Peanut Butter Fantasy Fudge: A Decadent Dream Come True

Peanut butter and fudge – a match made in dessert heaven! This Peanut Butter Fantasy Fudge recipe is a creamy, dreamy confection that combines the rich, chocolatey goodness of classic fudge with the irresistible nutty flavor of peanut butter. It’s surprisingly easy to make and perfect for holidays, parties, or just a sweet treat any time of the year. Get ready to indulge in a melt-in-your-mouth experience that will have everyone begging for more.

Why This Recipe Works

* **Creamy Texture:** The combination of sweetened condensed milk, butter, and chocolate chips creates a smooth and velvety texture that is simply divine.
* **Intense Flavor:** The perfect balance of chocolate and peanut butter ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor.
* **Easy to Make:** This recipe requires no candy thermometer or complicated techniques, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels.
* **Make-Ahead Friendly:** Fudge is a great dessert to make in advance, as it stores well and can even improve in flavor over time.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt this recipe by adding chopped nuts, pretzels, or other mix-ins to create your own unique flavor combinations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

* **3 cups granulated sugar:** Provides sweetness and structure to the fudge.
* **3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter:** Adds richness, flavor, and helps create a smooth texture.
* **2/3 cup evaporated milk:** Contributes to the creamy consistency of the fudge.
* **12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips:** Provides the classic chocolate flavor. You can also use dark chocolate chips for a richer, more intense flavor.
* **7 ounces marshmallow creme:** Adds sweetness and helps to create a smooth, creamy texture. (One standard jar is usually 7oz.)
* **1 cup creamy peanut butter:** The star of the show! Use your favorite brand of creamy peanut butter. Avoid natural peanut butter, as it can separate and affect the texture of the fudge.
* **1 teaspoon vanilla extract:** Enhances the other flavors and adds a touch of warmth.
* **Pinch of salt:** Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.

**Optional Mix-ins:**

* 1/2 cup chopped peanuts or other nuts
* 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
* 1/2 cup crushed pretzels
* Chocolate shavings for garnish

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect Peanut Butter Fantasy Fudge:

**Step 1: Prepare the Pan**

Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides. This will make it easy to lift the fudge out of the pan once it has set. Lightly grease the parchment paper with butter or cooking spray. This prevents the fudge from sticking.

**Step 2: Combine Sugar, Butter, and Milk**

In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, butter, and evaporated milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved and the butter is melted. Make sure no sugar granules remain on the bottom of the pan.

**Step 3: Bring to a Rolling Boil**

Once the sugar is dissolved, bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium heat. A rolling boil is a boil that continues even when stirred. Continue boiling for 5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. It’s crucial to stir constantly and scrape the bottom of the pan to prevent the sugar from burning.

**Step 4: Remove from Heat**

After boiling for 5 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat.

**Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips and Marshmallow Creme**

Immediately add the semi-sweet chocolate chips and marshmallow creme to the hot mixture. Stir continuously until the chocolate chips are completely melted and the marshmallow creme is fully incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and glossy.

**Step 6: Stir in Peanut Butter, Vanilla, and Salt**

Add the creamy peanut butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the mixture. Stir until everything is well combined and the peanut butter is fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the fudge grainy.

**Step 7: Add Optional Mix-ins (Optional)**

If you’re using any mix-ins, such as chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, or crushed pretzels, gently fold them into the fudge mixture.

**Step 8: Pour into Prepared Pan**

Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread the fudge evenly into all corners of the pan. Smooth the top of the fudge to create a uniform surface.

**Step 9: Chill Until Firm**

Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the fudge to set completely. The longer the fudge chills, the firmer it will become.

**Step 10: Cut and Serve**

Once the fudge is firm, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place the fudge on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut it into squares. You can cut the fudge into any size you prefer, but 1-inch squares are a good starting point. To make the fudge easier to cut, you can run the knife under hot water and dry it before each slice.

**Step 11: Garnish (Optional)**

If desired, garnish the fudge with chocolate shavings, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of sea salt before serving.

