Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge

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Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Pan:
  • Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment or foil if needed.
  1. Cook the Mixture:
  • In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, butter, and milk. Place over medium heat and stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil.
  • Once boiling, continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches the soft-ball stage (234°F to 240°F or 112°C to 115°C) on a candy thermometer.
  1. Add Peanut Butter:
  • Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the creamy peanut butter until fully incorporated. If using, add the salt at this stage.
  1. Flavor It:
  • Stir in the vanilla extract.
  1. Pour and Set:
  • Immediately pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
  1. Cool and Cut:
  • Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature until set, about 2-3 hours. For faster setting, you can refrigerate it for about an hour.
  • Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment or foil overhang. Cut into squares.
  1. Store:
  • Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or refrigerate for longer shelf life

History of Peanut Butter Fudge

Peanut butter fudge has a history rooted in the broader tradition of American candy-making, which evolved significantly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Origins of Fudge:

  • Fudge itself originated in the United States in the late 19th century. The first known recipe for fudge appeared in a cookbook published in 1886 by Emelyn Battersby Hartridge. Fudge was a confection that initially gained popularity among college students and at social events.

Introduction of Peanut Butter:

  • Peanut butter became widely available in the early 20th century. While peanuts had been cultivated and consumed in various forms for centuries, it was in 1904 at the St. Louis World’s Fair that peanut butter was introduced to the public as a creamy, spreadable food product.

Combining Peanut Butter and Fudge:

  • The combination of peanut butter and fudge likely emerged in the mid-20th century as peanut butter’s popularity soared and home cooking became a more prominent pastime. Peanut butter fudge takes advantage of the creamy texture and nutty flavor of peanut butter, adding a new dimension to traditional fudge.

Cultural Impact:

  • Peanut butter fudge has become a staple in American candy traditions, especially popular during holidays and as homemade gifts. Its rich flavor and ease of preparation make it a favorite among both novice and experienced cooks.

Today, peanut butter fudge is cherished for its creamy texture and sweet, nutty flavor, representing a blend of historical American candy-making with the beloved taste of peanut butter.

Enjoy your rich, creamy peanut butter fudge!

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