The Very Best Peanut Butter Fudge
Rich, creamy peanut butter fudge with sweet caramel notes, perfect for satisfying desserts or gift-giving, appealing to peanut butter lovers of all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook canned milk, light brown sugar, white sugar, and oleo together to soft ball stage (234° to 238° F) using a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat, add peanut butter and beat well until smooth.
- Add vanilla when temperature drops.
- Pour into a large, buttered cake pan.
- Allow to cool completely.
- Cut into pieces when cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother fudge, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, consider using crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy. Be patient while cooking to the soft ball stage; a candy thermometer is essential for achieving the right temperature. You can also experiment by adding a pinch of sea salt for a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the fudge into bite-sized pieces and serve as a sweet treat alongside coffee or hot chocolate. It pairs beautifully with Grandma Hostetter'S Pumpkin Pie for a festive dessert table. You can also serve it as a homemade gift during holidays, beautifully wrapped in cellophane or in a decorative tin.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover peanut butter fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, refrigerate it, where it can last up to a month. To enjoy, simply let it come to room temperature before serving, as refrigerating can make it a bit firmer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of The Very Best Peanut Butter Fudge contains roughly 196 calories, with 3g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 5g 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 natural peanut butter instead of regular peanut butter?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but keep in mind it may result in a different texture and flavor. Natural peanut butter tends to be less sweet and creamier, which can alter the consistency of the fudge. Make sure to stir well to combine the oils before measuring.
What should I do if my fudge doesn't set properly?
If your fudge is too soft, it may not have reached the correct temperature during cooking. You can try to reheat the mixture and cook it a bit longer to reach the soft ball stage. If it still doesn't set, consider using it as a topping for ice cream or brownies instead.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients to the fudge?
Absolutely! You can mix in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a swirl of caramel for added flavor. Just be mindful of the total volume of ingredients to maintain the fudge's texture, and consider browsing more American recipes for additional inspiration.
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).