

Milk: Adds creaminess and helps dissolve the sugar.

Peanut butter: The star ingredient, giving the fudge its rich, nutty flavor.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of vanilla.

To achieve a smoother texture in your peanut butter fudge, make sure to use a candy thermometer when boiling the sugar and milk mixture. The ideal temperature is around 234°F (112°C). This ensures the sugar is fully dissolved and will result in a creamier consistency. Additionally, opt for a creamy peanut butter rather than a chunky one to avoid any unwanted texture in the final product.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and a slight floral flavor. Use ¾ cup of honey for every 1 cup of sugar, and reduce the liquid in the recipe by ¼ cup.

• sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a rich, caramel-like flavor. Use ¾ cup of maple syrup for every 1 cup of sugar, and reduce the liquid in the recipe by ¼ cup.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in most recipes. Use the same amount as you would milk.

• milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds a subtle coconut flavor and creaminess. Use the same amount as you would milk.

• peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter has a similar texture and a slightly different nutty flavor. Use the same amount as you would peanut butter.

• peanut butter - Substitute with sunflower seed butter: Sunflower seed butter is a great nut-free alternative with a similar consistency. Use the same amount as you would peanut butter.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor. Use half the amount as you would vanilla extract because it is more potent.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with maple extract: Maple extract offers a unique flavor twist. Use the same amount as you would vanilla extract.

• Allow the peanut butter fudge to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This ensures it sets properly and maintains its delightful texture.

• Once cooled, cut the fudge into squares. This makes it easier to grab a piece whenever you crave a sweet treat.

• For short-term storage, place the fudge squares in an airtight container. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store at room temperature for up to a week.

• If you prefer to keep your dessert fresh for a longer period, refrigerate the airtight container. This will extend its shelf life to about two weeks. Just remember to let the fudge come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

• For freezing, wrap each fudge square individually in plastic wrap. This prevents freezer burn and keeps the pieces from sticking together.

• Place the wrapped squares in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date to keep track of freshness.

• When you're ready to enjoy your peanut butter fudge, simply remove the desired number of squares from the freezer. Let them thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

• For a quick treat, you can even enjoy the fudge straight from the freezer. The texture will be firmer, but the flavor remains delectable.

• Always ensure your storage containers are clean and dry to maintain the quality and taste of your dessert.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the peanut butter fudge pieces on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds.
  4. Check the texture; if not warm enough, continue heating in 5-second intervals until desired warmth is achieved.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F).
  2. Place the peanut butter fudge pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Cover the fudge loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  4. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking frequently to ensure it doesn't melt too much.

• Double Boiler Method:

  1. Fill the bottom pot of a double boiler with water and bring it to a simmer.
  2. Place the peanut butter fudge pieces in the top pot.
  3. Stir gently and continuously until the fudge is warmed through.
  4. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the fudge to become too soft.

• Room Temperature Method:

  1. Remove the peanut butter fudge from the refrigerator.
  2. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour.
  3. This method is the gentlest and helps maintain the fudge's original texture.

• Saucepan: Used to combine and heat the sugar and milk mixture until it boils.

• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the sugar and milk mixture constantly to prevent burning.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the sugar, milk, and peanut butter.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the vanilla extract precisely.

• Baking dish: The container where the fudge mixture will be poured and set.

• Parchment paper: Used to line the baking dish, making it easier to remove the fudge once it has set.

• Spatula: Helpful for spreading the fudge mixture evenly in the baking dish.

• Knife: Used to cut the cooled fudge into squares.

• Stove: Provides the heat source for boiling the sugar and milk mixture.

• Cooling rack: Allows the fudge to cool completely before cutting.

Measure ingredients ahead: Measure out the sugar, milk, peanut butter, and vanilla extract before you start cooking to streamline the process.

Use a microwave: To save time, you can heat the milk and sugar mixture in the microwave instead of on the stove. Just make sure to stir frequently.

Line the dish first: Line your baking dish with parchment paper before you start cooking so it's ready to go when the mixture is done.

Preheat the saucepan: Preheat your saucepan on low heat while you measure the ingredients to reduce cooking time.