Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love making Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge; it’s one of my favorite sweet treats. The combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare with just a few ingredients! Whether I’m indulging myself or sharing with friends, this fudge never disappoints. It’s perfect for any occasion, and the best part is that it requires no baking! In just a short amount of time, I can whip up a batch that’s sure to impress everyone.
Making Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge is a delightful journey that I love to embark on. Each time I prepare it, I’m reminded of the joy it brings not just to me, but also to those who share in the indulgence. I often find myself experimenting with additional toppings, like sea salt or crushed nuts, which adds an exciting twist to the traditional flavor profile. The simplicity of the recipe makes it easily reproducible, and I can’t help but share it with family and friends.
The technique works beautifully because the peanut butter, when combined with chocolate, creates a creamy texture that solidifies perfectly as it chills. One specific detail that I've found to be crucial is to let the fudge sit at room temperature for just a few minutes before cutting. This ensures cleaner slices and enhances the fudge’s taste experience. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy peanut butter
- No baking required, making it super easy and quick
- Perfectly indulgent for celebrations or a personal treat
- Customizable with various toppings to suit your taste
Creating the Perfect Texture
Achieving the ideal texture for your Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge hinges on the melting process. When microwaving the chocolate chips and peanut butter, make sure to stir after each interval to prevent burning. Ideally, aim for a glossy and smooth consistency without any lumps. If you accidentally overheat the mixture, it can seize. In such cases, adding a teaspoon of coconut oil can help to bring it back to a smooth state.
The use of sweetened condensed milk plays a crucial role in not just sweetness, but also the creaminess of your fudge. It acts as a binder, ensuring that your fudge holds together while providing a rich, velvety mouthfeel. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute light sweetened condensed milk, but keep in mind it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
Chilling to Perfection
After pouring your fudge mixture into the greased pan, smoothing the top is an important step. Use an offset spatula for a well-aerated, flat surface which will help it set evenly. Refrigerating for a minimum of 2 hours is essential; this allows the fudge to firm up adequately. If you're in a hurry, placing it in the freezer for about 30-40 minutes can also work, but be cautious not to freeze it too long, as it may become overly hard and challenging to cut.
Allowing the fudge to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting is another crucial tip. This helps the fudge soften slightly for cleaner cuts, minimizing crumbling. Consider using a sharp knife dipped in warm water to create clean, neat squares, making serving a breeze.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your fudge:
Ingredients
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Once you have everything, you’re ready to make this delicious fudge!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge:
Melt the Chocolate and Peanut Butter
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and creamy peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth.
Add Condensed Milk and Vanilla
Stir the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt into the melted chocolate mixture until fully incorporated.
Pour and Set
Pour the mixture into a greased 8x8 inch square pan or baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
Cut and Serve
Once set, remove from the refrigerator and allow sitting for a few minutes at room temperature before cutting into squares. Enjoy!
Enjoy your decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge with family and friends!
Pro Tips
- For added crunch, consider folding in some chopped nuts or pretzel pieces before pouring the mixture into the pan.
Storage and Shelf Life
Once your Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge is set, it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, consider keeping it in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to two weeks. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
If you're planning to make fudge ahead of time for events or holidays, you can also freeze it! Cut the fudge into squares and layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for about an hour.
Customizing Your Fudge
One of the best things about this Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it with various toppings, such as crushed nuts, sprinkles, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate. To incorporate additional flavors, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a teaspoon of espresso powder to the melted mixture for a unique twist.
If you're looking for a nut-free alternative, try switching the peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or almond butter. Just ensure the substitute you choose has a similar consistency to ensure the fudge sets properly. This adaptability allows you to cater to different taste preferences or dietary needs.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute with milk chocolate for a sweeter fudge.
→ How should I store the fudge?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
→ Can I freeze the fudge?
Absolutely! You can freeze the fudge for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly.
→ What can I add for different flavors?
You can add ingredients like crushed Oreos, toffee bits, or even a swirl of caramel.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge
I absolutely love making Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge; it’s one of my favorite sweet treats. The combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare with just a few ingredients! Whether I’m indulging myself or sharing with friends, this fudge never disappoints. It’s perfect for any occasion, and the best part is that it requires no baking! In just a short amount of time, I can whip up a batch that’s sure to impress everyone.
Created by: Katherine Blake
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 16 pieces
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How-To Steps
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and creamy peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth.
Stir the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt into the melted chocolate mixture until fully incorporated.
Pour the mixture into a greased 8x8 inch square pan or baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
Once set, remove from the refrigerator and allow sitting for a few minutes at room temperature before cutting into squares. Enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For added crunch, consider folding in some chopped nuts or pretzel pieces before pouring the mixture into the pan.
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