Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe

Introduction

Peanut butter fudge is a rich, creamy treat that’s simple to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With just a few ingredients, you can create a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth dessert that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter*
• 1 cup (2 sticks or 230g) unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 4 cups (460g) sifted confectioners’ sugar*
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 3/4 cup add-ins, such as chocolate chips, peanuts, or Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups

Instructions

1. Step 1: Line an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift out the fudge once set.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, melt the peanut butter and butter together. To do this, slice the butter into pieces and microwave in one-minute intervals, stirring in between until completely melted and smooth.
3. Step 3: Remove the mixture from the microwave and stir in the vanilla extract. If you prefer a salty-sweet flavor, add the salt now. Gradually add the sifted confectioners’ sugar, stirring continuously until fully combined; the mixture will be thick and dough-like.
4. Step 4: If using add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, fold them into the fudge while the mixture is still warm for an even distribution.
5. Step 5: Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with the back of a spatula or spoon. The top may appear slightly oily.
6. Step 6: Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until the fudge is firm.
7. Step 7: Once set, lift the fudge out using the foil overhang and cut into pieces to serve.

Tips & Variations

• For a nuttier texture, toast some chopped peanuts before folding them into the fudge.
• If you want a firmer fudge, add a little less peanut butter or increase the confectioners’ sugar by 1/4 cup.
• Swirl in melted chocolate before chilling for a marbled effect.
• Use natural peanut butter, but expect a slightly different texture due to less oil.

Storage

Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. To serve, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. Avoid freezing as it can alter the texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will add texture from the peanut bits, making your fudge a bit more crunchy and flavorful.

Do I have to sift the confectioners’ sugar?

Sifting the confectioners’ sugar helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth fudge texture, but if your sugar is very fine, you can skip this step carefully.

Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe

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4.7 from 79 reviews

A rich and creamy peanut butter fudge made with just a few simple ingredients. This no-bake fudge combines smooth peanut butter, butter, and confectioners’ sugar to create a luscious sweet treat that can be customized with your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or peanuts. Perfectly sweet, with an optional salty twist, this fudge is easy to make and ideal for satisfying your dessert cravings.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 13 minutes
• Yield: 16 pieces 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup (2 sticks or 230g) unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 4 cups (460g) sifted confectioners’ sugar

Optional

• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup add-ins, such as chocolate chips, peanuts, or Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups

Instructions

1. Prepare the pan: Line an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the fudge out later for easy removal.
2. Melt ingredients: In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the peanut butter and unsalted butter together. For easier melting, slice the butter thinly. Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
3. Add flavorings and sugar: Remove the melted mixture from the microwave. Stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly using a silicone spatula or wooden spoon. If you like a slight salty-sweet balance, add the optional salt. Gradually add sifted confectioners’ sugar, stirring continuously until fully incorporated. The mixture will become very thick, resembling cookie dough.
4. Incorporate add-ins: If you’re using any add-ins like chocolate chips, peanuts, or Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, fold them gently into the warm fudge mixture now.
5. Set the fudge: Press the thick fudge mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan. Smooth the top with the back of a spatula or spoon. The top may appear somewhat oily. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil.
6. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 4 hours or until completely firm. Once set, use the foil overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan and cut it into pieces.
7. Store: Keep the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.

Notes

• Make sure to sift the confectioners’ sugar to avoid lumps in your fudge.
• Using creamy peanut butter is key for a smooth texture; chunky peanut butter will change the consistency.
• Chilling time can be extended overnight for firmer fudge if desired.
• The optional salt balances the sweetness and enhances peanut butter flavor but can be omitted for a sweeter fudge.
• Customize your fudge by folding in your favorite mix-ins for extra texture and flavor.
• If the fudge becomes too thick to stir, warming it slightly in the microwave can help.
• Cut fudge with a sharp knife warmed under hot water for clean slices.

Keywords: peanut butter fudge, easy fudge recipe, no-bake peanut butter fudge, creamy peanut butter dessert, homemade fudge