Holiday Peanut Butter Fudge

cheesygiraffe's Note:

This is the go to fudge I like to make during the holidays.

• Total Time: 2 hrs 10 mins
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 2 hrs

Ingredients:

Yield: 2.5 pounds

• 2 1/2 cups sugar
• 1/4 cup butter
• 5 ounces evaporated milk
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 7 ounces marshmallow creme
• 1 cup peanut butter chip
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional

• 1/2 cup chopped nuts

Directions:

1. Line a 9"x9" baking pan with aluminum foil; butter lightly and set aside.
2. Combine sugar, butter, evaporated milk and salt in a large heavy saucepan.
3. Cook over medium heat until sugar dissolves, stirring occasionally; bring to a full rolling boil.
4. Reduce heat slightly. Boil, stirring constantly, for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
5. Add peanut butter, marshmallow creme, peanut butter chips and vanilla; beat until well mixed. Stir in nuts, if using.
6. Spread in prepared pan; chill for 2 to 3 hours, until firm.
7. Lift fudge from pan; peel off foil and cut into squares.
8. Chocolate Variation -- To make a chocolate fudge, use 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips instead of the peanut butter chips and the peanut butter.