If you’re craving something rich, indulgent, and just a little bit boozy, you’re in for a treat with this Kahlua Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe. I absolutely love this fudge because it blends creamy peanut butter with luscious chocolate and the subtle coffee kick from Kahlua—it’s like a party for your taste buds in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or to impress friends at your next gathering, you’ll find this fudge recipe totally addictive and surprisingly easy to whip up. Keep reading because I’m sharing all the tips and tricks to help you nail it perfectly on your first try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: The Kahlua adds a smooth coffee undertone that pairs beautifully with peanut butter and chocolate.
- Easy to Make: Despite its fancy flavor profile, this fudge comes together quickly without complicated steps or special equipment.
- Textural Delight: Chopped roasted peanuts and swirls of melted chocolate create a satisfying crunch and creamy finish.
- Great for Gifting: Makes a lovely homemade gift for holidays, birthdays, or anytime you want to spread some sweet love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This fudge owes its rich, decadent texture to a handful of simple ingredients that work harmoniously. Using good quality chocolate really makes a difference here, and the sweetened condensed milk keeps the fudge luxuriously smooth. When shopping, pick roasted salted peanuts for that extra pop of flavor.
- Semi-sweet chocolate: Using chopped pieces melts evenly, helping you avoid burnt bits.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Key for that creamy fudge texture without needing butter or cream.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and balances the chocolate’s bitterness.
- Sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and contrasts the sweetness perfectly.
- Kahlua: The star ingredient bringing that smooth coffee and vanilla flavor.
- Roasted salted peanuts: Adds crunch and savory notes to break up the richness.
- Milk chocolate: Chopped as a crunchy topping to layer flavors and textures.
- Dark chocolate: Melted and poured as a glossy top layer that adds a deep chocolate finish.
- Peanut butter chips: Melted and drizzled on top to lock in loose bits and add peanut butter goodness.
Variations
I love how flexible this Kahlua Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe is—once you master the base, it’s easy to customize depending on your mood or pantry stash. Feel free to experiment to really make it your own!
- Make it Nut-Free: Swap peanuts for toasted coconut flakes or crushed pretzels if you or your guests have nut allergies—I tried coconut once and it added a lovely chewiness.
- Double the Kahlua: For an extra boozy kick, I’ve occasionally doubled the Kahlua, but be careful as too much can affect setting time.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free chocolate and coconut condensed milk to make this suitable for lactose intolerant friends—worked well for a get-together I hosted!
- Add Espresso Powder: Enhance the coffee notes by adding a teaspoon of espresso powder along with the vanilla for a mocha twist.
How to Make Kahlua Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Melt Chocolate with Condensed Milk and Flavorings
Grab a double boiler, or set a heatproof bowl over simmering water, and melt your semi-sweet chocolate slowly—this is crucial to avoid burning. Once melted and silky smooth, remove from heat and stir in sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and sea salt. The mixture will get quite thick—don’t worry, that’s exactly right! Slowly add the Kahlua one tablespoon at a time, folding gently but thoroughly between each addition. The mixture will firm up even more but keep stirring carefully to keep everything evenly blended. When you’re happy with the consistency, pour or spoon it into your prepared 8×8 pan and spread it as evenly as you can with a spatula. It’ll be thick and sticky, but that makes for the best fudge texture! Pop it in the fridge for about 10 minutes to set.
Step 2: Add the Dark Chocolate Layer and Toppings
While the fudge is chilling, melt your dark chocolate either in a microwave in short bursts or in a clean double boiler. When the base layer is firm, take it out of the fridge and immediately pour the melted dark chocolate over the top. Use the back of a spoon to spread it quickly and evenly before it cools and sets. Now here’s the fun part: sprinkle the chopped roasted salted peanuts and milk chocolate chunks generously over the dark chocolate layer while it’s still wet—this will help them stick and distribute flavor. Lastly, melt your peanut butter chips and drizzle them artistically across the surface. This not only looks gorgeous but also seals in any stray nuts or chocolate pieces. Back into the fridge it goes for about 30 minutes more until completely set.
Step 3: Cut and Enjoy
Once your fudge has fully chilled and set, take a sharp knife and cut it into squares—whatever size you like. I find warming the knife slightly under hot water and wiping it dry before cutting gives the cleanest edges without sticking. Now it’s time for the best part: tasting. Each bite is a wonderful balance of creamy, crunchy, sweet, salty, and boozy notes that your family and friends will rave about.
Pro Tips for Making Kahlua Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
- Gentle Heat Only: Melting chocolate and chips slowly on low heat prevents graininess and burning.
- Incremental Kahlua: Adding Kahlua tablespoon by tablespoon keeps the fudge firm and prevents it from becoming too runny.
- Use a Sharp Knife: Warm the knife under hot water and dry it before cutting for neat squares without smudging.
- Quick Spreading: Move fast when spreading the dark chocolate and toppings to ensure everything sticks evenly.
