Chocolate and Peanut Butter Fudge Cut Outs

Alton Brown's Peanut Butter Fudge

Ingredients

• 8 ounces unsalted butter, plus more for greasing pan
• 1 cup smooth peanut butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pound powdered sugar (1/2 bag)

Directions

Combine the butter and peanut butter in a  microwave-safe bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Microwave for 2 minutes on high. Stir and microwave on high for 2 more minutes. (Use caution when removing this mixture from the microwave, it will be very hot.) Add the vanilla and powdered sugar to the peanut butter mixture and stir to combine. The mixture will become hard to stir and lose its sheen. Place parchment paper in a baking dish and spray with non-stick spray. If you want thicker fudge put in an 8x8 pan. For cut outs spread in a 13x9. Place in fridge or freezer to chill. 

                       

                                                         Chocolate Cream Cheese Fudge

• 6 ounces unsweetened chocolate
• 6 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 2 tsp heavy cream
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1.5 cups chopped nuts (optional)

Preparation:

1. Prepare an 8x8 pan by lining it with aluminum foil and spraying the foil with nonstick cooking spray. or a 9x 13 for cut outs.

2. Chop the chocolate into even pieces with a large knife. Place the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave until melted, stirring after every 30 seconds to prevent overheating.

3. Place the softened cream cheese and the heavy cream in the bowl of a large stand mixer and beat with the paddle attachment until smooth. (Alternately, a hand mixer can be used.)

4. Stop the mixer, add the melted chocolate, and beat until well-mixed. Stop the mixer again and add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until the fudge is smooth and well-combined. Stir in the nuts by hand, if you’re using them.

5. Pour the fudge into the prepared pan and spread it in an even layer. Let it set at room temperature for 2-3 hours, or in the refrigerator for 1 hour.

6. Once set, cut the fudge into small squares and serve at room temperature. Fudge may be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for several weeks.

                     You can decorate as shown with either chocolate drizzled or colored white chocolate.