Vegan Chocolate & Peanut Butter Fudge – Perfect for Gifting
When it comes to homemade gifts, there's something extra special about presenting loved ones with delicious, handcrafted treats. This Vegan Chocolate & Peanut Butter Fudge is a perfect gift for any occasion—birthdays, holidays, or just to brighten someone's day. Not only is it easy to make, but it's also a rich and decadent dessert that showcases the magic of vegan ingredients. The smooth combination of peanut butter and dark chocolate creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience, and the added peanuts provide a satisfying crunch. Plus, it's the kind of sweet treat that’s sure to impress, without anyone even realizing it’s dairy-free! Wrap these fudge squares in parchment paper and tie them with a ribbon for a thoughtful, homemade gift that feels personal and indulgent.
Did You Know?
Peanut butter isn't just for sandwiches—it's a powerhouse ingredient in vegan desserts. Packed with protein and healthy fats, it adds a creamy texture and rich flavor to sweets without needing dairy. When paired with dark chocolate, peanut butter's natural sweetness and slightly salty taste create a delectable balance. This combination is also packed with antioxidants and essential minerals. In this Vegan Chocolate & Peanut Butter Fudge, the natural oils in peanut butter help create a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture that's entirely dairy-free. So next time you're whipping up a vegan dessert, consider the magic of peanut butter!
Recipe:
Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients:
For the Fudge:
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (dairy-free)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup coconut butter or coconut oil
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
- 1/2 cup peanuts
Instructions:
Prepare the Pan:
Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
Melt the Chocolate:
Using a Double Boiler:
- Fill a medium saucepan with about an inch or two of water. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
- Place a heatproof bowl on top of the saucepan. Ensure the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water.
- Add the dark chocolate chips and coconut butter (or oil) to the bowl. Stir continuously until completely melted and smooth.
- Be careful not to let any water or steam get into the chocolate.
OR In a Microwave:
- Combine dark chocolate chips and coconut butter (or oil) in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.
Personal Tip: Stir the chocolate gently to prevent any separation.
Combine Ingredients:
Stir in the peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, peanuts, and sea salt until well combined.
Personal Tip: Make sure the peanut butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
Pour and Set:
Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Personal Tip: Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
Chill:
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is firm and set.
Cut and Serve:
Use the parchment overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan. Cut into 16 squares.
Personal Tip: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for cleaner slices.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories, 150; Fat, 12g; Saturated Fat, 6g; Carbohydrates, 13g; Fiber, 2g; Sugars, 8g; Protein, 3g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
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1. Buy in Bulk:
Purchasing ingredients like dark chocolate chips, peanut butter, and coconut oil in bulk is a great way to save money. These items have a long shelf life, making them perfect for stockpiling. Not only does buying in bulk reduce the cost per unit, but it also ensures you always have the key components for your favorite vegan desserts on hand. Keep these pantry staples in cool, dry places to extend their shelf life. If you're lucky enough to find them on sale, buying in bulk becomes an even better bargain, giving you significant savings over time.2. Substitute Smartly:
Coconut butter can be pricey or difficult to find in some areas, but don't let that stop you from making delicious vegan fudge. Coconut oil is an excellent substitute for coconut butter in most recipes and is often more affordable. It has a similar consistency when solidified and will give you the same creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture in desserts. You can also use other plant-based oils, such as avocado oil, for similar results, although they may slightly alter the flavor. Choose the most cost-effective option based on availability.3. Use Seasonal Ingredients:
When you're adding mix-ins or toppings to your fudge or other desserts, using seasonal fruits or nuts can help keep your recipe budget-friendly. Seasonal produce is often fresher, more flavorful, and less expensive than out-of-season items. For example, in the summer, you could add fresh berries to your fudge, while in the fall, chopped apples or pears might be a delightful addition. Using what's in season ensures you're getting the best flavor and price.4. Homemade Ingredients:
Consider making your own peanut butter or coconut butter at home using a food processor. This is not only cost-effective, but it also allows you to control the ingredients and avoid unnecessary additives found in store-bought versions. To make peanut butter, simply blend roasted peanuts until they turn into a smooth, creamy texture. For coconut butter, blend shredded coconut until it becomes smooth and creamy. Both of these homemade versions are easy to make and store well.5. Reusable Baking Essentials:
Investing in reusable silicone baking mats, parchment paper, and containers is a smart choice for eco-conscious bakers. These reusable tools save money over time, as you won't need to constantly buy disposable options. Silicone mats are easy to clean, non-stick, and help reduce waste in your kitchen. Plus, they can be used for a variety of baking tasks beyond fudge-making, making them a worthwhile investment for any home baker.6. Energy Efficiency:
When melting chocolate for your fudge, using a microwave instead of a double boiler can save both time and energy. Be sure to microwave the chocolate in short intervals (about 30 seconds), stirring between each, to prevent burning. This method uses less electricity and is quicker than heating water for a double boiler. Additionally, if you're making multiple batches or other desserts that require refrigeration, do it all at once to maximize the energy efficiency of your fridge.7. Maximize Shelf Life:
Proper storage of ingredients like chocolate chips and peanut butter is key to preventing spoilage and maximizing their shelf life. Store chocolate chips in a cool, dark place to prevent them from melting or blooming (when the cocoa fat rises to the surface). Peanut butter should also be kept in a cool place, especially if it’s the natural kind that can separate. Keeping your ingredients fresh means you can use them for longer, reducing waste and the need for replacements.8. Get Creative with Leftovers:
Don’t let any leftover fudge go to waste! Leftover pieces can be crumbled over vegan ice cream for a delightful topping or blended into a smoothie for an extra indulgent treat. You can also mix fudge pieces into other vegan dessert recipes like cookies, brownies, or even energy bites. By repurposing leftovers, you minimize waste and get creative with your treats.9. Online Tutorials:
There’s a wealth of free online resources available for learning new vegan dessert techniques and recipes. Explore video tutorials, recipe blogs, and forums where experienced bakers share tips and tricks. This not only helps improve your skills but also introduces you to new methods and ideas that don’t require expensive cookbooks or classes.10. Share and Swap:
Join local or online vegan communities where you can swap recipes, share ideas, and even trade ingredients. Engaging in these communities can be a fantastic way to discover budget-friendly ingredients, learn new techniques, and get feedback on your creations. It’s a fun way to stay motivated, make connections, and save money by discovering affordable cooking tips from others who share your passion for vegan baking.
Let’s Learn About Coconut Butter & Oil
Coconut butter and coconut oil are popular ingredients in vegan cooking, both offering rich flavor and smooth textures. Coconut oil is extracted from the meat of the coconut and is solid at room temperature, while coconut butter includes the flesh of the coconut, giving it a thicker, creamier consistency. When purchasing these products, check for labels that say "unrefined" or "virgin" for the highest quality. Refined versions are more processed and may lack some of the coconut's natural flavor. Whether you choose coconut oil or butter, they both provide healthy fats, including medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are easily absorbed by the body for energy.