If you have a soft spot for rich, creamy, melt-in-your-mouth sweets, then this Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Combining the perfect balance of velvety peanut butter, buttery goodness, and just the right hint of vanilla sweetness, this fudge is incredibly simple to make yet utterly irresistible. Every bite offers that nostalgic comfort with a smooth, luscious texture that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe promises to bring smiles and satisfied cravings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this fudge lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a treat that tastes like it took hours of effort. Each element plays a crucial role, from creating creamy richness to ensuring the perfect texture that cuts cleanly and melts delightfully in your mouth.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (250g): Use a brand you love for the best flavor and smooth consistency.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (226g): Unsalted helps control the salt balance and adds a luscious buttery note.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the fudge’s flavor profile.
- 3 cups powdered sugar (sifted, 360g): Provides sweetness and the right texture—sifting prevents lumps for smooth fudge.
How to Make Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lightly greasing an 8-inch square baking dish with butter—this ensures the fudge won’t stick and makes removal easier. Then line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil, extending the edges for a handy lifting technique once your fudge sets.
Step 2: Combine Peanut Butter and Butter
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the creamy peanut butter and unsalted butter. Stir occasionally until the mixture reaches a gentle boil. This step is key to marrying the flavors and creating the base for your fudge’s smooth texture.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Sugar
Remove the saucepan from heat immediately, then stir in the sifted powdered sugar along with the vanilla extract. Stir vigorously until the mixture feels silky and there are no lumps of sugar left—this is when your fudge starts to come to life with that satisfying creamy consistency.
Step 4: Transfer and Set
Pour the luscious fudge mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly using a spatula to create a smooth surface. Let it cool at room temperature for several hours to set naturally, or refrigerate for about an hour if you want it chilled faster.
Step 5: Slice and Enjoy
Once set, use the parchment paper edges to lift the fudge out of the pan. Slice it into approximately 1-inch squares—bite-sized pockets of peanut butter bliss. Store your pieces in an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
While the fudge is delightful on its own, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top can elevate it even more. Chopped roasted peanuts also add a scrumptious crunch contrast for texture lovers.
Side Dishes
This Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or a cold glass of milk. For a creative dessert platter, serve alongside fresh berries or creamy vanilla ice cream—balance the intensity of the fudge with lighter, fresh flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap individual fudge squares in wax paper tied with twine for charming gifts, or stack them on a pretty plate sprinkled with crushed peanuts for parties. You can also pop them into mini cupcake liners for bite-sized treats that are perfect for sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your fudge will stay soft and flavorful for up to a week stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If your kitchen is warm, storing it in the fridge can extend freshness for up to a month, just bring pieces to room temperature before serving for ideal texture.
Freezing
To keep your Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe fresh longer, freeze cut pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet first. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep perfectly for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed straight from the fridge or at room temperature, but if you prefer it a little softer, a few seconds in the microwave will do the trick—just be careful not to overheat or it can become oily.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add bits of nuts in your fudge, giving extra texture and a delightful crunch that contrasts with the smooth base.
Do I need to sift the powdered sugar?
Sifting powdered sugar is highly recommended to avoid lumps in the fudge. It ensures a silky consistency and smoother end result.
How long does this Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe take to set?
You can let it set at room temperature for several hours or speed up the process by chilling it in the refrigerator for about an hour.
Can I add salt to the fudge?
Yes! Adding about ¼ teaspoon of salt balances the sweetness and heightens the peanut butter flavor without overpowering the fudge’s sweetness.
Is this recipe suitable for gift-giving?
Definitely. The classic flavor combined with its beautiful presentation when wrapped or arranged makes this fudge a wonderful homemade gift option for any occasion.
Final Thoughts
Making this Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe is such a joy, from the simple ingredients to the dreamy, creamy results. It’s a wonderfully satisfying treat that fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of peanut butter and vanilla. Don’t hesitate—whip up a batch and share the love with friends and family. Once you taste your first piece, I bet this recipe will be a treasured favorite for many years to come.
Print
Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes plus several hours or 1 hour refrigeration to set
- Yield: 64 pieces
- Category: Confectionery
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Peanut Butter Fudge recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and sweet treat perfect for peanut butter lovers. Made with just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this fudge sets up quickly and can be stored for up to a month. It’s an easy no-bake confection that melts in your mouth, combining the smoothness of peanut butter and butter with the sweetness of powdered sugar and vanilla.
Ingredients
Fudge Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (250g)
- 1 cup unsalted butter (226g)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted (360g)
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare baking dish: Lightly grease an 8-inch square baking dish with butter and line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy removal of the fudge after setting.
- Melt peanut butter and butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine peanut butter and unsalted butter. Stir occasionally and bring the mixture to a boil, ensuring it is fully melted and well combined.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat once boiling. Stir in sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Add salt if desired for flavor balance.
- Pour and set fudge: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly with a spatula. Allow it to cool at room temperature for several hours or refrigerate for about 1 hour until fully set.
- Cut and store: Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into 1-inch squares. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for up to 1 month.
Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth fudge texture.
- Sifting the powdered sugar helps avoid lumps in the fudge.
- For a slightly salty-sweet flavor, add ¼ teaspoon of salt when mixing the sugar with the peanut butter and butter.
- Line the baking dish with parchment paper or foil for easy removal and cleaner edges.
- Store fudge in an airtight container to maintain texture and freshness.
- Allow fudge to come to room temperature before cutting for cleaner slices.
