Peanut Butter Fudge
My grandmother gave me this excellent peanut butter candy recipe over 35 years ago, and I have been making it ever since. The recipe produces a creamy, smooth, melt-in-your-mouth fudge thats so easy to make and Oh, So Delicious
My grandmother gave me this excellent peanut butter candy recipe over 35 years ago, and I have been making it ever since. The recipe produces a creamy, smooth, melt-in-your-mouth fudge thats so easy to make and Oh, So Delicious
- Carbohydrate 19.8137296297479 g
- Cholesterol 8.99814814814815 mg
- Fat 4.13268092653996 g
- Fiber 0.10077778176765 g
- Protein 0.159280926004162 g
- Saturated Fat 2.21440370375643 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (35g)
- Sodium 27.2247777777778 mg
- Sugar 19.7129518479802 g
- Trans Fat 0.27627531484361 g
- Calories 114 calories
Step-by-step
- Grease a 9-by-13-inch baking pan and, if desired, line prepared pan with overlapping sheets of either parchment or wax paper, greased on both sides, pushing paper into corners and up sides of pan, allowing excess paper to overhang pan edges to create handles. Set pan aside.
- Melt butter or margarine in a large heavy-bottomed saucepan over low heat. Add sugar, corn syrup and evaporated milk, stirring until well blended.
- Increase heat to medium-high and bring mixture to a boil. As soon as mixture reaches a boil, lower heat to medium and boil slowly, stirring continually, for 5 minutes (or until mixture reaches soft ball stage - between 234 and 240 degrees F).
- Remove pan from heat, add peanut butter, marshmallow creme and vanilla, stirring until well combined (it should be a pale cream color).
- Stir in pecans, if desired.
- Pour mixture into prepared pan and let cool at room temperature on wire rack until firm (or, once cooled, place pan in refrigerator to speed firming).
- Remove fudge from pan using paper handles, peel off paper and cut into 1-inch squares.
- Store in an airtight container (layers separated by wax paper) in the fridge for up to a week.
My Grandma's Peanut Butter Fudge: A Sweet Tradition
The aroma of warm butter, sugar, and peanut butter – it’s a scent that instantly transports me back to my childhood. My grandmother’s peanut butter fudge recipe isn't just a recipe; it’s a cherished family heirloom, a taste of comfort and love passed down through generations. I remember watching her make it, the meticulous stirring, the anticipation of that first creamy bite. Now, over 35 years later, I carry on this tradition, and the joy it brings to my family is immeasurable.
This fudge isn't your average store-bought candy. It’s a labor of love, a testament to the simple pleasures of homemade goodness. The texture is unbelievably smooth, the taste a perfect blend of rich peanut butter and sweet, creamy marshmallow. It’s the kind of fudge that melts in your mouth, leaving you wanting more. It’s the kind of fudge that’s perfect for sharing, for gifting, for making special occasions even sweeter. And, honestly, it's the kind of fudge that deserves a spot in the fridge at all times, just in case a craving strikes.
I often find myself making double batches, especially around the holidays. There's something about this fudge that makes people happy; it's a crowd-pleaser, no doubt. The recipe itself is remarkably straightforward, even for a beginner baker. The most challenging part is the patience required for the slow, steady stirring while the sugar mixture cooks. But trust me, the end result is worth every minute of that careful attention. The recipe produces a generous amount of fudge, perfect for sharing with loved ones or stashing away for a personal indulgence.
Beyond the deliciousness, making this fudge is a meditative experience. The rhythmic stirring, the gradual transformation of ingredients into a creamy confection, it's a calming process. It's a way to connect with family history, to honor the legacy of a beloved grandmother, and to create something beautiful, delicious, and lasting. It is more than just a recipe; it’s a connection to the past and a delicious present, shared with those you love most.
This peanut butter fudge is more than just a sweet treat; it’s a symbol of family, tradition, and the enduring power of simple, homemade goodness. It’s a reminder to slow down, savor the moment, and appreciate the little things that make life sweet. So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and get ready to create some memories – one delicious bite at a time. Happy baking!
Tips and Variations:
- Nut Variations: While pecans are traditional, feel free to experiment with other nuts like walnuts or cashews. Even a sprinkle of sea salt can enhance the flavor profile.
- Chocolate Swirl: For an extra decadent twist, consider swirling melted dark or milk chocolate into the fudge before it sets.
- Storage: Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for optimal freshness. This keeps it from melting and preserves its delightful texture.
- Gift Giving: This fudge makes a beautiful and thoughtful gift. Package it in festive containers, adding a personalized touch for a truly memorable present.
Enjoy the process and the delicious results! You'll be surprised at how easy it is to create this classic treat, and your family and friends will thank you for it.
