Elsie'S Peanut Butter Fudge
A rich, creamy peanut butter fudge with optional chocolate flavor, perfect for sharing at holidays or as a sweet treat for peanut butter lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a pan, then add milk, Karo syrup, and sugar.
- Cook on medium heat, stirring constantly, until soft balls form in cold water (about 5 minutes after it starts to boil).
- Remove from heat and stir in marshmallow creme, peanut butter, and vanilla. Mix quickly and thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered 9 x 12 inch pan and let cool.
- For chocolate fudge, add 1 cup cocoa to the mixture before pouring into the pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the margarine is fully melted before adding the other ingredients. If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute half of the peanut butter with Nutella or a chocolate spread. Stir quickly after adding the marshmallow creme to prevent it from hardening. For a fun twist, consider adding chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the fudge into small squares and serve as a rich dessert or snack. It pairs beautifully with a glass of cold milk or can be enjoyed alongside cookies like Honey Loep Cookies for a delightful treat platter. This fudge also makes a great gift when packaged in decorative boxes for holidays or special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate it, where it can last up to two weeks. To enjoy it cold, simply cut into squares and serve. If it gets too hard, microwave a piece for a few seconds to soften it slightly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Elsie'S Peanut Butter Fudge contains roughly 977 calories, with 20g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (97% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (55% of the Daily Value), and protein (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 647mg per serving (28% 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 a different type of nut butter?
Yes, you can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the nut butter is smooth to maintain the creamy texture of the fudge. Keep in mind that using flavored nut butters may slightly alter the overall taste.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this fudge vegan, substitute margarine with a plant-based butter or coconut oil. Use a non-dairy milk, such as almond or oat milk, and ensure that the marshmallow creme is vegan-friendly. Additionally, check that your peanut butter is free from any animal products.
What can I do if my fudge doesn't set properly?
If your fudge is too soft and doesn't set, it may be due to undercooking the mixture. You can reheat it gently in a pan, allowing it to reach a soft ball stage again, and then pour it back into the pan to set. Alternatively, you can try refrigerating it to help it firm up.
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).