Indulge in Decadence: Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge
Satisfy your sweet tooth with a delectable treat that melts in your mouth—Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge. This irresistible confection combines the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with the creamy sweetness of marshmallows, creating a dessert that’s as indulgent as it is satisfying. Join us as we explore the art of making this classic fudge recipe, perfect for sharing with friends and family or indulging in a moment of pure bliss.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups peanut butter
- 4 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 10 oz mini marshmallows
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal of the fudge. Lightly grease the paper or foil with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the milk, peanut butter, sugar, and butter. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously until the ingredients are fully melted and well combined.
- Bring to Boil: Once the mixture is smooth and homogeneous, increase the heat to medium-high and bring it to a gentle boil, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. Allow the mixture to boil for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add Marshmallows: Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the mini marshmallows until they are fully incorporated into the mixture. The residual heat will melt the marshmallows and create a creamy texture.
- Transfer to Pan: Immediately pour the hot fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Smooth the surface of the fudge to ensure an even thickness.
- Chill and Set: Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and allow the fudge to chill for at least 2-3 hours, or until it is firm and set. Once chilled, use the parchment paper or foil overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan.
- Slice and Serve: Using a sharp knife, cut the chilled fudge into squares or rectangles of your desired size. Serve the fudge immediately, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Creamy Texture: For a smoother and creamier fudge, use creamy peanut butter instead of chunky. The smooth consistency of creamy peanut butter blends seamlessly into the fudge mixture, resulting in a velvety texture.
- Custom Flavors: Get creative with your fudge by adding extra ingredients such as chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or shredded coconut. Mix in your favorite toppings before pouring the fudge mixture into the baking dish for a personalized touch.
- Gift-Worthy Packaging: Package individual pieces of fudge in decorative boxes or tins to create thoughtful gifts for holidays, birthdays, or special occasions. Tie a ribbon around the packaging for an elegant finishing touch.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here are adaptations to make Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge recipe keto-friendly:
- Sugar Substitutes: Replace the sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol, stevia, or monk fruit sweetener. Be sure to adjust the amount of sweetener to taste, as some sweeteners are sweeter than others.
- Low-Carb Peanut Butter: Choose a natural peanut butter with no added sugars or preservatives to keep the carb count low. Look for brands that contain only peanuts and salt for a keto-friendly option.
- Butter Substitute: Use unsalted butter or coconut oil as a substitute for regular butter to reduce the carb content of the fudge. Both options provide richness and flavor without the added carbs.
In conclusion, Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge is a delightful treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings and indulging in a moment of pure indulgence. With its creamy texture, nutty flavor, and endless variations, this classic fudge recipe is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
So, why wait? Gather your ingredients and whip up a batch of Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge today. Whether enjoyed as a decadent dessert or shared with loved ones, this irresistible treat is guaranteed to bring joy to any occasion
Additional Serving Suggestions:
- Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled fudge before slicing. Use dark, milk, or white chocolate for a delicious contrast to the peanut butter flavor. Allow the chocolate to set before serving for an elegant presentation.
- Top with Sea Salt: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the sliced fudge for a gourmet twist. The salty-sweet combination enhances the flavors of the fudge and adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
- Pair with Ice Cream: Serve slices of Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge alongside scoops of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a decadent dessert experience. The creamy texture of the fudge complements the cold, creamy ice cream for a delightful treat.
- Dip in Chocolate: Dip individual pieces of fudge in melted chocolate and allow them to set before serving. This creates a chocolate shell around the fudge, adding an extra layer of richness and flavor.
Tips for Perfect Fudge:
- Use a Candy Thermometer: To ensure the fudge reaches the correct temperature, use a candy thermometer to monitor the cooking process. Soft ball stage, typically around 235°F to 240°F, is ideal for achieving the right consistency.
- Work Quickly: Once the fudge mixture is ready, work quickly to pour it into the prepared pan before it begins to set. The mixture thickens rapidly, so have everything ready beforehand to avoid any delays.
- Cut with Warm Knife: For clean, even slices, dip a sharp knife in hot water before cutting the chilled fudge. Wipe the knife clean between cuts to prevent sticking and ensure smooth edges.
- Store Properly: Store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.
Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge is a timeless treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual get-togethers with friends. With its irresistible flavor and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a favorite among peanut butter lovers everywhere.
So why not treat yourself and your loved ones to the decadent goodness of Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge? Whether enjoyed as a sweet indulgence or shared as a thoughtful gift, it’s sure to bring joy and delight to all who taste it.
Experience the Irresistible Delight of Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge Today!
