Description
How to make Simple Joy, a luscious stovetop fudge with rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter, that comes together quickly and will delight everyone.
Ingredients
Scale
- Fudge Base & Sweeteners:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated)
- Core Flavors & Texture:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (7-ounce) jar marshmallow fluff
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- Flavor Enhancers:
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ½ teaspoon espresso powder
- Optional Toppings:
- ½ cup chopped roasted peanuts (optional)
- ½ teaspoon flaky sea salt, for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions
- Melt Base: Combine butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and condensed milk in a large saucepan. Melt over medium heat, stirring until sugars dissolve. Bring to a rolling boil for 5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. This creamy base is crucial for your Simple Joy.
- Add Flavors: Remove the boiling sugar mixture from heat. Immediately stir in peanut butter, chocolate chips, marshmallow fluff, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, sea salt, and espresso powder. Stir vigorously until everything is fully melted and smooth.
- Beat Smooth: Continue beating the mixture with a wooden spoon or a stand mixer until it’s perfectly smooth and glossy. Ensure no lumps remain, achieving a beautiful, even consistency. This guarantees the signature melt-in-your-mouth texture for your Simple Joy.
- Pour & Set: Quickly pour the hot fudge into a greased and parchment-lined 9×13 inch pan. Use a spatula to spread evenly. If desired, sprinkle with chopped roasted peanuts and flaky sea salt. This creates a delightful crust for your Simple Joy.
- Chill Fudge: Let the fudge cool completely at room temperature for several hours, or chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours until firm. Once set, lift the parchment paper to remove the fudge. Cut into 16 squares.
- Serve & Enjoy: Arrange your delicious Simple Joy squares on a platter and serve! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Get ready for pure happiness with every bite of this Simple Joy.
Notes
Stir constantly during the 5-minute boil and beat until smooth to prevent scorching or a grainy texture.
Store Simple Joy in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days to maintain its creamy texture.
Always use sweetened condensed milk, not evaporated milk; evaporated milk will prevent your fudge from setting properly.
Serve at room temperature for optimal creamy texture, paired wonderfully with coffee, milk, or vanilla ice cream.
Make Simple Joy up to a week ahead at room temperature, or refrigerate for two weeks; serve at room temperature.
**Allergy Information:** Dairy, Peanuts, Soy