Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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