Satisfy your sweet tooth with the luscious richness of homemade peanut butter fudge. This delightful treat combines the creamy goodness of peanut butter with the sweetness of confectioners’ sugar, creating a decadent confection that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a midday pick-me-up or looking for a delicious dessert to share with friends and family, this simple yet irresistible recipe is sure to hit the spot. Let’s dive into the details and discover how to make this mouthwatering peanut butter fudge at home!
Ingredients:
- 1 ¼ cups creamy peanut butter
- 12 tablespoons butter
- 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Directions:
- Melt Peanut Butter and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and butter. Microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until melted and smooth.
- Mix in Confectioners’ Sugar: Using an electric mixer, beat in the confectioners’ sugar one cup at a time until smooth.
- Add Cream, Vanilla, and Salt: Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt to the mixture. Continue to beat until well combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper or foil, leaving some overhang to easily lift the fudge out later.
- Spread Fudge Mixture: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Refrigerate Until Set: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, or until set.
- Cut into Squares: Once set, lift the fudge from the pan using the overhanging parchment paper or foil and cut it into 1-inch squares.
- Storage: Store the peanut butter fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 11 minutes
- Servings: 49
- Calories: (Calories per serving may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving Tips:
- Chill Before Serving: For the best texture and flavor, allow the peanut butter fudge to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This helps it firm up and enhances its creamy consistency.
- Cut into Bite-Sized Pieces: When ready to serve, cut the chilled fudge into bite-sized squares using a sharp knife. This makes it easier for guests to grab and enjoy.
- Garnish with a Dusting of Powdered Sugar: For an elegant touch, dust the top of the peanut butter fudge with a sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving. This adds a hint of sweetness and a decorative finish.
- Pair with Coffee or Tea: Serve the peanut butter fudge alongside a freshly brewed cup of coffee or tea for a delightful combination of flavors. The rich, creamy fudge pairs beautifully with the warm, comforting beverage.
- Create a Dessert Platter: Arrange the peanut butter fudge squares on a decorative platter alongside other sweet treats like cookies, brownies, or fruit for a visually appealing dessert spread.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover peanut butter fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out. It will keep well for up to two weeks when properly stored.
- Layer with Parchment Paper: If stacking multiple layers of fudge in the container, place parchment paper between each layer to prevent them from sticking together.
- Freezing: Peanut butter fudge can also be frozen for longer storage. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months.
- Thawing: When ready to enjoy frozen peanut butter fudge, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This allows it to gradually come to room temperature without compromising its texture.
- Serve Chilled or at Room Temperature: Peanut butter fudge can be enjoyed straight from the refrigerator for a cool and refreshing treat, or you can let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before serving, depending on your preference.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your homemade peanut butter fudge stays fresh and delicious, whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it as a special treat for yourself.
Variations:
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge: Mix in 1/2 cup of cocoa powder with the confectioners’ sugar for a chocolatey twist on classic peanut butter fudge.
- Chunky Peanut Butter Fudge: Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for added texture and nuttiness.
- Peanut Butter and Jelly Fudge: Swirl in dollops of your favorite fruit jam or jelly into the fudge mixture before refrigerating for a nostalgic PB&J flavor.
- Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Fudge: Drizzle melted caramel sauce over the top of the fudge before chilling for a sweet and salty treat.
- Peanut Butter Cup Fudge: Fold chopped peanut butter cups into the fudge mixture for a decadent candy-inspired variation.
- White Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge: Substitute white chocolate chips for half of the butter and mix into the fudge mixture for a creamy and indulgent twist.
- Coconut Peanut Butter Fudge: Mix in shredded coconut with the fudge mixture for a tropical flavor profile.
- Peanut Butter Pretzel Fudge: Fold crushed pretzels into the fudge mixture for a sweet and salty combination.
- Maple Peanut Butter Fudge: Replace the vanilla extract with maple extract and drizzle maple syrup over the top of the fudge before chilling for a maple-infused treat.
- Spicy Peanut Butter Fudge: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the fudge mixture for a spicy kick.
FAQs :
- Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?
- While you can use natural peanut butter, keep in mind that it may alter the texture and consistency of the fudge.
- Can I omit the heavy cream in the recipe?
- The heavy cream adds richness to the fudge, but you can omit it if necessary. The texture may be slightly different.
- How long does peanut butter fudge last?
- When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, peanut butter fudge can last up to two weeks.
- Can I freeze peanut butter fudge?
- Yes, peanut butter fudge freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months.
- How do I thaw frozen peanut butter fudge?
- Thaw frozen peanut butter fudge in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Can I add nuts to the fudge?
- Yes, you can add chopped nuts such as peanuts, almonds, or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
- Can I make this recipe vegan?
- Yes, you can use dairy-free butter and a plant-based heavy cream substitute to make vegan peanut butter fudge.
- Can I double the recipe?
- Yes, you can double or halve the recipe depending on your needs. Adjust the ingredients accordingly.
- Can I use a different type of sugar?
- While confectioners’ sugar is recommended for its smooth texture, you can experiment with other sweeteners such as granulated sugar or brown sugar.
- Can I add flavor extracts to the fudge?
- Yes, you can enhance the flavor of the fudge by adding extracts such as almond, coconut, or rum for a unique twist. Adjust the amount to taste.
With its creamy texture and irresistible peanut butter flavor, homemade peanut butter fudge is a delightful treat that’s sure to please everyone’s palate. Whether enjoyed as a midday snack or a decadent dessert, this simple recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. Plus, with just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of this delicious fudge whenever the craving strikes. So gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in the creamy goodness of homemade peanut butter fudge!