Best Ever Peanut Butter Fudge
Creamy, rich peanut butter fudge combines sweet, nutty flavors with smooth marshmallow cream, perfect for satisfying sweet tooth cravings or sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar and evaporated milk.
- Bring to a full boil over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it forms a ball in cold water.
- Remove from heat.
- Add peanut butter, stirring until melted.
- Add marshmallow cream.
- Beat until well blended.
- Add nuts if you wish.
- Spread in a buttered 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- Cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, ensure your sugar and evaporated milk are well combined before boiling. If you prefer a smoother fudge, use creamy peanut butter instead of crunchy. You can substitute the nuts with seeds for a nut-free version, or add a pinch of sea salt for a flavor boost. This recipe is a classic in American recipes, perfect for holiday gifting.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the fudge into bite-sized pieces and serve it as a delightful snack or dessert. It pairs beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate, making it perfect for cozy gatherings. For a fun twist, try serving it alongside Homemade Chocolate Chess Pie for a dessert spread that guests will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, refrigerate it, which can extend its freshness to two weeks. If you prefer a softer texture, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. Just avoid freezing, as it can alter the consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Ever Peanut Butter Fudge contains roughly 223 calories, with 5g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but it may not melt as smoothly as regular peanut butter. If using natural, ensure it's well-stirred and incorporate it after boiling the sugar mixture to achieve the desired consistency.
What can I do if my fudge doesn't set properly?
If your fudge hasn't set, it might need more cooking time. You can return it to the heat and boil for a few more minutes. Alternatively, you can re-melt it and add more sugar to help it firm up. Just be careful not to overcook it.
Can I add flavors or mix-ins to the fudge?
Absolutely! You can add vanilla extract or a splash of almond extract for extra flavor. Mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even crushed cookies can enhance the fudge. Just be sure to fold them in after blending the main ingredients.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).