There’s something about peanut butter fudge that speaks directly to the soul. It’s creamy, it’s nutty, and it’s oh-so-indulgent. Today, I’m excited to share with you an incredibly easy Peanut Butter Fudge recipe that requires no baking and minimal ingredients. It’s a foolproof treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Why You’ll Love This Festive Homemade Treat
- Effortlessly Easy . This recipe involves simple steps with no baking required, perfect for any level of cooking experience.
- Rich and Creamy . With its velvety texture, each bite of this fudge is a peanut butter lover’s dream.
- Perfect for All Occasions . Whether it’s a holiday treat, a gift, or just a personal indulgence, this fudge is always a hit.
Indulge in this homemade Peanut Butter Fudge, and prepare to be wowed by its simplicity and deliciousness. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned chef, this recipe will become a fast favorite.
What Is The Secret To Good Fudge?
The secret to good fudge lies in a combination of factors, from the choice of ingredients to the precision in preparation. Here are some key elements that contribute to making exceptional fudge:
- Precise Ingredient Measurements . Using exact amounts of ingredients ensures consistency in texture and taste.
- Quality Ingredients . High-quality chocolate and pure flavorings can make a significant difference.
- Proper Cooking Temperature . Cooking the fudge to the right temperature is crucial for the perfect consistency.
- Cooling Process . Allowing the fudge to cool and set properly ensures a firm yet creamy texture.
Why Is My Peanut Butter Fudge Not Setting Up?
If your peanut butter fudge is not setting up, it could be due to several factors:
- Ingredient Ratios . Too much peanut butter or not enough powdered sugar can affect the fudge’s ability to set. Make sure you measure your ingredients accurately.
- Mixing Issues If the sugar isn’t properly incorporated into the peanut butter and butter mixture, it can prevent the fudge from setting. The mixture should be smooth and homogenous.
- Temperature The fudge mixture may not have been heated enough. For most fudge recipes, the sugar needs to reach a soft ball stage (around 235-240°F) to set properly.
- Cooling Process . The fudge needs to cool undisturbed at room temperature until it’s completely set. Moving it to the fridge too soon or not letting it set long enough can result in a soft fudge.
If your fudge isn’t setting, you can try chilling it for a longer period, or if it’s still very soft, reheat it to the soft ball stage to ensure the sugar is at the right consistency, and then let it set again.
What Is Peanut Butter Fudge Made Of?
- Creamy Peanut Butter - Choose your favorite brand for that perfect peanut flavor.
- Unsalted Butter - Adds richness and helps achieve the perfect fudge texture.
- Vanilla Extract - A touch of vanilla enhances the overall flavor.
- Powdered Sugar - For sweetness and structure.
- Pinch of Salt - To balance the sweetness and bring out the peanut butter flavor.
How To Make Peanut Butter Fudge
- Mix the Ingredients . Start by melting the peanut butter and butter together in a saucepan until it comes to a simmer. Remove from the heat. Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Combine with Powdered Sugar . Gradually add powdered sugar to the peanut butter mixture until well combined and smooth.
- Set the Fudge . Spread the mixture into a lined baking dish and refrigerate until set.
- Cut and Serve . Once firm, cut the fudge into squares and serve.
Tips And Tricks
Making peanut butter fudge without a candy thermometer can be a bit of a challenge since achieving the right temperature is crucial for the fudge to set properly. However, it’s certainly possible with a few tips and tricks:
- Soft Ball Stage Test . This is a traditional method used to test sugar syrup for fudge. Drop a small amount of your fudge mixture into a bowl of cold water. If it forms a soft ball that flattens when removed from the water, it has reached the soft ball stage.
- Consistency Check . As you cook the fudge mixture, watch for it to thicken and for the color to change slightly. It should start to pull away from the sides of the pot when it’s ready.
- Stirring . Stir constantly to avoid burning, but once it starts to boil, reduce your stirring to prevent crystallization.
- Setting . Allow the fudge to set at room temperature. Chilling it in the refrigerator can cause it to become too hard.
Variations
Peanut butter fudge is a versatile treat, and there are many ways you can switch up the basic recipe for some delightful variations. Here are some ideas:
- Chocolate Peanut Butter - Add melted chocolate or cocoa powder to the fudge mixture for a classic chocolate and peanut butter combo.
- Nutty Fudge - Stir in chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans for added texture and a nutty flavor.
- Crunchy - Use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth for extra texture.
