Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe

Introduction

Grandma’s old-fashioned peanut butter fudge is a delightful treat that’s rich, creamy, and wonderfully nostalgic. This classic recipe is surprisingly simple to make and perfect for sharing during holidays or any special occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon butter (for greasing the pan)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 cups white sugar
• 2 cups brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Step 1: Grease a 9×13-inch pan with butter, then line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: In a pot, combine the white sugar, brown sugar, milk, and salt. Heat over medium-high, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
3. Step 3: Allow the mixture to boil without stirring until it reaches 239-240°F (115-116°C), about 5-10 minutes.
4. Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in the peanut butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
5. Step 5: Transfer the mixture to a stand mixer bowl or use a hand mixer. Beat on medium speed for about 5 minutes until thickened but still pourable.
6. Step 6: Pour the fudge into the prepared pan, spread evenly, and let cool for 1-2 hours until firm.
7. Step 7: Cut into squares and enjoy the rich peanut butter flavor!

Tips & Variations

• Use creamy peanut butter for the smoothest texture, or try chunky for added crunch.
• Make sure your sugar thermometer is accurate for perfect fudge consistency.
• Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor variations.
• If you don’t have a thermometer, cook the mixture until a small amount dropped into cold water forms a soft ball.

Storage

Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Allow fudge to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. You can also freeze fudge wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy?

Natural peanut butter can be used, but it may affect the texture and consistency of the fudge. It often has more oil separation, so stir well before adding and expect a slightly different texture.

Do I need a candy thermometer to make this fudge?

A candy thermometer helps achieve the perfect texture by measuring the exact temperature. If you don’t have one, you can test the fudge by dropping a small amount of hot mixture into cold water—it should form a soft ball that holds its shape but is still pliable.

Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe

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Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge is a nostalgic, creamy, and rich treat made with a classic combination of sugars, milk, and creamy peanut butter. This easy-to-make fudge delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and peanut flavor, offering a delightful and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying as a sweet snack.

• Author: lea
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
• Yield: 48 servings 1x
• Category: Fudge
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pan Preparation

• 1 teaspoon butter (for greasing the pan)
• Parchment paper (for lining the pan)

Fudge Ingredients

• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 cups white sugar
• 2 cups brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×13-inch pan with 1 teaspoon of butter and line it with parchment paper to ensure the fudge does not stick to the surface after setting.
2. Cook the Sugar Mixture: In a medium pot, combine the white sugar, brown sugar, milk, and sea salt. Heat over medium-high heat while stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves. Allow the mixture to come to a boil, then stop stirring and let it cook until it reaches the soft ball stage, 239-240°F (115-116°C), which typically takes 5-10 minutes.
3. Add Peanut Butter and Vanilla: Remove the pot from heat once the temperature is reached. Stir in the creamy peanut butter thoroughly until fully melted and incorporated. Then add the vanilla extract and mix well to combine all flavors evenly.
4. Cool the Fudge: Transfer the hot mixture into the bowl of a stand mixer, or a mixing bowl if using a hand mixer. Beat on medium speed for approximately 5 minutes until the fudge mixture thickens and cools. It should be firm but still pourable at this stage.
5. Set the Fudge: Pour the thickened fudge into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Allow it to cool at room temperature for 1-2 hours, or until it becomes firm enough to cut into squares.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once firm, cut the fudge into 48 small squares and enjoy the delicious, creamy peanut butter fudge.

Notes

• Use a candy thermometer to accurately monitor the temperature of the sugar mixture for best results.
• For a smoother texture, ensure the peanut butter is fully melted before beating.
• Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate to extend freshness.
• Line the pan with parchment paper with some overhang to easily lift the fudge out once set.
• You can customize the fudge by adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before it sets.

Keywords: peanut butter fudge, old-fashioned fudge, creamy fudge recipe, homemade fudge, easy fudge, classic peanut butter dessert, American fudge