Divas on a Dime: Delectable Duo
By Patti Diamond
Fuss-Free Festivities: 3 No-Bake Peanut Butter Delights for the Holidays.
As the holidays approach, there's a certain magic in the air -- the warmth of twinkling lights, the aroma of cookies baking and the joy of creating sweet moments in the kitchen. Among the countless options for holiday recipes, there's a classic duo that is always popular: peanut butter and chocolate.
We're going to give the oven a break today as we craft three delightful and affordable no-bake wonders. These easy recipes are perfect for getting the whole family involved. Including children in holiday baking creates lasting memories and teaches valuable skills, making the kitchen a place for sharing time together and learning.
These recipes bring bliss to your taste buds without breaking the bank. Whether you choose to indulge in high-end nut butters and imported chocolate or opt for budget-friendly store-brand peanut butter and candy coating, the magic lies in the simplicity of each delectable treat.
The delectable duo of peanut butter and chocolate made easy. PHOTO CREDIT: www.JasonCoblentz.com
THE EASIEST PEANUT BUTTER FUDGE
Yield: 40 pieces
Total Time: 1 hour
4 cups granulated sugar
1 cup milk
2 cups peanut butter
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Line a 9-by-13 baking pan with parchment paper and set aside. In a heavy bottomed saucepan, set over medium heat, slowly bring milk and sugar to a boil. Boil for exactly 4 minutes, stirring constantly to dissolve the sugar into the milk. Over cooking leads to crumbly fudge. Remove from heat, stir in peanut butter, butter and vanilla until well incorporated and smooth. Pour into your prepared pan, let cool completely, then cut into delicious squares.
The following recipes require melted chocolate. Melting chocolate in the microwave is a quick and easy process. Break your chocolate into small, uniform pieces to ensure even melting. Place them in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 15-second intervals, stirring after each interval. This prevents overheating and maintains a smooth texture. Typically, it takes around 1 to 2 minutes, depending on the quantity and type of chocolate. Just be patient, stir well, and you'll be rewarded with silky smooth chocolate.
PEANUT BUTTER TRUFFLES
Yield: 90 pieces
Total Time: 1 hour
3 1/2 cups sifted powdered sugar
1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
8 tablespoons butter, softened
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon table salt
2 1/2 cups chocolate chips or chocolate candy coating
Mix powdered sugar, peanut butter, butter, vanilla and salt until well combined. Shape into 1-inch balls, placing them on waxed or parchment paper. Let balls stand for 20 minutes until firm. Melt chocolate according to directions. Using a fork or skewer, dip each ball in the chocolate and let them dry. Store covered in a cool, dry place.
NO-BAKE CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER COOKIES
Yield: 30 sandwich cookies
Total Time: 1 hour, 30 min
1 cup peanut butter
60 buttery crackers (such as Ritz, 2 sleeves)
2 1/2 cups chocolate chips or chocolate candy coating
Line a baking sheet with parchment or waxed paper. Spread a generous 1 teaspoon peanut butter onto half of the crackers, then top with the remaining crackers. Put them on your prepared baking sheet and refrigerate until firm (20-30 minutes). Melt chocolate according to directions. Dip each sandwich into chocolate to coat, and refrigerate until firm (about 30 minutes). Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Whether you're gifting these delights or savoring them with loved ones, remember that the joy of the holidays doesn't need to come with a hefty price tag. Wishing you Happy Holidays, and may your celebrations be both frugal and fabulous!
***
Lifestyle expert Patti Diamond is the penny-pinching, party-planning, recipe developer and content creator of the website Divas On A Dime -- Where Frugal, Meets Fabulous! Visit Patti at www.divasonadime.com and join the conversation on Facebook at DivasOnADimeDotCom. Email Patti at divapatti@divasonadime.com
(c) 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.