ADVERTISEMENT
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Peanut Butter Fudge
Prepare Your Cooking Space
Gather your tools:
A large, heavy-bottomed saucepan (for even heating)
A sturdy wooden spoon or silicone spatula (for stirring)
A greased 11×13-inch baking pan for each double batch (or a larger pan for combined batches)
Combine Sugar and Milk
In your saucepan, combine:
2 cups of sugar
1 cup of milk
Stir well to dissolve the sugar before applying heat.
Bring to a Rapid Boil
Set the saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once it reaches a rapid boil, allow it to cook for exactly 2 ½ minutes. Precision is key—overcooking can result in a grainy texture, while undercooking may leave your fudge too soft to set.
Add Vanilla and Peanut Butter
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Quickly stir in:
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
2 cups of peanut butter
Mix until the peanut butter has completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
Pour and Set
Pour the mixture into the prepared greased pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula, ensuring a uniform thickness. Let the fudge cool at room temperature or in the refrigerator until fully set, which typically takes 1–2 hours.
Scaling Up for Three Double Batches
When making three double batches simultaneously:
Use a large stockpot to accommodate the increased volume.
Double the greased pans or use a large baking tray if you prefer to combine all batches into one.
Mix each batch thoroughly to ensure consistency across the larger quantity.
Pro Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Fudge
Use High-Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your fudge will be influenced by the quality of your peanut butter and vanilla extract. Opt for natural or premium peanut butter and pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
Avoid Overcooking: A candy thermometer can help ensure the mixture doesn’t exceed the ideal temperature. The sweet spot for fudge is between 234°F and 240°F (soft-ball stage).
Customize Your Fudge: For a fun twist, consider adding mix-ins like:
Chocolate chips
Crushed pretzels
Mini marshmallows
Chopped nuts Fold these into the mixture before pouring it into the pan.
Store Properly: Once set, cut the fudge into small squares and store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Fudge Too Soft?
If your fudge is too soft, refrigerate it for a bit longer or cook the sugar and milk mixture for an additional 30 seconds during boiling.
Grainy Texture?
Ensure the sugar fully dissolves before boiling and stir constantly to prevent crystallization.
Fudge Sticks to the Pan?
Line the pan with parchment paper before pouring the fudge mixture for easy removal.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This approach ensures simplicity, reliability, and a luscious texture every time. By focusing on precise measurements, careful timing, and high-quality ingredients, you’ll create peanut butter fudge that rivals any professional confectioner’s.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut butter fudge is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it by:
Drizzling with melted chocolate.
Sprinkling with flaky sea salt for a sweet-and-savory twist.
Pairing with coffee or hot cocoa for the perfect treat.
Enjoy your perfect peanut butter fudge, whether you’re sharing it at a gathering or keeping it all for yourself!
