Dena'S Peanut Butter Fudge
Dena's Peanut Butter Fudge offers a rich, creamy treat combining sweet sugar, buttery richness, and smooth peanut butter, perfect for sharing with friends and family during special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring sugar, butter, and evaporated milk to a boil in a heavy pan.
- Boil for exactly 3 1/2 minutes without scraping the pan sides.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in marshmallow cream and peanut butter until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered 9 x 13 inch pan.
- Refrigerate for 3 or more hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure a smooth fudge, be careful not to stir the mixture while it boils, as this can cause crystallization. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, consider using crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy. You can also add a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness. For a twist, try mixing in chopped nuts or chocolate chips once you incorporate the peanut butter.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the fudge into small squares for an easy treat. It pairs beautifully with the Frozen Fudge Fun Day Sundae for a decadent dessert experience. Consider serving it alongside coffee or a glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness. This fudge also makes for a delightful gift when packaged in decorative boxes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate it, but let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly. For longer storage, you can freeze the fudge, wrapped tightly, for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dena'S Peanut Butter Fudge contains roughly 287 calories, with 3g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% 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 alternative sweeteners instead of sugar?
While traditional sugar is essential for the fudge's texture, you could experiment with sweeteners like erythritol or stevia. However, the taste and consistency may vary significantly, and it may require adjustments in the cooking process. Always check the conversion ratios for the specific sweetener you choose.
Is there a way to make this fudge dairy-free?
Yes, you can make this fudge dairy-free by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan butter. Additionally, using a dairy-free evaporated milk alternative will help maintain the creamy texture while keeping it suitable for a dairy-free diet.
How do I know when the fudge is done boiling?
The fudge should be boiled for exactly 3 1/2 minutes without stirring. A good indication that it's ready is when it reaches a soft ball stage, which you can check by dropping a small amount into a glass of cold water. If it forms a soft ball, it's done; if it dissolves, it needs more time.
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).