What To Enjoy With Peanut Butter Fudge
Peanut butter fudge is a rich and sweet treat, and when considering what to enjoy with it, you might want to look for items that complement its flavors and textures, or provide a pleasant contrast. Here are some suggestions:
- Beverages Coffee- The bitterness can balance the sweetness of the fudge. Milk- Classic pairing, especially cold milk. Tea- A strong black tea or a spiced chai can offset the sweetness nicely.
- Nuts Almonds or walnuts- Adding a bit of crunch and nutty flavor. Salted peanuts- For an extra peanut boost and a salty kick.
- Salty Snacks Pretzels- The saltiness complements the sweet fudge. Potato chips- For a sweet and salty treat.
How Long Can You Store Peanut Butter Fudge?
This Peanut Butter Fudge can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Its flavor even deepens a bit with time, making it a great make-ahead treat.
Can You Freeze It?
Absolutely! Peanut Butter Fudge freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
More Peanut Butter Desserts
- Peanut Butter Brownies
- Peanut Butter Cake
- No Bake Peanut Butter Bars
- Peanut Butter Fat Bombs
- Peanut Butter Balls
Peanut Butter Fudge | Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Ingredients
- ▢ 1 cup Creamy Peanut Butter
- ▢ 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter
- ▢ 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- ▢ 2 cups Powdered Sugar
- ▢ 1/4 tsp Kosher Salt
Instructions
- Mix the Ingredients . Start by melting the peanut butter and butter together in a saucepan until it comes to a simmer. Remove from the heat. Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Combine with Powdered Sugar . Gradually add powdered sugar to the peanut butter mixture until well combined and smooth.
- Set the Fudge . Spread the mixture into a lined baking dish and refrigerate until set.
- Cut and Serve . Once firm, cut the fudge into squares and serve.
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Peanut Butter Fudge | Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup Creamy Peanut Butter
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 2 cups Powdered Sugar
- 1/4 tsp Kosher Salt
Instructions
- Mix the Ingredients . Start by melting the peanut butter and butter together in a saucepan until it comes to a simmer. Remove from the heat. Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Combine with Powdered Sugar . Gradually add powdered sugar to the peanut butter mixture until well combined and smooth.
- Set the Fudge . Spread the mixture into a lined baking dish and refrigerate until set.
- Cut and Serve . Once firm, cut the fudge into squares and serve.
Peanut Butter Fudge | Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe https://twosleevers.com/peanut-butter-fudge/
Satisfy your sweet tooth with our delectable Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies recipe. These delightful treats combine the buttery richness of shortbread cookies with a burst of tangy raspberry jam in every bite. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just craving something sweet, these cookies are a must-try.
Why You’ll Love This Fruit-Flavored Dessert
- Irresistible Flavor . The combination of buttery cookie dough and sweet-tart raspberry jam creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible.
- Easy to Make . Impress your family and friends with this beautiful dessert that is surprisingly easy to whip up. They make a great addition to any cookie platter.
- Versatile . Customize your thumbprint cookies with different fruit jams or preserves to suit your taste preferences. Apricot, strawberry, or blackberry are excellent alternatives to raspberry.
With their delightful crumbly texture and vibrant raspberry centers, these thumbprint cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion.
Why Are They Called Thumbprint Cookies?
Thumbprint cookies are called “thumbprint cookies” because of the distinctive method used to create a well or indentation in the center of each cookie. Typically, a thumb or the back of a spoon is gently pressed into the dough to make this signature thumbprint shape.
Why Do My Thumbprint Cookies Spread?
Ensuring that your thumbprint cookies maintain their shape and don’t overspread during baking requires proper preparation and careful steps. Here are some things to take into consideration before getting started:
- Chilled Dough . After mixing the cookie dough, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. Chilled dough spreads less while baking, resulting in cookies with a better shape.
- Create Thumbprints Carefully . Use your thumb or the back of a measuring spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie. Be gentle to avoid cracking the dough.
- Preheat Your Oven . Make sure your oven is fully preheated to the specified temperature before placing the cookies inside. This helps them set quickly and hold their shape.
Why Is My Thumbprint Cookie Dough Crumbly?
If your thumbprint cookie dough is crumbly, there are several possible reasons for this issue. Here are some common factors and solutions to help you achieve the ideal cookie dough consistency:
- Dry Ingredients Ratio . One of the most common reasons for crumbly cookie dough is an incorrect ratio of dry ingredients, particularly flour. If you added too much flour, the dough can become dry and crumbly. Solution - To fix this, try adding a small amount of liquid (such as milk or water) to the dough, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
- Overmixing . Overmixing the cookie dough can lead to a crumbly texture. Excessive mixing can develop gluten, which can result in a dry and tough cookie. Solution - Mix the dough only until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing should be avoided. Once the ingredients are integrated, stop mixing.
