Are you craving a rich, decadent dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Alton Brown Peanut Butter Fudge recipe is the perfect answer for those busy weeknights when you're yearning for something sweet but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen. It's a delightful blend of creamy peanut butter, sweet chocolate, and a touch of salt – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! This easy recipe delivers a delicious homemade treat without the fuss, making it ideal for both beginner bakers and experienced cooks seeking a quick and satisfying dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal later. This simple step makes clean-up a breeze!
Make the Fudge:
-
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and heavy cream. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves completely. This prevents scorching and ensures a smooth texture.
-
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, continuing to stir. Once boiling, continue to boil for exactly one minute, timing carefully. Don't overcook!
-
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the peanut butter, chocolate chips, salt, and butter. Stir vigorously until the chocolate and butter are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy. A whisk works wonders here!
-
Pour the fudge into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Chill and Enjoy:
-
Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, or until it's firm enough to cut into squares. Patience is key here for the best texture.
-
Once firm, lift the fudge out of the dish using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into small squares and enjoy your delicious homemade peanut butter fudge!
Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Fudge:
-
Use good quality peanut butter: The flavor of your peanut butter will significantly impact the overall taste of the fudge. Opt for creamy peanut butter for the best texture.
-
Don't overcook the sugar mixture: Overcooking can result in grainy fudge. Precisely following the one-minute boil time is crucial.
-
Work quickly when adding the chocolate and peanut butter: The mixture will start to cool and thicken quickly once removed from the heat.
-
Chill completely: Allowing the fudge to chill thoroughly will prevent it from being too soft or sticky.
Variations:
-
Add a crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts, pretzels, or even cookie crumbs for added texture and flavor.
-
Spice it up: A dash of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a surprising twist.
-
Chocolate variations: Experiment with different types of chocolate, such as milk chocolate or dark chocolate, to customize the flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per square, approximate):
- Calories: Around 150-200 (depending on the size of the squares and ingredients used). This is a decadent treat, so enjoy it in moderation!
This easy peanut butter fudge recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. It's a quick, delicious, and impressive dessert that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!