There’s something simply magical about Peanut Butter Fudge that brings me back to my childhood. I remember the first time I made this delicious treat with my grandmother. We filled the kitchen with laughter as we mixed the ingredients, and I would sneak spoonfuls of that creamy, dreamy goodness when I thought she wasn’t looking. Spoiler: she always was! It was a true bonding moment, and now it has become my go-to recipe to impress friends and satisfy that sweet tooth.
What I love about this Peanut Butter Fudge is how easily it comes together. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch that not only tastes divine but also fulfills those chocolate cravings without all the fuss of baking. Plus, it’s no-bake, making it a lifesaver on those sweltering summer days when standing over a hot oven is not on my agenda!
What’s in Peanut Butter Fudge?
Peanut Butter: The star of the show! I always go with creamy peanut butter, as it provides a smooth texture that melts beautifully. Feel free to experiment with natural brands if you’re feeling adventurous!
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This lovely ingredient is the secret to the fudge’s melt-in-your-mouth consistency. I opt for a low-fat version sometimes, but the full-thickness variety is definitely a treat!
Chocolate Chips: Chocolate makes everything better, right? I tend to use semi-sweet chocolate chips for that perfect balance of sweet and rich. You can also go dark if you’re feeling fancy!
Optional Toppings (like crushed nuts or sea salt): You can get creative here! Crunchy peanuts or a light sprinkle of sea salt can add a delightful twist.
Is Peanut Butter Fudge Good for You?
Ah, the million-dollar question! While Peanut Butter Fudge isn’t exactly a health food, it does have some redeeming qualities.
Peanut Butter: Packed with protein and healthy fats, it provides satiety. Just be sure to watch portion sizes since it’s also calorie-dense.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Way sweet, but it does add creaminess and different nutrients like calcium. Just don’t go overboard!
So, enjoy your fudge as an occasional treat, and maybe share some with friends to avoid indulging too much. Moderation is key, especially when it’s this delicious!
Ingredients List
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Optional toppings: crushed peanuts or sea salt
*Yields approximately 24 squares of fudge, depending on how big you cut them!*
How to Make Peanut Butter Fudge?
1. Begin by lining an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make for easy removal later.
2. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously until combined and smooth—trust me, it will smell amazing!
3. Once everything is melted and blended, remove it from the heat and add your chocolate chips. Stir until they melt and the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
4. Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
5. If you’re adding toppings, sprinkle them on now—crushed nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt add a nice contrast.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the fudge is firm.
7. Once set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into squares. Enjoy!
Creative Serving Ideas for Peanut Butter Fudge
This fudge is fabulous on its own, but why not dress it up a bit? Try layering it between two graham crackers for a cute, sweet treat! Or, melt some more chocolate and drizzle over the top for a super decadent finish. If you’re feeling extra, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a sundae that will leave your taste buds dancing.
So, there you have it! My all-time favorite Peanut Butter Fudge recipe. I truly hope you give it a whirl. It’s perfect for sharing, or, you know… not sharing if you really don’t want to! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so don’t forget to share your own fudge adventures—happy cooking!