If you have a soft spot for rich, creamy sweets, you’re going to adore this Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of luscious peanut butter and just the right amount of sweetness, coming together in a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth treat that feels like a warm hug for your taste buds. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering, a quick afternoon pick-me-up, or just because, this fudge is wonderfully simple to prepare yet impressively decadent. Trust me, once you try this Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your go-to desserts to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe uses just a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating that silky texture and rich, nutty flavor. Keeping it simple means none of those complicated steps or hard-to-find items, and the combination you get is pure magic.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: Make sure to use creamy for that smooth texture; natural peanut butter may change the consistency.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps achieve the perfect fudge firmness without overpowering flavor.
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar: This sweetens the fudge while keeping it silky smooth – key for proper consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the fudge, enhancing the peanut butter’s natural flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional): A pinch of salt brightens the overall flavor, especially great if you prefer salted peanut butter fudge.
How to Make Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly greasing it. This step ensures your fudge will lift right out without sticking, making cleanup easier and your fudge presentation flawless.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Peanut Butter
Place the unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally as they melt together into a smooth, velvety mixture. This is where the magic begins – watch as two simple ingredients transform into the base of your fudge.
Step 3: Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla
Once fully melted and combined, remove the saucepan from heat. Quickly add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt if using, then stir vigorously. The mixture should become thick and smooth without lumps, signaling that your fudge base is perfectly ready for chilling.
Step 4: Pour and Chill
Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly. This ensures every square has the same luscious texture. Pop the pan into the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours. This is essential for the fudge to set up beautifully so it cuts cleanly.
Step 5: Cut and Serve
After the fudge has chilled and firmed up, carefully lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper edges. Cut into squares or rectangles as you like, then serve. The moment you taste one, you’ll fall in love with how creamy and peanut-buttery it truly is.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your peanut butter fudge, try sprinkling the top with crushed peanuts, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or a light dusting of sea salt. These garnishes add texture and a little flair, and they highlight the rich peanut butter flavor perfectly.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a cup of strong black coffee. The creamy sweetness contrasts beautifully with the bitterness and acidity of coffee, making each bite feel like a cozy indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
For gift-giving or parties, consider wrapping individual squares in colorful parchment paper tied with twine, or arranging them in a decorative tin with festive tissue paper. You can even layer the fudge between sheets of wax paper in a jar for a sweet homemade gift everyone will appreciate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover peanut butter fudge stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Just make sure it’s well covered to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors and to keep it from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to make this fudge ahead of time for a special occasion, it freezes really well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container. Frozen fudge maintains its flavor and texture for up to three months.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t usually needed for fudge, but if you prefer it softer, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can change the texture and make it grainy.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
While you certainly can, using crunchy peanut butter will add texture to your fudge. It won’t be as smooth, so if you prefer a creamy, classic fudge texture, stick with creamy peanut butter.
Is it necessary to use unsalted butter?
Unsalted butter gives you control over the saltiness of your fudge. If you use salted butter, consider skipping the added salt in the recipe to prevent it from becoming overly salty.
Can I substitute powdered sugar with granulated sugar?
This recipe relies on powdered sugar to provide smoothness and sweetness without grit. Granulated sugar would not dissolve properly and could make the fudge grainy, so it’s best to stick with powdered sugar.
How long does the fudge need to chill?
Chilling for at least 2 hours is crucial for the fudge to set firm and ready to cut. If you’re in a hurry, chilling a bit longer won’t hurt and will help the fudge firm up nicely.
Can I add other flavors or mix-ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to fold in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or swirl melted chocolate into the fudge before chilling. Just keep the base proportions the same for best results.
Final Thoughts
Making this Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe is an absolute joy, and the reward is a smooth, buttery treat that melts in your mouth. It’s straightforward, comforting, and perfect for every occasion. Whether you keep it all for yourself or share it around, this fudge will quickly become a beloved favorite. Give it a try—you won’t regret making this timeless, irresistible classic!
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Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Description
This rich and creamy Peanut Butter Fudge recipe is a simple no-bake treat that combines smooth peanut butter with powdered sugar and butter for a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth dessert. Perfect for quick homemade sweets, this fudge offers classic flavors with minimal ingredients and effort.
Ingredients
Fudge Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, for salted fudge)
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking, ensuring your fudge will release easily after chilling.
- Melt butter and peanut butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the peanut butter and unsalted butter together, stirring occasionally until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt if using. Mix thoroughly until the fudge mixture is smooth, thick, and well blended.
- Pour and chill: Transfer the fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set and firm up properly.
- Cut and serve: After chilling, remove the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper edges, cut it into squares or rectangles, and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth fudge texture; chunky peanut butter will add unwanted texture.
- The optional salt enhances the flavor, balancing the sweetness and highlighting the peanut butter taste.
- Make sure to chill the fudge for at least two hours to allow it to firm up properly before cutting.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the fudge fresh and prevent melting.
- This fudge recipe is quick and requires no baking, making it perfect for easy homemade treats.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
