Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love making Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge because it’s one of those recipes that brings everyone together. The combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter is not only indulgent but also incredibly simple to prepare. In just a few steps, I can create a sweet treat that’s perfect for satisfying my cravings or sharing with friends during gatherings. Plus, who can resist the luscious texture that melts in your mouth? It’s a guaranteed hit that never fails to impress.
While perfecting my Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge, I found that using quality ingredients made all the difference. The chocolate should be rich, and I recommend opting for semi-sweet chocolate chips that blend seamlessly with the creamy peanut butter. This way, you achieve that perfect balance of flavors that will delight your taste buds!
Another key tip I learned is to let the fudge cool completely before cutting into it. Not only does this prevent it from crumbling, but it also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Trust me, the wait will be worth it when you take that first bite!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy peanut butter
- Simple to make with just a few ingredients
- Perfect for sharing during celebrations or cozy nights in
Mastering the Fudge Technique
When melting the chocolate and butter, it's crucial to keep the heat low to prevent burning. Stir constantly to ensure an even melt, which should take about 5-7 minutes. The mixture should be smooth and glossy before adding the peanut butter. If you notice that the chocolate seizes, try adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil to help restore its texture.
For the best texture, use creamy peanut butter rather than crunchy, as the latter can create an uneven fudge consistency. However, if you’re looking for a bit of texture, feel free to incorporate crushed peanuts or other additions once the fudge is combined. This will give each piece a delightful crunch without compromising the overall smoothness.
Storing and Serving Your Fudge
To store your Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container, where it can last for up to two weeks in the refrigerator. If you want to extend its life, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just be sure to cut it into squares before freezing so you can enjoy a piece at a time without having to thaw the entire batch.
Serving the fudge is delightful on its own, but there are several creative ways to elevate it. Try drizzling with melted chocolate or sprinkling with sea salt for a gourmet touch. You can also serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or crushed graham crackers for an added texture contrast that makes for a memorable dessert experience.
Ingredients
Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!
Instructions
Melt the Chocolate and Butter
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and chocolate chips together. Stir constantly until they are fully combined and smooth.
Add Peanut Butter and Vanilla
Remove from heat and stir in the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract until the mixture is well blended.
Incorporate Powdered Sugar
Gradually add the powdered sugar, stirring until it’s fully integrated and the fudge is thick and glossy.
Pour and Chill
Pour the fudge mixture into a lined 8x8 inch baking dish, spreading evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
Cut and Serve
Once set, cut the fudge into squares and enjoy your delicious Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, consider adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before chilling.
Ingredient Insights
The choice of semi-sweet chocolate chips is crucial for achieving the right balance of sweetness and richness. If you prefer a darker flavor, you can substitute with dark chocolate chips, but keep in mind that this will result in a slightly less sweet fudge, which may be appealing for chocolate lovers.
Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe. If you only have salted butter, that’s fine; just reduce any additional salt in the mixture to maintain the flavor balance. Also, feel free to experiment with flavored extracts, like almond or hazelnut, in place of vanilla to add a unique twist to your fudge.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your fudge turns out too soft after chilling, it may not have been mixed enough after adding the powdered sugar. Next time, whisk thoroughly until the mixture is thick and glossy, which ensures proper incorporation. Additionally, check that your environment isn't too warm during the mixing process, as this can affect the fudge's ability to set.
In case you find your fudge too thick to pour into the pan, try briefly warming it back over low heat while stirring to loosen it up. If you’re still struggling, you can fold in a small amount of heavy cream, which can help achieve the desired consistency and ensure a smoother finish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will give your fudge a delightful texture.
→ How should I store the fudge?
Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
→ Can I freeze the fudge?
Yes, you can freeze the fudge for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly.
→ What can I substitute for powdered sugar?
You can use finely ground granulated sugar or make your own powdered sugar by blending granulated sugar in a blender until fine.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge
I absolutely love making Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge because it’s one of those recipes that brings everyone together. The combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter is not only indulgent but also incredibly simple to prepare. In just a few steps, I can create a sweet treat that’s perfect for satisfying my cravings or sharing with friends during gatherings. Plus, who can resist the luscious texture that melts in your mouth? It’s a guaranteed hit that never fails to impress.
What You'll Need
Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
How-To Steps
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and chocolate chips together. Stir constantly until they are fully combined and smooth.
Remove from heat and stir in the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract until the mixture is well blended.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, stirring until it’s fully integrated and the fudge is thick and glossy.
Pour the fudge mixture into a lined 8x8 inch baking dish, spreading evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
Once set, cut the fudge into squares and enjoy your delicious Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge!
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, consider adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before chilling.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g