Nothing says “Happy Valentine’s Day” like chocolate! There are those who don’t care for it, I know, as we have several in our family who would gladly pass it up in favor of a salty snack. However, if you have a loved one who craves chocolate, Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to give that special someone the delicious, velvety treat. And, it doesn’t have to be an expensive, luxury box of sweets to please your chocoholic. There are plenty of chocolate delights that are just as tempting and delicious.
In fact, you can even whip up your own chocolate treat for your valentine this year, showing you much you really care and making the gift even more appreciated. And, for all those chocolate lovers out there, why not treat yourself to some chocolaty deliciousness while you’re at it?
I especially like this one-bowl, chocolate and peanut butter fudge recipe because it’s so quick and easy to make. It can be made in the microwave in just three minutes, but whoever you give this box of fudge to will think you spent an hour at the stove cooking and stirring it. The texture is so rich and creamy. Your loved one won’t be able to stop with just one piece!
QUICK AND EASY CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER FUDGE
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated)
1 (12-ounce) package semisweet chocolate pieces
1 (12-ounce) package peanut butter pieces
1/4 cup butter
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
Dash of salt
1/2 cup chopped peanuts, walnuts or pecans (optional)
Line an 8-by-8-by-2-inch baking pan with foil. Butter foil and set aside.
In medium microwave-safe bowl, combine milk, chocolate pieces, peanut butter pieces, butter, vanilla and salt. Microwave on high about 3 minutes or until smooth, stirring at the end of each minute.
Immediately spread in prepared pan. Sprinkle with chopped nuts, if desired. Gently press nuts into fudge. Cover and chill 4 to 8 hours or overnight until firm. Use foil to lift fudge out of pan; cut into squares. Store in refrigerator.
Makes as many as 64 small pieces or half as many larger squares.
Brotherton offers website readers one stellar recipe a week in the “My Leader Yummy” feature.
Looking for a recipe you can’t find? Email me at kbrotherton42@gmail.com and I’ll see if I have it.
