Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe

Sugar: Provides the sweetness and structure for the fudge.

Milk: Helps dissolve the sugar and creates a creamy texture.

Vanilla extract: Adds a rich, aromatic flavor to the fudge.

Peanut butter: The star ingredient that gives the fudge its distinctive taste and creamy consistency.

Butter: Adds richness and helps to create a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

When making peanut butter fudge, it's crucial to monitor the boiling stage closely. The sugar and milk mixture should reach a full, rolling boil to ensure the sugar dissolves completely. Stir constantly to prevent scorching. Once you remove the mixture from the heat, work quickly to incorporate the peanut butter, butter, and vanilla extract. This ensures a smooth, creamy texture. Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish immediately, as it will start to set quickly.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and a slightly different flavor profile. Use 1 cup of honey for every 1 cup of sugar, but reduce the other liquids in the recipe by ¼ cup.

• sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a rich, unique flavor. Use ¾ cup of maple syrup for every 1 cup of sugar, and reduce the other liquids in the recipe by 3 tablespoons.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in most recipes. Use the same amount as you would for regular milk.

• milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds a subtle coconut flavor and is also dairy-free. Use the same amount as you would for regular milk.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor. Use half the amount of almond extract as you would vanilla extract because it is more potent.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with maple extract: Maple extract gives a unique twist to the flavor profile. Use the same amount as you would for vanilla extract.

• peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter has a similar texture and a slightly different nutty flavor. Use the same amount as you would for peanut butter.

• peanut butter - Substitute with sunflower seed butter: Sunflower seed butter is a great nut-free alternative with a similar consistency. Use the same amount as you would for peanut butter.

• butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and can add a slight coconut flavor. Use the same amount as you would for butter.

• butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine is a good dairy-free alternative with a similar texture and fat content. Use the same amount as you would for butter.

• Allow the peanut butter fudge to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This ensures that the fudge sets properly and maintains its texture.
• Once cooled, cut the fudge into squares or desired shapes. Use a sharp knife to make clean cuts.
• For short-term storage, place the fudge pieces in an airtight container. Layer the pieces with parchment paper or wax paper in between to prevent them from sticking together.
• Store the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The fudge can stay fresh at room temperature for up to one week.
• For longer storage, consider refrigerating the fudge. Place the pieces in an airtight container, again layering with parchment or wax paper. The fudge can last in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
• If you wish to freeze the peanut butter fudge, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to prevent freezer burn and maintains the fudge's flavor and texture.
• Place the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Label the container with the date to keep track of storage time.
• The fudge can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, allow the fudge to thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
• Avoid refreezing the fudge once it has been thawed, as this can affect its texture and taste.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the peanut butter fudge squares on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
  3. Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds.
  4. Check the texture; if needed, heat for an additional 5-10 seconds.
  5. Let it cool slightly before enjoying.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
  2. Place the peanut butter fudge squares in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
  4. Heat for about 10 minutes, checking halfway through.
  5. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

• Double Boiler Method:

  1. Fill the bottom of a double boiler with water and bring it to a simmer.
  2. Place the peanut butter fudge squares in the top part of the double boiler.
  3. Stir gently until the fudge is warm and slightly softened.
  4. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.

• Room Temperature Method:

  1. Remove the peanut butter fudge from the refrigerator.
  2. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour.
  3. Enjoy the fudge as it reaches a softer, more palatable texture.

• Saucepan: Use this to combine the sugar and milk, and bring them to a boil.

• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the mixture constantly while it boils.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the sugar, milk, peanut butter, and butter.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the vanilla extract.

• Baking dish: Grease this to pour the fudge mixture into and let it cool.

• Spatula: Useful for scraping the mixture out of the saucepan and into the baking dish.

• Greaseproof paper: Optional, but can be used to line the baking dish for easier removal of the fudge.

• Knife: Needed to cut the cooled fudge into squares.

• Cooling rack: Optional, but can be used to place the baking dish on while the fudge cools.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure out sugar, milk, peanut butter, butter, and vanilla extract before starting to streamline the process.

Use a microwave: Melt the butter and peanut butter together in the microwave to save time on the stovetop.

Line the baking dish: Use parchment paper instead of greasing the dish for easier cleanup and quicker removal of the fudge.

Cool quickly: Place the baking dish in the refrigerator to speed up the cooling process so you can cut and serve the fudge sooner.