## Tips for Success

* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor and texture of your fudge. Use good quality chocolate chips and creamy peanut butter for the best results.
* **Stir Constantly:** When cooking the sugar, butter, and milk mixture, stir constantly to prevent scorching. Burnt sugar can ruin the flavor of the fudge.
* **Don’t Overcook:** Overcooking the sugar mixture can result in a grainy fudge. Be sure to boil for only 5 minutes.
* **Use Creamy Peanut Butter:** Avoid using natural peanut butter, as it can separate and affect the texture of the fudge. Creamy peanut butter provides the best texture and consistency.
* **Chill Completely:** Allow the fudge to chill completely before cutting it. This will make it easier to cut into clean squares.
* **Line the Pan with Parchment Paper:** Lining the pan with parchment paper makes it easy to lift the fudge out of the pan and prevents it from sticking.
* **Run Knife Under Hot Water:** If you’re having trouble cutting the fudge cleanly, run the knife under hot water and dry it before each slice.

## Variations and Add-ins

* **Chocolate Swirl:** Before pouring the fudge into the pan, reserve 1/4 cup of the melted chocolate mixture. Drizzle it over the top of the fudge and swirl it with a toothpick or knife.
* **Peanut Butter Swirl:** Reserve 1/4 cup of the peanut butter and swirl it into the fudge after pouring it into the pan.
* **Nuts:** Add chopped peanuts, walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the fudge for added crunch and flavor.
* **Pretzels:** Add crushed pretzels to the fudge for a salty-sweet combination.
* **Mini Marshmallows:** Add mini marshmallows to the fudge for a chewy texture.
* **Espresso Powder:** Add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder to the fudge for a mocha flavor.
* **Sea Salt:** Sprinkle sea salt over the top of the fudge for a salty-sweet contrast.
* **White Chocolate:** Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
* **Dark Chocolate:** Use dark chocolate chips for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
* **Reese’s Pieces:** Add Reese’s Pieces to the fudge for an extra peanut butter boost.

## Storing Peanut Butter Fantasy Fudge

Peanut Butter Fantasy Fudge can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze the fudge for up to 2 months. To freeze, wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw the fudge in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

## Serving Suggestions

* Serve Peanut Butter Fantasy Fudge as a sweet treat after dinner.
* Add it to a dessert platter for parties and holidays.
* Give it as a homemade gift to friends and family.
* Crumble it over ice cream or yogurt.
* Use it as a topping for cakes or cupcakes.
* Enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea.

## Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)

* Calories: 250-300
* Fat: 15-20g
* Saturated Fat: 8-10g
* Cholesterol: 20-25mg
* Sodium: 50-75mg
* Carbohydrates: 30-35g
* Sugar: 25-30g
* Protein: 3-4g

**Note:** Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**Q: Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?**

A: It’s best to use creamy, processed peanut butter for this recipe. Natural peanut butter tends to separate and can make the fudge oily.

**Q: Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?**

A: Yes, you can use dark chocolate chips for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor. Keep in mind that the fudge will be slightly less sweet.

**Q: How do I prevent the fudge from being grainy?**

A: To prevent grainy fudge, be sure to dissolve the sugar completely and avoid overcooking the sugar mixture. Stir constantly and don’t boil for more than 5 minutes.

**Q: Can I add other mix-ins to the fudge?**

A: Yes, you can add a variety of mix-ins to the fudge, such as chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, crushed pretzels, or chocolate shavings. Just be sure to fold them in gently at the end.

**Q: How long does the fudge need to chill?**

A: The fudge needs to chill for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to set completely. The longer it chills, the firmer it will become.

**Q: How do I store the fudge?**

A: You can store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze the fudge for up to 2 months.

**Q: Can I halve this recipe?**

A: Yes, you can easily halve this recipe. Just use half of each ingredient and bake in a smaller pan.

**Q: The fudge is too soft, what did I do wrong?**

A: The fudge might be too soft if it wasn’t boiled for long enough or if it wasn’t chilled for a sufficient amount of time. Ensure you boil the mixture for the full 5 minutes, stirring constantly, and chill for at least 2 hours (or preferably overnight).

**Q: My fudge is too hard, what did I do wrong?**

A: Overboiling the mixture can result in hard fudge. Make sure to follow the recipe instructions carefully and avoid boiling for longer than 5 minutes.

## Conclusion

Peanut Butter Fantasy Fudge is a decadent and easy-to-make treat that is sure to impress. With its creamy texture, intense flavor, and customizable options, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and get ready to indulge in a peanut butter and chocolate fantasy!
Enjoy!