Chunky Peanut Butter Fudge
Rich, creamy peanut butter fudge with a hint of coffee and caramelized sugar, perfect for peanut lovers and indulgent treats, suitable for sharing or gifting.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat in a heavy saucepan the sugar, brown sugar, milk, coffee, and corn syrup.
- Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugars are dissolved.
- Reduce heat to simmer, uncovered, without stirring, until the temperature reaches 238°C or a soft ball forms in cold water.
- Remove from heat.
- Add peanut butter and vanilla.
- Do not mix; wait until the mixture is lukewarm.
- Beat until thick and creamy.
- Quickly pour into a greased 7 x 7-inch pan or 7- or 8-inch round pan, spreading quickly with a spatula.
- When fudge is firm, mark with a sharp knife and cut into squares or break into irregular pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure that the sugars are fully dissolved before boiling. If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute the coffee with espresso or use a non-caffeinated version. Consider adding a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness. For a nutty twist, mix in some chopped nuts alongside the peanut butter. This fudge can also be made vegan by using plant-based milk and a vegan corn syrup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fudge as a delightful treat at gatherings or as an afternoon snack. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it perfect for a cozy dessert experience. Consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a decadent dessert. You could also serve it alongside Miss Willie'S Chocolate Chip Cookies for a sweet platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to two weeks. For reheating, cut a piece and microwave it for a few seconds to soften, but be careful not to overheat as it can become too gooey.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chunky Peanut Butter Fudge contains roughly 93 calories, with 1g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 fudge?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but be aware that it may alter the texture slightly. Natural peanut butter contains less sugar and stabilizers, which could result in a softer fudge. If you prefer a firmer texture, consider using processed peanut butter.
What should I do if my fudge doesn't set?
If your fudge doesn't set, it may not have reached the proper temperature during cooking. You can reheat it carefully, adding a little more sugar and boiling it again until it reaches the soft ball stage. Then, let it cool again before beating and pouring it into the pan.
Can I add other flavors or mix-ins to the fudge?
Absolutely! You can mix in chocolate chips, marshmallows, or even a splash of flavored extracts like almond or coconut for an extra layer of flavor. Just be sure to fold them in gently after adding the peanut butter and before pouring into the pan.
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).