If you have a sweet tooth and love peanut butter, then this Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe is about to become your new best friend. It’s a creamy, dreamy treat that melts in your mouth and is surprisingly simple to make. With just a handful of pantry staples transforming into a rich, velvety fudge, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up a batch that’s perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Whether you’re making it for a party, a holiday, or just a little pick-me-up, this recipe delivers that classic peanut butter goodness in a luscious form that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of texture, flavor, and sweetness in your fudge. From the creamy peanut butter to the fluffy marshmallow creme, every component adds its own magic to this irresistible treat.
- 3 cups granulated sugar: The foundation for sweetness and the base for the fudge’s texture.
- 1 (5-ounce) can evaporated milk (about 2/3 cup): Adds creaminess and richness without extra liquid that would make the fudge too soft.
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (12 tablespoons): Brings smoothness and helps create a melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
- 1/3 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy): The star flavor that gives the fudge its signature nutty taste.
- 1 (10-ounce) package peanut butter chips: Adds extra bursts of peanut butter flavor and delectable texture.
- 1 (7-ounce) jar marshmallow creme: Gives the fudge fluffiness and a silky finish.
- 1/4 cup salted peanuts (optional): Provides a delightful crunch and a salty contrast that lifts the sweetness.
How to Make Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Start the Sugar Mixture
Begin by buttering an 8×8-inch baking dish or spraying it with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the fudge won’t stick when it’s time to cut. Then, combine the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and unsalted butter in a medium heavy pot. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning and ensure everything melts together evenly.
Step 2: Boil to the Perfect Temperature
Once the mixture reaches a boil, keep it boiling for about 5 minutes while stirring constantly. The goal here is to reach the soft ball stage, which means a candy thermometer should register 235°F. This precise temperature is key for getting the right fudge texture — firm but not hard.
Step 3: Blend in the Peanut Butter and Marshmallow Creme
Take the pot off the heat and quickly stir in your peanut butter, peanut butter chips, and marshmallow creme. Mix thoroughly until the fudge looks creamy and smooth. If you’re using salted peanuts, fold most of them in now, reserving a few to sprinkle on top for a beautiful finishing touch.
Step 4: Set and Cool
Pour the luscious peanut butter mixture immediately into your prepared baking dish. Let it cool completely at room temperature, allowing the fudge to set up nicely. Once solid, cut the fudge into squares and get ready to enjoy a deliciously addictive treat.
How to Serve Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a few salted peanuts or a light dusting of cocoa powder can add a lovely touch to your fudge squares. You might even drizzle some melted chocolate or a swirl of peanut butter on top for an extra decadent look that will impress.
Side Dishes
This Easy Peanut Butter Fudge pairs perfectly with a cold glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon snack. If you’re planning a dessert spread, try serving it alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a contrast of flavors and temperatures.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap individual squares in wax paper for a cute gift idea or serve them in a decorative dish at your next gathering. You can layer fudge pieces between parchment paper in a pretty box for a homemade treat that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover fudge fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. This preserves the perfect chewy texture and ensures your fudge stays delicious for up to two weeks.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy your Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe later, it freezes beautifully. Just wrap the pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. This way, you can keep them fresh for up to three months without losing that signature flavor.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed at room temperature, but if it’s been in the freezer, just let it thaw naturally. Avoid microwaving as it may alter the texture, but if you need to soften it quickly, a few seconds on a low setting can help.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a bit of extra texture and a nutty crunch inside your fudge, making it even more interesting and satisfying.
What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?
While a candy thermometer is ideal, you can test the soft ball stage by dropping a small amount of the boiling mixture into cold water. If it forms a soft, pliable ball that can be flattened, you’re good to go.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative and use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk, but note that it may slightly change the flavor and texture.
How long does the fudge take to set properly?
Usually, the fudge sets in a few hours at room temperature. For quicker results, you can refrigerate it, but avoid freezing right away if you want that perfect texture.
Can I add other mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit?
Yes! This Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe is versatile, so feel free to customize with chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit to make it your own unique creation.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe is truly one of those gems that’s as simple as it is satisfying. It’s perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself to a little moment of homemade happiness. I can’t wait for you to try making this at home — once you do, it’s guaranteed to become a regular in your dessert lineup. So grab those ingredients, and let’s get fudge-making!
Print
Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Peanut Butter Fudge recipe combines creamy peanut butter, sweet marshmallow creme, and peanut butter chips to create a rich, delicious treat that’s perfect for sharing. Ready in just 30 minutes, this classic fudge is smooth, nutty, and irresistibly satisfying, making it an ideal dessert for holidays, parties, or any time you crave a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 (5-ounce) can evaporated milk (about 2/3 cup)
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (12 tablespoons)
- 1/3 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- 1 (10-ounce) package peanut butter chips
- 1 (7-ounce) jar marshmallow creme
Optional Toppings
- 1/4 cup salted peanuts, chopped (optional, reserve a few for sprinkling on top)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Butter an 8×8-inch baking dish or spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking, then set it aside while you prepare the fudge mixture.
- Cook the Fudge Mixture: In a medium-sized, heavy pot, combine granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and unsalted butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until the mixture comes to a boil to prevent burning and ensure even melting.
- Boil to Soft Ball Stage: Once boiling, continue to cook and stir constantly for about 5 minutes. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature closely until it reaches the soft ball stage of 235°F (113°C), which is crucial for achieving the right fudge texture.
- Mix in Flavor Ingredients: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the peanut butter, peanut butter chips, and marshmallow creme. Mix vigorously until the mixture is creamy and smooth. If using, fold in the chopped salted peanuts, reserving a few to sprinkle on top for added crunch and presentation.
- Pour and Cool: Immediately pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the surface with a spatula if needed. Sprinkle with the reserved chopped peanuts if using. Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature until firm.
- Serve: Once cooled and set, cut the fudge into 24 square pieces. Store the fudge in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches the correct soft ball temperature for proper texture.
- Peanut butter can be creamy or crunchy based on your preference; crunchy adds extra texture.
- Make sure to stir constantly while boiling the mixture to prevent scorching or crystallization.
- Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- Adding salted peanuts provides extra salty crunch, balancing the sweetness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
