Old-Time Peanut Butter Fudge
Old-Time Peanut Butter Fudge offers a rich, creamy texture with the classic flavors of peanut butter and vanilla. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings, it appeals to fudge lovers and those seeking nostalgic homemade treats. Easy to make and ideal for sharing at gatherings or gifting.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix peanut butter, sugar, milk, and salt in a pan and begin to cook over medium heat.
- Cook until the mixture forms a hard, round ball when dropped into a cup of cold water.
- Remove from heat; add vanilla and butter.
- With a large wooden spoon, begin to beat the fudge until it cools and starts to thicken, approximately 300 strokes.
- Pour into a greased (butter) platter or pan.
- When it starts to set up, cut into 1 x 1-inch squares.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect fudge consistency, ensure that the mixture reaches the hard ball stage by testing it in cold water. If you find the fudge too sweet, consider reducing the sugar slightly or using natural peanut butter. For a unique twist, you can add chopped nuts or chocolate chips. If you're short on time, try making No Bake Brown Sugar Cookies instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fudge as a delightful dessert on its own, or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat. It also makes a great addition to holiday gift baskets. For a fun variation, try incorporating it into dessert bars or pairing it with Turtle Shells for a chocolate-peanut butter combo.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover peanut butter fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate it, where it can last for up to three weeks. If you prefer it warm, you can gently reheat individual squares in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Time Peanut Butter Fudge contains roughly 528 calories, with 6g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1862mg per serving (81% 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 crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can definitely substitute crunchy peanut butter for creamy peanut butter in this recipe. It will add a delightful texture and extra flavor. Just keep in mind that the fudge may have a slightly different consistency, but it will still be delicious.
How can I tell when the fudge is done cooking?
The fudge is done when it forms a hard ball when dropped into cold water, which typically occurs at around 240°F. Using a candy thermometer can help ensure accuracy. If you overcook it, the fudge may become too hard, so keep a close eye on it.
Can I add other flavors to the fudge?
Absolutely! You can customize your fudge by adding ingredients like cocoa powder for chocolate-flavored fudge, or experimenting with extracts like almond or maple. Just be mindful of the moisture content if you’re adding liquid flavorings.
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).