Lena'S Peanut Butter Fudge
Lena's Peanut Butter Fudge is a rich, creamy treat with classic peanut butter flavor, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, milk, and margarine in a saucepan and boil until a soft ball forms in ice water.
- Remove from heat and add peanut butter.
- Beat until the mixture is thick and creamy.
- Pour into a greased 9 x 13-inch dish or pan.
- Cool for 1 hour, then cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother fudge, ensure the sugar completely dissolves in the milk before boiling. If you want a richer flavor, try using a natural peanut butter instead of processed. You can substitute margarine with butter for a creamier texture. If you prefer a crunch, consider adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top after pouring the fudge into the dish. This recipe is perfect for those who love American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the fudge into small squares for easy serving and pair it with a glass of cold milk for a classic treat. It also makes a delightful addition to dessert platters for parties. For a festive touch, serve alongside slices of Ida's Pound Cake or as a sweet surprise with coffee after a meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a hot climate, refrigerate it to prevent melting. To reheat, use the microwave in short bursts at low power, stirring between intervals until softened. Avoid overheating to maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lena'S Peanut Butter Fudge contains roughly 566 calories, with 4g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 488mg per serving (21% 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 instead of regular peanut butter?
Yes, natural peanut butter works well in this recipe, but it may alter the texture slightly. Natural peanut butter contains less sugar and stabilizers, so it might make the fudge a bit softer. Just ensure it's well mixed before adding it to the hot mixture.
What should I do if my fudge doesn't set properly?
If your fudge doesn't set, it may not have reached the right temperature. You can try reheating the mixture until it reaches the soft ball stage again, then pour it back into the dish. If it's still too soft, you can mix in a bit more sugar and try setting it in the fridge.
How can I make this fudge chocolate-flavored?
To make chocolate peanut butter fudge, add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the mixture when you add the peanut butter. You may need to adjust the sugar slightly to balance the bitterness of the cocoa. This variation adds a delicious twist to the traditional recipe.
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).