Peanut Butter Fudge Squares
Rich, creamy peanut butter fudge squares with crunchy pecans, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and sharing at parties or as a homemade treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the Karo syrup, peanut butter, vanilla, soft butter, and salt well.
- Gradually add sugar to the mixture, making it very stiff.
- Knead the mixture well, mixing in the chopped pecans if using.
- Press the mixture into a buttered 8-inch pan.
- Chill until the fudge is firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using smooth peanut butter instead of crunchy. If you're out of Karo syrup, honey or maple syrup can work as substitutes, but they may alter the flavor slightly. Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier blending. If you prefer a sweeter fudge, adjust the sugar to taste, but keep in mind that it should remain stiff enough to hold its shape.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the fudge into small squares for a delightful treat during gatherings or as an after-school snack. These squares pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee. They also make an excellent topping for desserts like ice cream or yogurt, making them a versatile addition to your dessert table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fudge squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them, where they can last for up to two weeks. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply microwave a square for a few seconds, just enough to soften it without melting.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Butter Fudge Squares contains roughly 696 calories, with 9g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 585mg per serving (25% 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 keep in mind that it may be a bit more runny. To compensate, you might need to adjust the amount of soft butter or refrigerate the mixture longer to ensure it firms up properly.
Is it necessary to chill the fudge?
Chilling the fudge is essential for achieving the right texture. If you skip this step, the fudge may remain too soft and not hold its shape when cut. Ideally, chill for at least an hour or until firm to the touch.
Can I add other ingredients to the fudge?
Absolutely! You can mix in chocolate chips, dried fruits, or even swap pecans for other nuts like walnuts or almonds. Just be cautious not to overload the mixture, as it needs to stay stiff enough to form squares.
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).