Ada’s Peanut Butter Fudge is a delightful and sweet treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate. Here’s all the information you requested:
What is Ada’s Peanut Butter Fudge?
Ada’s Peanut Butter Fudge is a type of confectionery made from a mixture of peanut butter, chocolate, sugar, and other ingredients. It has a creamy and melt-in-your-mouth texture, making it a favorite among those who enjoy the combination of peanut butter and chocolate flavors.
History:
The history of peanut butter fudge can be traced back to the early 20th century when peanut butter gained popularity in the United States. It’s believed that fudge itself has been around for centuries, but the addition of peanut butter likely emerged as a delicious variation in the 20th century.
Components:
The key components of Ada’s Peanut Butter Fudge typically include:
- Peanut Butter: Creamy or crunchy peanut butter can be used, depending on your preference.
- Chocolate: Usually, semi-sweet chocolate chips or cocoa powder are used to add a rich chocolate flavor.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar is essential for sweetness and texture.
- Butter: Unsalted butter helps create a creamy texture.
- Milk: A small amount of milk is often added for consistency.
- Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract enhances the flavor.
- Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness.
Steps to Prepare Ada’s Peanut Butter Fudge:
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Prepare Your Pan: Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
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Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of peanut butter, 1 cup of chocolate chips, 1 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup of milk, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until everything is melted and smooth.
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Cook to Soft-Ball Stage: Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. Cook the mixture until it reaches the soft-ball stage, which is around 235-240°F (113-116°C). This will take about 5-7 minutes.
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Remove from Heat: Once it reaches the soft-ball stage, remove the saucepan from the heat.
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Add Vanilla and Butter: Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until they are fully incorporated.
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Pour into Pan: Quickly pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
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Cool and Set: Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for a few hours or until it’s completely set.
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Cut and Serve: Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut it into squares or desired shapes.
Time Needed:
Preparing Ada’s Peanut Butter Fudge typically takes about 30-40 minutes, including cooking time, plus several hours for it to cool and set. The total time may vary depending on your experience and kitchen equipment.
Enjoy your homemade Ada’s Peanut Butter Fudge! It’s a delightful treat for any occasion.
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Ada’s Peanut Butter Fudge:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):
- Serving Size: 1 square (1/16th of the recipe)
- Calories: 180
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 60mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 19g
- Protein: 3g
Health Information:
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Caloric Content: Ada’s Peanut Butter Fudge is a calorie-dense treat. It’s important to consume it in moderation to avoid excess calorie intake, which can lead to weight gain if not balanced with a healthy diet and exercise.
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Fats: It contains a moderate amount of fats, mainly from peanut butter and chocolate. While peanut butter provides healthy monounsaturated fats, it’s still high in calories. Enjoy it as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily snack.
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Saturated Fat: The fudge has a small amount of saturated fat from the chocolate and butter. High intake of saturated fats can contribute to heart disease, so it’s advisable to consume such treats sparingly.
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Sugar: Ada’s Peanut Butter Fudge is relatively high in sugars due to the use of sugar and chocolate. Excessive sugar consumption may lead to weight gain and dental issues. Limit your overall sugar intake and enjoy this fudge as an occasional dessert.
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Protein: It provides a small amount of protein, mainly from peanut butter. Protein is essential for muscle and tissue repair, but this treat should not be relied upon as a significant protein source.
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Fiber: The fudge contains minimal fiber. A diet high in fiber is beneficial for digestive health, but this treat is not a significant source of dietary fiber.
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Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes. Consuming smaller portions can help you enjoy the flavor without consuming excessive calories, fats, and sugars.
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Nut Allergies: If you or anyone you’re serving has a peanut allergy, be cautious, as this recipe contains peanut butter, which can trigger severe allergic reactions.
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Balance: While Ada’s Peanut Butter Fudge is a delicious treat, it should be part of a balanced diet. Pair it with nutrient-rich foods and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Remember that nutrition facts can vary slightly based on the specific ingredients and brands used in the recipe, so it’s essential to check packaging labels for precise information. Enjoy this fudge as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily snack for a balanced approach to your diet.
