3-INGREDIENT PEANUT BUTTER FUDGE

3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge sounds too good to be true, right? But what if I told you that velvety smooth, melt-in-your-mouth fudge could be yours with just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort? The question isn’t *if* it’s possible, but *how* to achieve foolproof results every single time.

Decoding the Delight: The Science of Simple Fudge

The magic of this fudge lies in the interplay of its three components: peanut butter, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. The sweetened condensed milk acts as the base, providing sweetness and a creamy texture thanks to its concentrated milk solids and sugar. Peanut butter contributes richness, flavor, and structure. Crucially, the fat in the peanut butter helps to prevent the fudge from becoming overly hard or grainy. Vanilla extract, while seemingly minor, enhances the overall flavor profile and adds a touch of sophistication. The science here is about creating a stable emulsion. The fat from the peanut butter needs to be properly incorporated into the sugar and milk solids of the condensed milk. Too much heat, or improper mixing, and the emulsion can break, leading to a grainy or oily fudge. This is why careful melting and gentle stirring are critical.

The 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe

Key Equipment:

• Microwave-safe bowl
• 8×8 inch baking dish
• Parchment paper

Ingredients:

• 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 (16 ounce) jar creamy peanut butter (not natural)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and peanut butter.
3. Microwave on medium power (50%) for 1 minute. Stir well.
4. Microwave for another 30 seconds on medium power. Stir again until smooth and completely combined. If needed, microwave in additional 15-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth. Be careful not to overheat.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
8. Lift the fudge out of the dish using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve.

Confessions of a Fudge Fanatic: My Quest for Perfection

My first few attempts at this recipe were, to put it mildly, disappointing. I was impatient. I cranked up the microwave power, thinking it would speed things up. Big mistake. The peanut butter seized, the fudge was greasy, and the texture was all wrong. Then, I had an “Aha!” moment: low and slow is the way to go. Reducing the microwave power and using shorter bursts of heating allowed the peanut butter and condensed milk to meld together properly. Another challenge was the peanut butter itself. Like many of you, I initially thought natural peanut butter would be a healthier option. However, the oil separation inherent in natural peanut butter created a grainy texture in the final product. Switching to a stabilized, commercially processed peanut butter made a world of difference. It provided the perfect balance of fat and solids for a smooth, creamy fudge. I even experimented with chilling times. Two hours? Not nearly enough for a truly firm fudge. Overnight refrigeration is the key to achieving that perfect, sliceable consistency. Finally, I played around with add-ins. A sprinkle of sea salt on top adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness. But honestly, the simplicity of the original recipe is what makes it so appealing. If you love dips, be sure to check out this Caramel Apple Cheesecake Dip! Looking for something fruity? This Blueberry Lemon Dump Cake is a winner!

The Foolproof Fudge Formula: A Bulletproof Technique

After countless batches, tweaks, and taste tests, I’ve distilled the process down to a simple, reliable technique. Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying perfect 3-ingredient peanut butter fudge in no time.

1. Embrace Low and Slow: Microwave on medium power (50%) in short intervals (1 minute, then 30 seconds, then 15 seconds), stirring thoroughly after each. This prevents the peanut butter from seizing and ensures even melting.
2. Choose the Right Peanut Butter: Opt for a stabilized, commercially processed creamy peanut butter. Avoid natural peanut butters due to their oil separation issues.
3. Patience is Paramount: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to firm up completely.
4. Parchment Paper is Your Friend: Line your baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang. This makes removing the fudge a breeze.
5. Vanilla Makes a Difference: Don’t skip the vanilla extract. It enhances the overall flavor and adds a touch of sophistication.

So there you have it – a simple recipe, a little science, and a proven technique for making the easiest and most delicious peanut butter fudge imaginable. This fudge is perfect any time of year, but if you want to add another easy dessert to your holiday baking you should try these STRAWBERRY BARS. Now go forth and fudge!