Candy Bar Fudge Chewy Chocolaty

This chewy and chocolaty candy bar fudge is my go to for family gatherings and holiday parties It delivers all the flavor and nostalgia of a classic candy bar with the bonus of easy prep and pantry basics

I first made this fudge after my manager passed along the recipe Now it is a most requested treat at my house and I rarely leave a party with leftovers

Ingredients

• Butter: makes the fudge creamy and rich Opt for real unsalted butter for best texture
• Baking cocoa: gives deep chocolate flavor Use a reputable brand for more intense taste
• Brown sugar: adds a chewy texture and subtle molasses note Choose dark brown sugar for even more depth
• Whole milk: helps create the smooth base Whole is key for richness
• Confectioners sugar: ensures a melt in your mouth texture Sift if yours is lumpy for the smoothest bite
• Vanilla extract: brings fragrant warmth Use pure vanilla extract for best flavor
• Caramels: provide chewy sweetness Kraft caramels melt smoothly
• Water: loosens the caramel so it spreads thick but easy
• Salted peanuts: add crunch and classic candy bar flavor Check freshness by tasting before adding
• Semisweet chocolate chips: deepen the chocolate taste Guittard or Ghirardelli melt smoothly
• Milk chocolate chips: bring a mellow sweetness and kid friendly finish Mixing brands can boost flavor

Step by Step Instructions

Make the Chocolate Base:

Melt butter cocoa brown sugar and milk in a microwave safe bowl Use high power for two minutes or until the mixture bubbles Stir well to fully dissolve the cocoa and sugar

Blend and Pour:

Stir in sifted confectioners sugar and vanilla extract Mix until totally smooth thick but pourable Scrape the chocolate base into a well greased eight inch square dish Spread into even corners

Prepare the Caramel Peanut Layer:

In a clean microwave bowl combine caramels and water Heat for seventy five seconds on high Stir until the caramels are glossy and no lumps remain Fold in peanuts quickly then gently spread this layer over the chocolate base

Finish with Chocolate:

Melt both kinds of chocolate chips together in the microwave for thirty seconds on high Stir until silky and then spread over the caramel layer for glossy coverage

Chill and Cut:

Refrigerate the pan until everything is firm usually about two hours Use a sharp knife to cut into one inch squares for perfect bite sized treats

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Peanuts are my favorite addition here Their crunch breaks up the sweet fudge just right I remember making this with my kids at Christmastime and letting them pour the nuts it always turned into a fun mess but the aroma of chocolate and caramel brought everyone in from the other room

Storage Tips

Store the fudge in airtight containers in the fridge for up to two weeks Layer with parchment so pieces do not stick together For longer keeping the fudge also freezes well just defrost in the fridge overnight before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap salted peanuts for roasted almonds or cashews for a twist Use dark chocolate chips for a more grown up flavor Dairy free butter and plant milk can work but the final texture may be softer

Serving Suggestions

Pile small pieces on a tray and drizzle with extra melted chocolate for special occasions This fudge pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or as a sweet finish to a game night

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Candy Bar Fudge Origins

Fudge recipes have roots in American confectionery The candy bar twist channels classic treats like Snickers and Baby Ruth giving you those nostalgic flavors without the need for complicated steps

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use different nuts instead of salted peanuts?

Yes, feel free to substitute salted peanuts with any nut of your choice such as almonds, cashews, or pecans for a different flavor and texture.

→ Is there a way to melt the chocolate without a microwave?

You can melt the chocolate chips on a stovetop using a double boiler, stirring constantly until smooth and glossy.

→ How long should the fudge chill before cutting?

Chill the fudge until it is set and firm, typically about two hours in the refrigerator for clean, even squares.

→ Can I store the fudge at room temperature?

The fudge keeps best refrigerated in an airtight container, but can be served at room temperature for a softer bite.

→ What if I don't have confectioners' sugar on hand?

It's best to use confectioners' sugar for a smooth texture, but if needed, finely pulse granulated sugar in a blender before using.