Peanut-Cherry Fudge
Sweet and creamy peanut-cherry fudge combines rich peanut flavor with tart red cherries, perfect for satisfying chocolate lovers and ideal for holiday treats or gifting.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter an 8-inch square baking pan.
- Combine peanut butter chips and sweetened condensed milk in the top of a double boiler.
- Place over hot water.
- Heat slowly, stirring often, until chips melt and mixture is smooth.
- Remove from hot water.
- Stir in vanilla and chopped candied cherries.
- Spoon mixture into the prepared pan, spreading evenly.
- Mark the top into 36 pieces.
- Trim each piece with a sliver of candied cherry.
- Chill until the fudge is firm.
- Cut into squares and store in a tightly covered container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother fudge, ensure the peanut butter chips are completely melted before adding the vanilla and cherries. If you can't find peanut butter flavored baking chips, regular peanut butter chips can be used instead, but the flavor may be less intense. You can also try adding a pinch of sea salt to enhance the sweet and salty contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the fudge into small squares and serve as a delightful dessert or snack. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect treat for afternoon gatherings. For an extra touch, consider drizzling melted chocolate on top or serving alongside a slice of Cinnamon Nut Loaf to enhance the flavor experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and firm. It can last up to two weeks when properly stored. If you prefer serving it warm, allow it to come to room temperature before enjoying, or microwave individual squares for a few seconds to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut-Cherry Fudge contains roughly 92 calories, with 3g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 6g fat.
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 dark chocolate chips instead of peanut butter chips?
While you can use dark chocolate chips for a different flavor profile, the fudge will not have the same peanut buttery taste. If you choose to substitute, consider adding a tablespoon of peanut butter to maintain some of the original flavor.
Is it necessary to chill the fudge?
Yes, chilling the fudge is crucial as it helps it set properly, making it easier to cut into squares. If you skip this step, the fudge may be too soft and difficult to handle, resulting in a mess instead of neat pieces.
Can I add nuts or other ingredients to the fudge?
Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can provide a nice crunch and additional flavor. Just make sure to adjust the quantity of cherries accordingly so that the fudge maintains its 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).