Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe

The Best Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe for Sweet Tooth Magic

Chocolate and peanut butter dance together in this decadent peanut butter fudge recipe that melts hearts with every bite.

Sweet memories of childhood drift through each velvety square of goodness.

Rich, smooth, and impossibly addictive, this fudge brings pure comfort to dessert lovers everywhere.

No complicated techniques stand between you and confectionery bliss.

Condensed milk provides the silky base that helps create perfect texture and incredible richness.

The simplicity of this recipe means even novice bakers can craft a delightful treat in minutes.

Prepare to be the star of any gathering with this irresistible confection that disappears faster than you can slice it.

Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge What Sets It Apart

  • No complicated steps or professional baking skills needed, making this fudge perfect for beginners who want a delicious treat without stress.
  • Easily prepare the fudge using a microwave method, saving time and reducing dirty dishes compared to traditional cooking techniques.
  • Peanut butter fudge appeals to both kids and adults, creating a crowd-pleasing sweet that everyone will love and enjoy together.
  • Skip the oven entirely and create a rich, creamy dessert that requires minimal effort and provides maximum satisfaction for sweet tooth cravings.

Ingredient List for Peanut Butter Fudge Lovers

Main Ingredients:
  • Peanut Butter: A rich and creamy base that gives the fudge its signature nutty flavor and smooth texture.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps create a silky, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
  • Powdered Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps the fudge set to the perfect consistency.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the overall flavor profile of the fudge.
Optional Preparation Items:
  • Parchment Paper, Cooking Spray: Helps with easy removal and prevents sticking when setting the fudge.

Gear Needed for Perfect Peanut Butter Fudge

  • Microwave-safe Bowl: Large, sturdy bowl for melting ingredients.
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for stirring and mixing ingredients smoothly.
  • 8-9 Inch Baking Pan: Square or rectangular pan for setting fudge.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements for ingredients.
  • Parchment Paper (optional): Helps easy removal of fudge from pan.
  • Knife: Sharp tool for cutting fudge into neat squares.

How to Whip Up Peanut Butter Fudge Easily

Step 1: Prep Your Workspace

Grab a medium-sized microwave-safe bowl or saucepan.

Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, allowing extra edges to hang over for easy removal.

Have your mixing tools ready and clear some space in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Melt Creamy Base

For microwave method:
  • Butter
  • Peanut butter
  • Vanilla extract

Combine ingredients in the microwave-safe bowl.

Heat for 90 seconds, stopping halfway to stir.

Blend until everything looks silky and combined.

For stovetop method:

Place ingredients in a saucepan.

Heat over medium-low, stirring constantly until smooth and fully incorporated.

Remove from heat immediately after melting.

Step 3: Create Fudge Texture

Gradually add powdered sugar to the warm mixture.

Stir vigorously until the mixture becomes thick and pulls away from the bowl’s sides.

The consistency should resemble a soft, glossy dough.

Step 4: Shape and Chill

Transfer the fudge mixture into the prepared pan.

Use a spatula or clean hands to press evenly into all corners.

Smooth the top for a perfect finish.

Step 5: Set and Slice

Refrigerate the fudge for 4 hours or overnight until completely firm.

Use parchment paper edges to lift the entire block out.

Slice into bite-sized squares using a sharp knife.

Step 6: Store and Enjoy

Keep fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Enjoy within one week for maximum freshness.

Bring to room temperature before serving for the best creamy texture.

Peanut Butter Fudge Tricks from the Pros

  • Use medium power to prevent butter from burning and ensure smooth melting of ingredients.
  • Add powdered sugar slowly and stir consistently to avoid lumps and achieve a silky texture.
  • Use parchment paper with overhanging edges for easy fudge removal and clean cutting.
  • Allow full 4 hours of refrigeration to ensure firm, slice-able fudge with ideal consistency.
  • Keep fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness and texture.

Ideas for Changing Up Peanut Butter Fudge

  • Almond Butter Swap: Replace peanut butter with creamy almond butter for a nutty alternative with slightly different flavor profile.
  • Chocolate Drizzle Upgrade: Melt dark chocolate chips and drizzle over top of fudge before chilling for rich chocolate enhancement.
  • Vegan Friendly Version: Use coconut oil instead of butter and powdered coconut sugar in place of traditional powdered sugar for plant-based option.
  • Keto Low-Carb Option: Substitute powdered sugar with powdered erythritol or monk fruit sweetener to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining creamy texture.

