There is nothing quite like the creamy, rich texture of peanut butter fudge to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings, and this Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe is hands down one of the easiest and most delicious ways to make it from scratch. Perfectly balanced between sweet and salty, with that signature peanut butter flavor that melts in your mouth, this homemade treat is guaranteed to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Whether you are looking for a quick homemade gift or a decadent snack for yourself, this recipe delivers a luscious, buttery fudge that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe comes together with a handful of simple, essential ingredients that each bring something magical to the final product. From the creamy texture to the perfect sweetness and subtle hint of vanilla, here’s what you’ll want on hand.
- Creamy peanut butter: The star of the show, providing that deeply nutty, smooth base.
- Unsalted butter: Adds rich creaminess and helps achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the fudge with a silky smooth consistency, avoiding any graininess.
- Vanilla extract: Boosts flavor with a subtle aromatic touch that complements the peanut butter perfectly.
- Salt (optional): Just a pinch brings out the flavors and balances the sweetness beautifully if you enjoy a salted fudge twist.
How to Make Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
First things first, line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to ensure your fudge comes out flawlessly without sticking. This simple step makes cutting and removing the fudge so much easier once it’s set.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Peanut Butter
Next, combine the creamy peanut butter and unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture is completely smooth and melted together, creating the luscious base for your fudge.
Step 3: Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla
Take the saucepan off the heat and immediately stir in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt if you’re using it. Mixing thoroughly at this stage is crucial to achieve a perfectly smooth and cohesive fudge mixture that will set just right.
Step 4: Pour and Chill
Pour your fudge mixture evenly into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it out neatly. Refrigerate for at least two hours until the fudge is firm and ready for slicing. Impatience is tough here, but waiting pays off with that perfect texture.
Step 5: Cut and Serve
Once your fudge is fully chilled and solid, lift it out using the parchment edges and cut it into squares or rectangles. Serve these little bites of heaven to family and friends or stash them in an airtight container for later indulgence.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe even further, consider sprinkling crushed peanuts, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or a pinch of sea salt on top before chilling. These garnishes add texture, contrast, and a stylish finish that makes the fudge look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Serve your fudge alongside hot coffee, a cold glass of milk, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert combo. The creamy, nutty fudge pairs beautifully with beverages and desserts that balance its richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting or parties, place individually wrapped fudge squares in decorative tins or clear cellophane bags tied with pretty ribbons. You can also create layered fudge bars by alternating with chocolate fudge or adding swirls of caramel within the mixture before chilling.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your peanut butter fudge keeps exceptionally well at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week. For longer freshness, refrigerate it, but be sure to let pieces come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezing
To freeze leftover fudge, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen fudge lasts up to three months and thaws quickly at room temperature whenever you need a quick sweet treat.
Reheating
There’s typically no need to reheat fudge; however, if you want a softer texture, you can gently warm it in short bursts of 10 seconds in the microwave. Be careful not to overheat or melt it completely, as that changes the texture drastically.
FAQs
Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can, but chunky peanut butter will create a different texture with bits of peanuts inside. If you prefer smooth fudge, stick to creamy peanut butter, but chunky adds a nice crunch if that’s your vibe.
Is it necessary to use unsalted butter?
While unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness better, you can use salted butter if that’s what you have. Just skip the additional salt in the recipe or adjust accordingly to keep the balance just right.
How long does it take for the fudge to set?
The fudge needs at least two hours in the refrigerator to firm up properly. However, if you have the patience, chilling it overnight will yield the best texture for cutting and serving.
Can I add other flavors or mix-ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a swirl of caramel before chilling for a personalized twist on this classic Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe.
What’s the best way to cut the fudge cleanly?
Use a sharp knife warmed with hot water and wiped dry between cuts to get smooth, clean edges on your fudge squares without crumbling.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a quick, homemade dessert that echoes the classic flavors everyone loves, you really can’t go wrong with this Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe. It’s simple, indulgent, and endlessly versatile—making peanut butter fudge from scratch has never been this easy or this satisfying. Give it a try and watch it become your new favorite sweet treat to share with friends and family!
Print
Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Description
This creamy and rich Peanut Butter Fudge is a simple no-bake treat that combines the smoothness of peanut butter with the sweetness of powdered sugar. Perfectly set after chilling, it’s an easy-to-make dessert that delights peanut butter lovers and is great for serving at gatherings or as a homemade sweet snack.
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 the fudge from sticking.
- Melt butter and peanut butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the peanut butter and unsalted butter together. Stir occasionally until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt if making salted fudge, mixing thoroughly until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Pour and chill: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly using a spatula. Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is firm.
- Cut and serve: Once the fudge has set and is firm to the touch, remove it from the pan using the parchment paper. Cut the fudge into squares or rectangles and serve as desired.
Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter for the smoothest texture; chunky peanut butter may make the fudge less smooth.
- For a salted version, add 1/4 teaspoon of salt as stated, or sprinkle flaky sea salt on top after pouring into the pan.
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Allow fudge to come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften it slightly for the best texture.
- You can customize by adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the fudge mixture before chilling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
