When it comes to rich, creamy, and satisfying treats, nothing beats Peanut Butter Fudge. With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and bold peanut butter flavor, this recipe is sure to become your new favorite dessert. It’s incredibly simple to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and minimal effort. Whether you’re looking to impress guests, create homemade holiday gifts, or indulge in a personal sweet moment, this peanut butter fudge is perfect for every occasion.
Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
This Peanut Butter Fudge is a dream come true for peanut butter lovers. It’s soft, creamy, and perfectly sweetened to highlight the nutty richness of peanut butter. Each piece is like a little square of happiness that pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. It’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or even just keeping on hand for an after-dinner treat. Plus, it stores beautifully, so you can savor it for days!
Why Our Peanut Butter Fudge is the Best
Our Peanut Butter Fudge is not just easy to make—it’s foolproof and deliciously satisfying. Made with only four ingredients, it’s the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and rich flavors that melt in your mouth.
Ingredients Notes for Peanut Butter Fudge
Each ingredient in our Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe plays a vital role in creating this indulgent, creamy dessert:
- 1 cup butter: Adds richness and a smooth texture to the fudge.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: The star of the show! Be sure to use regular creamy peanut butter, not natural, for the best texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a hint of warmth and depth to the fudge.
- 3½ cups powdered sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create the signature fudge texture.
Ingredient Tip: Want a more intense peanut flavor? Stir in a handful of chopped peanuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate for added flair!
Kitchen Tools Needed for Peanut Butter Fudge
- Microwave-safe glass bowl or saucepan (depending on your method)
- Whisk or mixing spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 8-9 inch square pan
- Parchment paper or butter for greasing
How to Make Peanut Butter Fudge
This Peanut Butter Fudge is so easy to whip up, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it sooner! Follow these simple steps to create a creamy, irresistible treat.
Microwave Method
1. Melt the Ingredients
In a glass bowl, combine 1 cup butter, 1 cup creamy peanut butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Microwave the mixture for 90 seconds.
2. Mix Until Smooth
Stir the mixture until it’s smooth, creamy, and fully combined.
3. Add the Powdered Sugar
Gradually stir in 3½ cups powdered sugar, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
4. Prepare the Pan
Grease an 8-9 inch pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
5. Spread and Chill
Spread the fudge mixture evenly in the pan and smooth the surface. Refrigerate the fudge for at least 4 hours before slicing into squares.
Stove-top Method
1. Heat and Combine Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup butter, 1 cup creamy peanut butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract over medium-low heat. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Mix in the Powdered Sugar
Remove the saucepan from heat and gradually mix in 3½ cups powdered sugar, stirring until everything is fully incorporated.
3. Prepare the Pan
Grease an 8-9 inch pan with butter or line it with parchment paper.
4. Pour and Chill
Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface evenly. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before cutting into pieces.
How to Store Peanut Butter Fudge
To keep your Peanut Butter Fudge fresh and delicious:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Peanut Butter Fudge Variations
Make your Peanut Butter Fudge even more exciting with these fun and creative variations:
- Chocolate Swirl Fudge: Melt ½ cup of chocolate chips and swirl it into the fudge mixture before chilling.
- Crunchy Peanut Fudge: Add ½ cup of chopped peanuts to the mixture for a delightful crunch.
- Salted Peanut Butter Fudge: Sprinkle sea salt flakes on top of the fudge for a sweet-and-salty combo.
- Marshmallow Fudge: Fold in 1 cup of mini marshmallows for a fun and gooey texture.
What to Serve With Peanut Butter Fudge
This decadent Peanut Butter Fudge pairs perfectly with:
- Hot cocoa: A rich and creamy beverage that enhances the fudge’s sweetness.
- Coffee: The bold flavor of coffee balances the richness of the fudge.
- Vanilla ice cream: Serve a piece of fudge alongside a scoop of ice cream for a heavenly dessert duo.
For an extra indulgent presentation, drizzle the fudge with melted chocolate or caramel before serving!
Top Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Fudge
- Use creamy peanut butter: Regular peanut butter (not natural) ensures a smooth, stable texture.
- Mix thoroughly: Gradually adding powdered sugar helps avoid lumps and keeps the fudge silky.
- Line the pan: Parchment paper makes it easy to lift the fudge out of the pan for clean slicing.
- Chill completely: Allow at least 4 hours for the fudge to set properly before cutting.
- Cut with a sharp knife: For clean edges, run your knife under warm water, dry it, and slice.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Ina Garten suggests adding a touch of espresso powder to enhance the peanut butter flavor.
- Martha Stewart recommends dusting the top with powdered sugar for a pretty finish.
- Alton Brown emphasizes the importance of cooling fudge slowly to maintain its creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly chunkier. It’s great if you enjoy a bit of crunch!
2. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
You can try reducing the powdered sugar slightly, but it may affect the firmness of the fudge.
3. How do I know when the fudge is set?
The fudge should feel firm to the touch and no longer sticky after at least 4 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is highly recommended for the best flavor and texture, but margarine can be used in a pinch.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a larger pan to ensure the fudge sets evenly.
Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Ingredients
- – 1 cup butter
- – 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- – 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- – 3½ cups powdered sugar
Instructions
Microwave Method:
- In a glass bowl, combine the peanut butter, butter, and vanilla extract. Heat in the microwave for 90 seconds.
- Stir the mixture until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, stirring well after each addition.
- Grease an 8-9 inch pan with butter or line it with parchment paper. Spread the fudge mixture evenly in the pan.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before slicing. Keep stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Stovetop Method:
- In a medium-sized saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the peanut butter, butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Remove from heat and gradually mix in the powdered sugar, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Prepare an 8-9 inch pan by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper. Pour the fudge mixture into the pan and smooth the surface.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before cutting. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
- For a twist, sprinkle chopped peanuts or mini chocolate chips on top of the fudge before chilling.
- This fudge can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let it thaw slightly before serving.