- Insufficient Binding Agent . The egg or egg yolk in the dough acts as a binding agent. If you didn’t use enough egg or egg yolk, the dough can be crumbly. Solution . Check the recipe and make sure you added the correct amount of eggs or egg yolks. If needed, add an extra yolk or a small amount of beaten egg to improve the dough’s consistency.
- Overworking the Dough . If you knead or handle the dough excessively, it can become crumbly. Thumbprint cookies are typically delicate and should not be overworked. Solution - Handle the dough gently when shaping the cookies. Avoid kneading or pressing it too much.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Butter - Unsalted butter is the base of these cookies, providing richness and flavor.
- Granulated Sugar - Adds sweetness to the cookie dough.
- Egg Yolk - The yolk contributes to the tender texture of the cookies.
- Vanilla Extract - Infuses a delightful vanilla aroma and flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour - The main dry ingredient for the cookie dough.
- Salt - Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
- Raspberry Jam - Fills the thumbprints with fruity goodness.
- Powdered Sugar - For a dusting of sweetness on top.
How To Make Thumbprint Cookies
- Prepare the Cookie Dough . Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg yolk and vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the flour and salt until the dough forms.
- Chill the Dough . Wrap the cookie dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes.
- Shape and Fill . Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet. Make an indentation in each cookie with your thumb or the back of a measuring spoon. Fill each indentation with raspberry jam.
- Bake to Perfection . Bake the cookies in a preheated oven until they’re golden brown around the edges.
- Cool and Enjoy . Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Tips And Tricks
Creating the perfect Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies can be a delightful baking experience. Here are some tips and tricks to help you make these delicious cookies with ease and precision:
- Softened Butter . Ensure that your butter is softened to room temperature before using it in the cookie dough. This makes it easier to cream with sugar and results in a smoother dough.
- Chill the Dough . After mixing the cookie dough, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. Chilled dough is less likely to spread during baking, helping your cookies maintain their shape.
- Consistent Cookie Sizes . Keep the cookie sizes consistent to ensure even baking. Using a cookie scoop can help with this.
Variations
Thumbprint cookies are incredibly versatile, and you can get creative with various flavor combinations and fillings. Here are some delightful variations to try:
- Strawberry- Swap out the raspberry jam for strawberry jam or preserves for a different fruity twist.
- Chocolate- Fill the thumbprints with chocolate ganache or Nutella for a rich and indulgent treat.
- Cherry -Use cherry jam or cherry preserves for a sweet and vibrant filling.
- Cream Cheese and Fruit- Combine cream cheese with your choice of fruit preserves for a creamy and fruity center.
What To Enjoy With Thumbprint Cookies
These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can enhance your serving by pairing them with:
- Tea or Coffee - Enjoy these cookies with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a comforting treat.
- Ice Cream - Serve Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies alongside vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Milk - Dunking these cookies in a glass of cold milk is a classic choice.
Should You Refrigerate Thumbprint Cookies?
Thumbprint cookies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for a few days, usually up to a week, without the need for refrigeration.
If your thumbprint cookies have a highly perishable filling, such as fresh fruit or dairy-based fillings like cream cheese or custard, it’s advisable to refrigerate them to prevent spoilage and foodborne illnesses.
Can You Freeze Them?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies for up to three months. Make sure they’re well wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
More Of OurBest Cookie Recipes
- Almond Flour Cookies
- Keto Ginger Cookies
- Low Carb Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Cookie Dough Bites
- Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookies
Thumbprint Cookies Recipe | Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies
Ingredients
- ▢ 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter , softened
- ▢ 1/3 cup Granulated Sugar
- ▢ 1 Egg Yolk
- ▢ 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- ▢ 1 1/4 cup All Purpose Flour
- ▢ 1/4 tsp Salt
- ▢ 1/3 cup Raspberry Preserves
- ▢ Powdered Sugar , for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Cookie Dough . Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg yolk and vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the flour and salt until the dough forms.
- Chill the Dough . Wrap the cookie dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes.
- Shape and Fill . Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet. Make an indentation in each cookie with your thumb or the back of a measuring spoon. Fill each indentation with raspberry jam.
- Bake to Perfection . Bake the cookies in a preheated oven until they’re golden brown around the edges.
- Cool and Enjoy . Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
