Marcia'S Peanut Butter Fudge(Old Fashioned)
Creamy, rich peanut butter fudge with crunchy pecans, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and sharing at gatherings or as a homemade treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, Karo syrup, canned milk, and salt in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil and cook slowly until it forms a soft ball, stirring constantly.
- Remove from stove and add peanut butter, vanilla, margarine, and chopped pecans.
- Beat just until peanut butter is melted and ingredients are combined.
- Pour into an 8-inch buttered pan lined with wax paper.
- Let cool completely.
- Cut into small pieces and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute half of the sugar with brown sugar. Keep an eye on the boiling mixture to prevent burning; using a candy thermometer can help achieve the soft ball stage accurately. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This peanut butter fudge pairs beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. For a delightful dessert spread, serve it alongside Chewy Noels or other festive treats. Cut into small squares for easy serving at gatherings, and consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To extend its shelf life, you can refrigerate it for two weeks. If you're looking to reheat, place a piece in the microwave for a few seconds, but be careful not to overheat, as it can alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marcia'S Peanut Butter Fudge(Old Fashioned) contains roughly 133 calories, with 4g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 520mg per serving (23% 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 processed?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but be aware that it may result in a slightly different texture. Natural peanut butter often has oil separation, so stir it well before measuring. The fudge may also be a bit softer due to the lack of stabilizers in processed versions.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you don't have pecans on hand, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor. For a nut-free version, try adding mini chocolate chips or dried fruit to the mixture for added texture and sweetness.
How do I know when the fudge is ready?
The fudge is ready when it reaches the soft ball stage, typically around 234°F to 240°F (112°C to 116°C) on a candy thermometer. Alternatively, you can test by dropping a small amount of the mixture into cold water; if it forms a soft ball that holds its shape, it's ready to be removed from the heat.
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).