Experience the nostalgia and warmth of Mama’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge, a cherished family recipe passed down from my great-grandma. This rich, creamy fudge combines the sweetness of chocolate with the comforting taste of peanut butter, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for sharing. After finally mastering this beloved recipe, I’m excited to honor Mama’s memory and bring a taste of her kitchen back to life. Whether you enjoy it on special occasions or just because, this fudge is sure to create sweet memories with every bite.
Mama’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge
This recipe for Mama’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge holds a special place in my heart, passed down from my great-grandma. After finally perfecting it, I can’t wait to share this delicious treat with my siblings. Mama, who sadly passed in 2021 due to vascular dementia, hadn’t made this fudge in years, making it even more meaningful.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 stick (1/4 cup) butter
- 1/2 to 1 cup peanut butter (to taste)
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, milk, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract.
- Bring to a Boil: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to clear the sides of the pan. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can make it grainy.
- Test for Soft Ball Stage: Cook the fudge until it reaches the soft ball stage. To test, drop a small amount of the mixture into a bowl of cold water; it should form a soft ball.
- Remove from Heat: Once the desired consistency is reached, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the butter and peanut butter until fully combined.
- Pour and Cool: Pour the fudge mixture into a buttered 8×8 or 9×9-inch pan. Allow it to cool completely before cutting into 1-inch squares.
- Store: Store the fudge in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
tips for making Mama’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge:
- Use a Candy Thermometer: To ensure you reach the soft ball stage accurately, consider using a candy thermometer. This can help you avoid any guesswork and achieve the perfect consistency.
- Avoid Overstirring: Once the fudge mixture begins to boil, be careful not to stir too much. Overworking the mixture can cause it to become grainy, so stir only enough to keep it from sticking to the sides.
- Prepare Your Pan: Make sure to butter your pan well before pouring in the fudge. This will make it easier to remove the fudge once it’s set.
- Test for Doneness: Besides using the cold water test for the soft ball stage, you can also take a small amount of fudge and place it on a plate to see if it holds its shape as it cools.
- Cooling Time: Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature before cutting. This ensures that it sets properly and maintains its shape when you cut it into squares.
- Store Properly: To keep your fudge fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.
- Customize Flavors: Feel free to add variations, such as chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor boost.
- Gift Idea: Cut the fudge into squares and package them in a decorative box or tin to give as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.