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For a rich and creamy peanut butter chocolate fudge, you need these simple ingredients: - 1 cup creamy peanut butter - 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips - 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds, optional) - 1/4 cup mini marshmallows (optional, for extra texture) Each ingredient plays a key role in creating that perfect fudge. The creamy peanut butter gives a nutty flavor and smooth texture. Semi-sweet chocolate chips bring sweetness and depth. Sweetened condensed milk adds creaminess and helps everything stick together. The sea salt balances the sweetness, while vanilla extract enhances the flavor. Nuts and marshmallows add fun textures. You can mix things up with these optional ingredients: - Chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds) - Mini marshmallows Adding nuts gives a nice crunch. Mini marshmallows add a soft, chewy bite. You can also try different toppings like extra chocolate chips or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for flair. If you don’t have some ingredients, don’t worry! Here are some substitutes you can use: - Natural peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter - Dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips - Coconut milk can replace sweetened condensed milk These swaps can change the taste a bit but will still lead to a tasty fudge. Just keep in mind that the texture might differ slightly. {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, grab an 8x8-inch baking dish. Line it with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some overhang. This will help you lift the fudge out later. The paper keeps the fudge from sticking. It’s an easy way to ensure a clean finish. Next, take a medium saucepan. Combine the creamy peanut butter, semi-sweet chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and sea salt. Heat this mix over medium-low heat. Stir constantly until everything melts together. The goal is a smooth and creamy texture. This step is key to getting a rich taste. Once your mixture is smooth, take it off the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor. If you want to add chopped nuts or mini marshmallows, now is the time. Fold them in gently. This adds fun textures to your fudge. After mixing, pour the fudge into your prepared dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Avoid these common mistakes for the best results with your fudge: - Not stirring enough: Stirring keeps the fudge smooth. - Using too high heat: Medium-low heat is key for melting. - Skipping the sea salt: Salt enhances the flavors. Don’t skip it! To get the right texture, follow these tips: - Use creamy peanut butter: Creamy gives a smooth finish. - Melt slowly: Slow melting keeps it creamy. - Cool slowly: Let it cool at room temp before chilling. Here are the tools I find most helpful: - Medium saucepan: For melting your mixture. - Spatula: Great for spreading the fudge evenly. - 8x8-inch baking dish: Perfect size for this recipe. - Parchment paper: Helps with easy removal. Using the right tools will make your fudge-making easier and more fun! Pro Tips Use Quality Ingredients: The better the quality of your chocolate and peanut butter, the richer and more decadent your fudge will taste. Don’t Overheat: When melting the mixture, keep the heat low and stir constantly to avoid burning the chocolate and creating a gritty texture. Storage Secrets: For the best texture, store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to a week. Customize Your Fudge: Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins like dried fruits or flavored extracts to create unique variations of this fudge. {{image_2}} You can change the flavor of your fudge easily. Adding mint extract gives a fresh twist. Just use a half teaspoon. For a salty kick, sprinkle sea salt on top. It pairs well with the sweet chocolate. You can make this fudge vegan by using dairy-free chocolate chips. Swap sweetened condensed milk for coconut cream. This keeps it creamy and rich. For gluten-free fudge, check the labels on your ingredients. Most chocolate chips are gluten-free, but always verify. Dried fruits add a chewy texture. Try raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots. Different nuts can change the taste too. Walnuts and almonds are great, but pecans or cashews also work well. You can mix and match to find your favorite combo! To keep your peanut butter chocolate fudge fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure the fudge is completely cool before placing it in the container. If you want to keep it extra safe, you can layer parchment paper between the fudge squares. This method helps prevent sticking. When stored correctly, your fudge can last up to two weeks at room temperature. If you keep it in the fridge, it can last for about three weeks. Just remember to check for any signs of spoilage, like odd smells or changes in texture. You can freeze the fudge for longer storage. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, they stay fresh and tasty. Frozen fudge can last up to three months. When you're ready to eat it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Enjoy your sweet treat whenever you like! Yes, you can use natural peanut butter. It may change the fudge's texture. Natural peanut butter has less sugar and oil. This can make your fudge less sweet and a bit crumbly. If you prefer a smoother fudge, stick with creamy peanut butter. If your fudge is too soft, chill it longer. Place it in the fridge for an extra hour or two. You can also try adding more chocolate chips to thicken it. Melt them in and mix well. This helps create a firmer texture. To cut fudge into perfect squares, use a sharp knife. First, let the fudge set completely. Then, lift it out of the dish using parchment paper. Place it on a cutting board. Wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts for clean edges. Yes, you can make fudge without sweetened condensed milk. Try using coconut cream or a mix of butter and sugar instead. These alternatives still create a creamy fudge. Adjust the amount of chocolate to balance sweetness. In this blog post, we explored the key ingredients for fudge, how to prepare it, and tips for success. We looked at tasty variations and proper storage methods too. Fudge is fun and easy to make, and you can get creative with flavors. Remember to follow the steps and use the right tools for the best results. Enjoy your fudge, and don’t be afraid to try new ideas!

Decadent Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge

A rich and creamy fudge made with peanut butter and chocolate, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 2 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds, optional)
  • 1 4 cup mini marshmallows (optional, for extra texture)

Instructions
 

  • Begin by lining an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
  • In a medium saucepan, combine peanut butter, chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and sea salt. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until everything is melted and smooth.
  • Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. If you are adding chopped nuts and mini marshmallows, fold them in at this stage.
  • Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  • For an extra touch, you can sprinkle a few additional chocolate chips or chopped nuts on top for decoration.
  • Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
  • Once set, lift the fudge out of the dish using the parchment paper overhang, and cut into squares or rectangles for serving.

Notes

Serve the fudge squares on a decorative plate, and consider drizzling with melted chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt for an upscale touch. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Keyword chocolate, dessert, fudge, peanut butter