Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love creating sweet treats in my kitchen, and this Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge is one of my all-time favorites. It combines rich chocolate with creamy peanut butter, creating a delightful dessert that is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. The best part is how quick and easy it is to make, needing just a handful of ingredients. Whether you're a seasoned baker or someone just starting out, this fudge is a simple yet impressive treat that everyone will love!
When I first made this Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge, I was amazed at how few ingredients were required to create such a rich and indulgent treat. The secret lies in using high-quality chocolate and natural peanut butter to ensure the best flavor. I remember making this for a family gathering and watching everyone devour it, asking for the recipe within minutes!
One tip I’ve learned is to line your pan with parchment paper, making it much easier to lift out the fudge once it’s set. A simple touch like this transforms the whole process, and it makes cutting the pieces so much cleaner. You definitely want to enjoy every delectable bite of this creation!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh peanut butter goodness
- Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
- Quick and easy to prepare without any baking
Understanding the Ingredients
The core ingredients in this Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge play distinct roles that contribute to its irresistible taste and texture. The creamy peanut butter provides a delightful nutty flavor and smoothness, contrasting wonderfully with the dark chocolate's richness. For best results, opt for a high-quality, natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils. This will allow the authentic taste of peanuts to shine through, preventing the fudge from being overly sweet or oily.
Sweetened condensed milk is the secret ingredient that binds everything together and adds an irresistible velvety texture. It provides sweetness without the need for extra sugar while helping the chocolate and peanut butter blend seamlessly. If you’re looking to modify the recipe, you can substitute sweetened condensed milk with evaporated milk and a bit of sugar, but be prepared for slight differences in texture and flavor.
Techniques for Perfect Fudge
Melt the chocolate and sweetened condensed milk over low heat, as this prevents the chocolate from seizing, which can make your fudge grainy. Stir continuously, and look for a glossy, smooth consistency—this is a sign the chocolate has fully melted and is ready for the next step. If you notice the chocolate beginning to clump, you may need to lower the heat further or remove it from the heat momentarily.
When mixing in the peanut butter, add it while the chocolate is still warm. This helps the peanut butter dissolve easily, resulting in a homogenous mixture without any lumps. A silicone spatula works wonders here; it ensures you scrape the sides and bottom of the pan thoroughly, allowing every ingredient to combine nicely. If the fudge appears too thick at this stage, don’t hesitate to return it to low heat briefly to loosen it up.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious fudge:
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!
Instructions
Follow these steps to whip up your fudge:
Melt the Chocolate
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the dark chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
Add Peanut Butter
Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately mix in the creamy peanut butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is well combined.
Set the Fudge
Pour the mixture into a lined 8x8 inch pan, spreading it evenly. Refrigerate for about 2-3 hours or until it’s firm.
Cut and Serve
Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper, and cut it into squares. Enjoy this delectable treat!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Pro Tips
- For an added touch, sprinkle some sea salt over the top before chilling. This enhances the flavor and adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness!
Storing and Freezing
This Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, making it a fantastic make-ahead treat. For longer storage, cut the fudge into squares and layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-friendly container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours to maintain its creamy texture.
If you find yourself with leftover fudge, consider transforming it into toppings for ice cream or cakes. Simply chop it into small pieces and sprinkle over desserts for a delicious chocolate-peanut butter flair. This versatility makes the fudge not just a standalone treat, but also a fun addition to other sweet creations!
Flavor Variations
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding a pinch of sea salt or a dash of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor even further. You can also introduce texture by folding in chopped nuts or crushed pretzels for a sweet-and-salty crunch. Dark chocolate is the star here, but if you prefer a sweeter profile, semi-sweet chocolate chips can work well too, providing a different balance to the fudge.
Another fun variation is to swirl in some caramel or marshmallow fluff on top before refrigerating. This not only adds an appealing visual element but also introduces a delightful flavor complexity that complements the rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter beautifully.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter fudge. The process remains the same.
→ How long does the fudge last?
The fudge can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts or even some marshmallows for extra texture.
→ Is there a vegan version of this fudge?
Yes, you can replace the sweetened condensed milk with coconut cream and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge
I absolutely love creating sweet treats in my kitchen, and this Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge is one of my all-time favorites. It combines rich chocolate with creamy peanut butter, creating a delightful dessert that is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. The best part is how quick and easy it is to make, needing just a handful of ingredients. Whether you're a seasoned baker or someone just starting out, this fudge is a simple yet impressive treat that everyone will love!
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How-To Steps
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the dark chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately mix in the creamy peanut butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is well combined.
Pour the mixture into a lined 8x8 inch pan, spreading it evenly. Refrigerate for about 2-3 hours or until it’s firm.
Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper, and cut it into squares. Enjoy this delectable treat!
Extra Tips
- For an added touch, sprinkle some sea salt over the top before chilling. This enhances the flavor and adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness!
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