Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Fudge

Prepare yourself for the most amazing fudge of your LIFE. This Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Fudge is extra creamy, extra decadent, and the perfect addition to any festivities. Share with a chocolate and peanut butter lover today!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just a few minutes, making it perfect for last-minute dessert cravings.
• Decadent Flavor: The blend of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for parties, holidays, or simply as a sweet indulgence at home. It fits any occasion!
• No Baking Required: With no oven involved, you can skip the heat and still enjoy delicious homemade fudge.
• Makes a Large Batch: This recipe yields 64 pieces, making it great for sharing with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Fudge, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8 x 8-inch baking pan
• Aluminum foil
• Microwave-safe bowls
• Rubber spatula or spoon
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• 8 x 8-inch baking pan: The right size ensures even thickness for your fudge.
• Microwave-safe bowls: These allow you to melt ingredients quickly without burning them.
• Rubber spatula or spoon: Perfect for mixing and scraping every delicious bit from the bowl.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Fudge, gather the following ingredients:

• 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk (divided)
• 2 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 10 ounces peanut butter chips
• 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
• 8 ounces cream cheese (divided)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (divided)

How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Fudge

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

1. Line an 8 x 8-inch baking pan with aluminum foil.
2. Lightly grease the foil with butter or cooking spray. Set aside.

Step 2: Combine Chocolate Ingredients

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine half of the sweetened condensed milk (7 oz), chocolate chips, and 1 tablespoon of butter.
2. In another microwave-safe bowl, mix the remaining sweetened condensed milk (7 oz), peanut butter chips, and the remaining tablespoon of butter.

Step 3: Melt Mixtures

1. Place both bowls in the microwave.
2. Cook on high heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until chips are melted and mixtures are smooth.

Step 4: Add Cream Cheese and Vanilla

1. Stir 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 4 ounces of cream cheese into each bowl until melted and smooth.
2. Microwave both bowls again for 30 seconds on high heat if needed. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Layer Your Fudge

1. Pour two-thirds of the chocolate mixture into the prepared pan.
2. Spoon half of the peanut butter mixture on top of the chocolate layer.
3. Spoon over the remaining chocolate mixture followed by the rest of the peanut butter mixture.

Step 6: Create Swirls & Chill

1. Use a knife to drag through the fudge to create swirls.
2. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.
3. Store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delicious Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Fudge!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Fudge

Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Fudge can be enjoyed in many ways, making it a versatile treat for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your fudge experience.

For a Festive Dessert Table

• Slice into squares: Cut the fudge into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter for easy sharing.
• Garnish with toppings: Consider adding crushed peanuts or chocolate shavings on top for an extra touch of flavor and texture.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm: Heat up a piece of fudge slightly and place it over a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Create a sundae: Layer pieces of fudge, ice cream, whipped cream, and your favorite toppings in a bowl for an indulgent sundae.

As Party Favors

• Wrap individually: Cut the fudge into squares and wrap each piece in cellophane for guests to take home as sweet party favors.
• Label with flavors: Attach little tags describing the flavors to add a personal touch.

Pairing with Beverages

• With coffee: Enjoy a piece of fudge alongside your morning coffee or afternoon espresso for a delightful pick-me-up.
• Crafted smoothies: Blend small pieces of fudge into smoothies for a rich, creamy texture.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Fudge

Achieving the perfect Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Fudge is all about precision and technique. Here are some tips to help you master this delicious recipe.

• Use quality ingredients: Opt for high-quality chocolate and peanut butter chips for the best flavor.
• Microwave in intervals: Melt your ingredients in short bursts, stirring frequently to avoid overheating and burning the chocolate.
• Cool completely before cutting: Allow the fudge to fully set in the refrigerator before slicing to ensure clean cuts and defined layers.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add vanilla bean or sea salt to elevate the taste profile of your fudge.
• Store properly: Keep leftover fudge sealed in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Fudge

Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Fudge pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the fudge.
2. Chocolate Chip Cookies – Classic cookies provide an additional chewy texture that pairs well with the creamy fudge.
3. Cheesecake Bites – Mini cheesecake portions echo the cheesecake flavor of the fudge while adding variety.
4. Nutty Granola Bars – Crunchy granola bars introduce wholesome elements that balance out the decadence of the fudge.
5. Coffee Cake Slices – Lightly sweet, moist coffee cake adds another layer of flavor while being an enjoyable pairing with coffee.
6. Homemade Whipped Cream – A dollop of freshly whipped cream enhances both presentation and taste when served alongside the fudge.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make sure your Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Fudge turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the greasing step: Not greasing your baking pan can lead to a sticky mess. Always lightly grease the pan or line it with foil to ensure easy removal.
• Overheating chocolate: Melting chocolate too quickly can cause it to seize. Use short intervals in the microwave and stir often to achieve a smooth consistency.
• Neglecting the cream cheese: If cream cheese isn’t at room temperature, it may not blend smoothly. Soften it beforehand for a creamy fudge texture.
• Not swirling enough: Skipping the swirling step can result in layers that don’t mix well. Be sure to drag a knife through all layers for a beautiful marbled effect.
• Rushing the refrigeration: Cutting into the fudge too soon will lead to a soft texture. Allow it to chill in the fridge for at least three hours for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Keep it away from strong-smelling foods as fudge can absorb odors.

Freezing Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Fudge

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing in an airtight container.
• It can be frozen for up to three months without losing flavor.

Reheating Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Fudge

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 10-second intervals until just warm; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place fudge in a pan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Fudge.

How do I make Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Fudge dairy-free?

You can substitute regular cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut milk or almond milk-based sweetened condensed milk.

Can I use different types of chocolate?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips based on your taste preference.

How long does it take to set?

The fudge needs at least three hours in the refrigerator to fully set and firm up before cutting.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding chopped nuts, sprinkles, or even swirls of caramel sauce for added texture and flavor!

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure you have a larger baking dish and adjust your cooking time if necessary.

Final Thoughts

This Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Fudge is not only indulgent but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite nuts or toppings. Whether for celebrations or personal treats, this fudge will surely impress everyone who tries it. Don’t hesitate to whip up this delicious dessert today!