Creative Peanut Butter Fudge Presentation

  • Sweet Dessert Platter: Arrange fudge squares alongside fresh strawberries, chocolate shavings, and whipped cream for an elegant presentation.
  • Afternoon Tea Companion: Serve bite-sized fudge pieces with hot tea or coffee, creating a delightful midday treat that complements warm beverages.
  • Holiday Gift Packaging: Pack fudge squares in decorative gift boxes with parchment paper, perfect for sharing with friends and family during special occasions.
  • Decadent Ice Cream Topping: Crumble fudge pieces over vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent dessert with rich, nutty flavor.

Peanut Butter Fudge Storage Pointers

  • Transfer fudge squares to an airtight container. Layer with parchment paper between pieces to prevent sticking. Keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.
  • Wrap individual fudge pieces in plastic wrap. Place in freezer-safe container. Freeze for maximum 3 months. Ensure tight sealing to prevent freezer burn.
  • Place fudge in sealed container at room temperature. Consume within 3-4 days. Keep away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
  • Remove frozen fudge from freezer. Let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Unwrap and enjoy soft, creamy texture.

FAQs

  • Can I use natural peanut butter instead of regular peanut butter?

Yes, but you’ll need to stir it well and potentially adjust the consistency. Natural peanut butter might make the fudge slightly softer, so you may need to add a bit more powdered sugar to help it set properly.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

Most likely yes, but always check your specific ingredients. Peanut butter, butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar are typically gluten-free, but verify the labels of each ingredient to be certain.

  • How can I make this fudge less sweet?

Reduce the amount of powdered sugar slightly or use a natural peanut butter with no added sugar. You can also add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and enhance the peanut butter flavor.

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Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe

Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe


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4.9 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 16 1x

Description

Homemade creamy peanut butter fudge delivers rich chocolate and nutty flavors in a classic sweet treat. Simple ingredients and easy preparation make this dessert a perfect indulgence for weekend gatherings and special occasions you’ll savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240 ml) butter
  • 1 cup (250 g) creamy peanut butter
  • 3 1/2 cups (440 g) powdered sugar

Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare an 8-9 inch pan by lightly greasing or lining with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the fudge.
  2. Select either microwave or stovetop method to melt butter and peanut butter together, heating until completely smooth and integrated.
  3. Remove melted mixture from heat source and incorporate vanilla extract, stirring thoroughly to distribute flavor evenly.
  4. Gradually fold powdered sugar into the warm mixture, mixing consistently until a uniform, thick consistency develops without any sugar lumps.
  5. Transfer the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread evenly and create a smooth, level surface.
  6. Refrigerate the fudge for approximately 4 hours, allowing it to completely set and firm up to the ideal cutting texture.
  7. Once chilled, remove from refrigerator and slice into neat, uniform squares using a sharp knife.
  8. Store the finished fudge in an airtight container within the refrigerator to maintain its creamy texture and prevent melting.

Notes

  • Choose creamy peanut butter for a smoother, more consistent texture that blends easily without lumps.
  • Sift powdered sugar before mixing to prevent clumping and ensure a silky, uniform fudge.
  • Use room temperature ingredients to help ingredients combine more smoothly and reduce microwaving time.
  • Consider using natural peanut butter for a less sweet, more intense nutty flavor profile.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 16
  • Calories: 229
  • Sugar: 17 g
  • Sodium: 72 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Food Educator

Expertise

Plant-based and vegetarian recipe development, Nutritional analysis and meal planning, Culinary education and workshop facilitation, Content writing with a focus on healthy living​

Education

Diploma in Culinary Arts, Mt. San Jacinto College, CA
Focus: Comprehensive culinary training with an emphasis on sustainable cooking practices.

Certificate in Nutrition and Healthy Living, Cornell University (Online Program)
Focus: Understanding the principles of nutrition to create balanced and health-conscious recipes.


Clara lives where fresh ideas and fresh ingredients meet. She pairs her culinary know-how with her passion for healthy, planet-friendly cooking.
For Clara, good food should taste great, nourish your body, and feel easy to make. Her recipes highlight whole foods, colorful produce, and a deep respect for seasonal eating.

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