How to Serve Kahlua Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
I usually keep garnishes simple but festive—extra chopped peanuts or a light dusting of sea salt on top adds a beautiful finishing touch that really amps up the flavor. For a little sparkle during holidays, edible gold flakes work like magic! When serving, I love pairing it with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement those rich flavors.
Side Dishes
Because this fudge is so rich, I think simple is best alongside it. A light fresh fruit platter with berries or sliced apples cuts through the richness perfectly. If you’re serving this at a party, coffee or espresso drinks pair beautifully and highlight the Kahlua’s coffee notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions like birthdays or holidays, I like to cut the fudge into bite-sized cubes and serve in mini paper cupcake liners. It makes grabbing a piece easy and adds a festive vibe. Another favorite is layering the fudge squares in pretty glass jars tied with ribbon—as a sweet gift or party favor. You can even create a fudge tower with alternating chocolate drizzle to wow your guests visually!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I keep leftover fudge stored in an airtight container in the fridge—it stays fresh and firm for up to two weeks. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper so pieces don’t stick together. When you want a quick treat, just pull a few squares out and let them come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving.
Freezing
I’ve frozen this fudge successfully by wrapping portions tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag or container. It freezes well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bring to room temperature before serving to preserve that perfect fudge texture.
Reheating
This fudge really shines cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t usually necessary. If you want to soften it slightly, let it sit at room temp for 15 to 20 minutes or pop it in a warm spot in the kitchen. Avoid microwaving as it can cause separation or graininess in the chocolate.
FAQs
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Can I make this Kahlua Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe without alcohol?
Absolutely! If you want to skip the alcohol, you can substitute Kahlua with an equal amount of strong brewed coffee or simply omit it. Just keep in mind that part of the signature flavor and slight boozy undertone will be missing, but the fudge will still be delicious and creamy.
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What’s the best way to melt chocolate without burning it?
I recommend melting chocolate using a double boiler or a heatproof bowl over simmering water, stirring frequently. If you prefer microwaving, heat the chocolate in short 20-30 second bursts and stir well between each session to avoid overheating. This keeps the chocolate smooth and shiny.
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How do I know when the fudge is set properly?
The fudge will firm up in the fridge after about 30 to 40 minutes. It should be solid but still soft to the touch—like classic fudge texture. If it’s too soft, give it more time to chill. If too hard, allow to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting.
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Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of chips?
You can try melting crunchy peanut butter as a drizzle, but it might be less smooth and more oily compared to peanut butter chips. I find peanut butter chips melt nicely and keep the fudge texture balanced, but using crunchy peanut butter adds an interesting texture if that’s what you have on hand.
Final Thoughts
This Kahlua Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe has become a favorite in my kitchen because it’s both impressive and achievable. I love how every bite feels like a little escape into chocolatey, peanut buttery heaven with a smooth coffee twist. If you’re looking for a special dessert that’s sure to wow but won’t stress you out, this fudge is your go-to. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again—and so will anyone lucky enough to taste it!
Print
Kahlua Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 20 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in rich, creamy Kahlua Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge—an irresistible treat combining semi-sweet and dark chocolate with a hint of coffee liqueur and crunchy roasted peanuts. This layered fudge features smooth peanut butter chips drizzled on top for an extra burst of flavor and texture, perfect for gifting or enjoying as a decadent dessert.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 20 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 (15-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 3 tablespoons Kahlua
Toppings
- 1/2 cup roasted salted peanuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup milk chocolate, chopped
- 4 ounces dark chocolate, melted
- 1/2 cup peanut butter chips, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Spray an 8×8-inch baking pan with non-stick spray to ensure easy removal of the fudge later.
- Melt and mix fudge base: Place the semi-sweet chocolate in a double boiler and melt completely over simmering water. Remove from heat and slowly stir in the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and sea salt using a large spatula until the mixture is thick and fully combined. Gradually fold in Kahlua, one tablespoon at a time. The mixture will become very thick, so stir slowly and fold the ingredients until evenly combined. Spread the thick chocolate mixture evenly in the prepared pan and refrigerate for 10 minutes to set.
- Add chocolate and peanut toppings: Melt the dark chocolate until smooth. Remove the pan from the fridge and pour the melted dark chocolate over the set fudge layer. Using the back of a spoon, spread the chocolate evenly over the top. Immediately sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts and chopped milk chocolate on top while the dark chocolate is still wet.
- Drizzle peanut butter: Melt the peanut butter chips until smooth. Drizzle the melted peanut butter evenly over the peanuts and chocolate toppings to help set the loose candy pieces. Refrigerate the fudge for about 30 minutes until fully set.
- Cut and serve: Once firm, use a sharp knife to cut the fudge into squares of your desired size. Serve chilled and enjoy this decadent treat!
Notes
- You can melt the chocolate in the microwave by heating in 30-second intervals, stirring after each until smooth.
- For easier cutting, let the fudge sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing.
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (about 1.5 inch square)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
