Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I love making Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge because it's a delightful combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter, creating the perfect treat when I crave something sweet. This fudge is incredibly easy to prepare, and with just a few ingredients, I can whip it up in no time. Whether I’m gifting it or keeping it for myself, this fudge never disappoints. Plus, the texture is smooth and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, making it a favorite among my friends and family. It's hard to resist indulging in a second piece!
When I first attempted to make Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge, I was amazed at how just three simple ingredients could come together to create something so divine. I started with high-quality chocolate and creamy peanut butter, making sure to melt them gently to maintain the smooth texture. A little patience goes a long way in avoiding burnt chocolate!
This fudge needs to set, so I discovered that lining my pan with parchment paper made all the difference when it came time to cut the fudge. Plus, I always make sure to let it chill completely in the fridge to achieve that perfect, firm consistency.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy peanut butter
- Smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s irresistible
- Perfect for gifting or enjoying on cozy nights in
Chocolate and Peanut Butter Harmony
The winning combination of chocolate and peanut butter is what makes this fudge a standout. The semi-sweet chocolate chips provide a rich, indulgent base, while the smooth peanut butter adds a creamy texture that’s both satisfying and comforting. When choosing your peanut butter, ensure it’s smooth to prevent any graininess in the final fudge. Crunchy peanut butter can alter both the texture and overall mouthfeel, so save that for other recipes where added crunch is desired.
In this recipe, the unsweetened cocoa powder deepens the chocolate flavor without adding extra sweetness. This careful balance of ingredients means you won’t be overwhelmed by sugar. When melting the chocolate, keep the heat low to prevent it from seizing. Stir continuously and watch for a glossy appearance to signal that the chocolate is fully melted and ready to combine with the other ingredients.
Setting and Storing Your Fudge
Allowing the fudge to set properly is essential for achieving that perfect cut. Once you've poured the mixture into your lined baking dish, press it down evenly to eliminate air bubbles, which can create an uneven texture. Refrigerate the fudge for at least two hours, but if time allows, letting it chill overnight will enhance the flavors and firm up the texture even more, making for cleaner cuts when slicing.
If you plan to store your fudge, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to two weeks, retaining its rich, creamy texture. You can also freeze the fudge for longer storage; just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight for gradual defrosting, which helps maintain its integrity.
Ingredients
To make this delectable fudge, gather the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Be sure to have these ingredients ready before starting to make your fudge!
Instructions
Here’s how to unleash your inner chocolatier and make this fudge:
Melt the Chocolate
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk, stirring until melted and smooth.
Combine Ingredients
Remove from heat and quickly stir in the peanut butter, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined.
Pour and Set
Pour the mixture into a lined 8x8 inch baking dish and spread evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
Slice and Serve
Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper and slice into squares. Enjoy!
It’s that simple! Enjoy your homemade fudge!
Pro Tips
- Experiment by adding nuts or dried fruit to the fudge for extra flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. For a special treat, try drizzling melted chocolate over the top before it sets. This adds an elegant touch and enhances the chocolate flavor. Additionally, you can sprinkle chopped nuts or sea salt on top for added texture and flavor contrast. If you prefer a more festive look, cut the fudge into holiday-themed shapes using cookie cutters after it has set.
Pair the fudge with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee for a delightful snack. The richness of the fudge complements the creaminess of the milk, creating a satisfying indulgence. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider serving it with vanilla ice cream as an extravagant dessert combination that your guests will adore.
Common Troubleshooting Tips
If your fudge occurs to be too soft after refrigerating, it could be due to the ratio of wet to dry ingredients. To rectify this in the future, consider adding an extra tablespoon of cocoa powder or reducing the amount of condensed milk slightly. Always maintain the balance of other ingredients to ensure flavor harmony remains intact. If you notice the fudge is too hard to slice, simply let it sit at room temperature for a bit to soften up.
Another common issue can arise with melting chocolate. If it seizes and becomes clumpy, this usually happens due to a tiny amount of moisture. To manage this, make sure all your equipment is completely dry, and consider adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil or shortening while melting to help smooth out any lumps.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give a richer flavor to your fudge.
→ How should I store the fudge?
Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
→ Can I freeze the fudge?
Yes! You can freeze the fudge for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it well.
→ What other flavors can I add?
You can add flavors like cinnamon, espresso powder, or even swirl in some caramel for variety.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge
I love making Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge because it's a delightful combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter, creating the perfect treat when I crave something sweet. This fudge is incredibly easy to prepare, and with just a few ingredients, I can whip it up in no time. Whether I’m gifting it or keeping it for myself, this fudge never disappoints. Plus, the texture is smooth and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, making it a favorite among my friends and family. It's hard to resist indulging in a second piece!
Created by: Delilah Spencer
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 16 pieces
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
How-To Steps
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk, stirring until melted and smooth.
Remove from heat and quickly stir in the peanut butter, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined.
Pour the mixture into a lined 8x8 inch baking dish and spread evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper and slice into squares. Enjoy!
Extra Tips
- Experiment by adding nuts or dried fruit to the fudge for extra flavor and texture.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g