Peanut Butter Fudge

Peanut butter fudge is a rich, creamy treat that melts in your mouth with every bite. Whether you’re preparing for a party, holiday gift-giving, or just craving something indulgent, making 3 double batches of peanut butter fudge ensures you’ll have plenty to share. This recipe is simple to follow and produces a luscious fudge with a perfect balance of sweetness and peanut butter flavor. Let’s dive into the ingredients, steps, and tips to help you create this delicious dessert in bulk.

Ingredients for 3 Double Batches of Peanut Butter Fudge

To make 3 double batches of peanut butter fudge, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups (480g) peanut butter (creamy or chunky, depending on your preference)
• 4 cups (800g) powdered sugar (for the perfect fudge consistency)
• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for flavor depth)
• 2 cups (480ml) sweetened condensed milk (for creaminess)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (to balance the sweetness)

This recipe makes a significant amount of fudge, so make sure you have plenty of storage containers or gift boxes for the finished product!

Instructions for Making 3 Double Batches of Peanut Butter Fudge

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

• Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray. This makes it easier to remove the fudge after it has set.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Peanut Butter

• In a large saucepan, melt 1 cup of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, stir in the peanut butter and allow it to melt completely, mixing to create a smooth, glossy texture.

Step 3: Add Sweetened Condensed Milk

• Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and stir to combine with the peanut butter mixture. Continue cooking for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Incorporate Powdered Sugar and Vanilla

• Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the powdered sugar. It’s important to sift the sugar beforehand to avoid any lumps. Stir until fully incorporated.
• Add the vanilla extract and salt, mixing until evenly combined.

Step 5: Pour the Mixture into the Baking Dish

• Once the fudge mixture is smooth and thick, pour it into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the surface with a spatula.

Step 6: Chill the Fudge

• Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours or until it is firm enough to cut into squares. For best results, allow the fudge to set overnight in the fridge.

Step 7: Cut and Serve

• Once set, remove the fudge from the baking dish and cut it into small squares. Since this recipe makes 3 double batches, you should have plenty of pieces to share with friends, family, or as a delightful gift!

Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Fudge Every Time

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, peanut butter, and sweetened condensed milk are at room temperature to help them blend smoothly.
• Storage: Store your peanut butter fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to 3 weeks, or freeze it for several months.
• Customization: Feel free to customize your fudge by adding chocolate chips, swirls of caramel, or even crushed nuts for a bit of texture.
• Easy Serving: For a neat presentation, sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the fudge before it sets, which adds an extra touch of flavor.

Why Make 3 Double Batches?

Making 3 double batches of peanut butter fudge is a great idea for those who want to make sure there’s enough to go around! It’s perfect for:

• Holiday Baking: Whether it’s Christmas, Thanksgiving, or Easter, peanut butter fudge is always a hit.
• Gift-Giving: Package the fudge in decorative gift boxes or tins and share the sweetness with friends and family.
• Parties and Events: Fudge is a popular treat at any gathering. Having three batches ensures you’ll have plenty to serve.

Conclusion

Peanut butter fudge is a crowd-pleasing treat that’s easy to make, and making 3 double batches ensures you’ll have more than enough for everyone. This simple, creamy fudge recipe can be enjoyed on its own or customized with fun toppings and mix-ins. Whether you’re making it for a party, a holiday treat, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this indulgent peanut butter fudge is guaranteed to be a hit!

Serving and Storage Tips for Peanut Butter Fudge

Serving Tips:

1. Perfect Portions:
   When cutting your peanut butter fudge, aim for bite-sized pieces. This allows guests or family members to enjoy it in smaller portions, especially since it’s quite rich. A typical 9×13-inch pan yields about 30-36 squares depending on the size.
2. Pairing Options:
   Peanut butter fudge pairs wonderfully with a variety of desserts or snacks. Serve it alongside chocolate truffles, a fruit platter, or a cold glass of milk for a sweet treat combination.
3. Garnish for Extra Flair:
   Consider garnishing the fudge with a sprinkle of sea salt, mini chocolate chips, or a drizzle of melted chocolate for added flavor and visual appeal. For a fun twist, you can even add crushed nuts or pretzels for crunch.
4. Gift Presentation:
   If you plan on gifting your fudge, neatly cut pieces and arrange them in a decorative gift box or tin. Wrap the container with a ribbon or a festive bow for a homemade touch. It makes for an impressive and thoughtful gift, perfect for holidays or special occasions.

Storage Tips:

1. Room Temperature Storage:
   Peanut butter fudge can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent moisture from affecting the texture.
2. Refrigeration for Longer Freshness:
   If you want to store the fudge for a longer period, place it in the fridge. When properly stored in an airtight container, it can stay fresh for up to 3 weeks. Refrigeration helps keep the fudge firm and prevents it from becoming too soft.
3. Freezing for Future Enjoyment:
   Peanut butter fudge also freezes well. To freeze, cut the fudge into squares and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or wax paper. Then, place the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen fudge can last up to 3 months, and you can thaw individual pieces as needed by letting them sit at room temperature for a few minutes.
4. Avoid Overcrowding:
   When storing fudge, ensure there’s enough space between the pieces to avoid sticking. You can layer fudge pieces with parchment paper or wax paper in between layers if necessary.

By following these simple serving and storage tips, your homemade peanut butter fudge will remain fresh, delicious, and ready to enjoy whenever the craving strikes!

1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?

Yes, you can absolutely use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a bit of texture in your fudge. The crunchy peanut butter will give the fudge a nice bite, adding an extra layer of flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture will be different from the smooth, creamy fudge made with creamy peanut butter.

2. Can I add chocolate to my peanut butter fudge?

Definitely! Chocolate and peanut butter are a classic combination. You can swirl in melted chocolate to the fudge mixture before it sets or drizzle melted chocolate on top after cutting the fudge into squares. Alternatively, you can fold in chocolate chips for extra chocolaty goodness.

3. How long does peanut butter fudge last?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, peanut butter fudge will stay fresh for up to 1 week. If you refrigerate it, it will last up to 3 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze the fudge for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or wax paper before freezing.

4. Can I make peanut butter fudge without sweetened condensed milk?

Yes, you can make a version of peanut butter fudge without sweetened condensed milk. If you prefer an alternative, you can use heavy cream and additional powdered sugar to achieve a similar consistency. However, sweetened condensed milk gives the fudge its signature creamy texture and sweetness, so it’s best to follow the original recipe for the best results.

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