Old-Fashion Peanut Butter Fudge
Rich, creamy peanut butter fudge with cocoa and pecans offers a classic, indulgent treat perfect for sharing at holidays or special occasions. Sweet, nutty, and satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cocoa, sugar, salt, and whole milk together in a saucepan.
- Cook the mixture to soft ball stage or until a soft ball forms in 1/2 cup water, approximately 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and add the butter, peanut butter, and pecans, mixing well.
- Pour the mixture onto a buttered platter.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure your fudge sets perfectly, use a candy thermometer to check that the mixture reaches the soft ball stage at 234°F (112°C). If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. For a twist, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract when mixing in the peanut butter for added depth of flavor. Remember to stir continuously while cooking to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the peanut butter fudge into small squares and serve it as a sweet treat for gatherings or as a snack with coffee. It pairs beautifully with a glass of cold milk or can be enjoyed alongside dessert options like Luau Brownies. For a festive touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top before serving to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to two weeks. If you prefer a softer texture, let it come to room temperature before serving. Avoid freezing, as it can alter the fudge's consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Fashion Peanut Butter Fudge contains roughly 533 calories, with 15g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), protein (30% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 672mg per serving (29% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but be aware that it may alter the texture slightly. Natural peanut butter tends to be more oily, so you may need to adjust the amount of butter used. Stir well to ensure a smooth consistency when mixing.
What can I do if my fudge doesn't set properly?
If your fudge doesn't set, it may not have cooked long enough. To salvage it, reheat the fudge gently in a saucepan, bringing it back to the soft ball stage, then pour it back into a buttered platter to set again. Make sure to keep an eye on the temperature.
Can I add other flavors or mix-ins to the fudge?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors such as mint extract, or add mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even crushed cookies. Just be mindful of the total volume to maintain the fudge's texture.
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).