If you’ve ever craved something sweet but couldn’t face the cleanup that comes with traditional fudge, this peanut butter fudge will change that. I still remember the first time I made it — a rainy Sunday afternoon when my oven had quit, and I needed dessert fast. Ten minutes later, I had smooth, creamy squares of pure peanut butter bliss. No candy thermometer, no stress, just that nostalgic melt-in-your-mouth taste that reminds you of holidays and cozy kitchens. Whether you’re a first-time fudge maker or a seasoned baker in a hurry, this recipe hits that perfect spot between comfort and simplicity.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Effortless: No complicated steps or special tools needed. You can whip up this peanut butter fudge in just 10 minutes with ingredients already in your pantry.
- Incredibly Creamy Texture: The combination of butter and peanut butter creates a silky, melt-in-your-mouth texture that feels luxurious with every bite.
- No Candy Thermometer Required: Forget the stress of getting the temperature “just right.” This fudge sets beautifully every single time, even for beginners.
- Perfect for Gifting or Sharing: Cut it into neat squares, wrap in parchment, and you’ve got the ultimate homemade gift that everyone actually wants to receive.
- Endlessly Adaptable: Like your fudge with a little crunch or swirl of chocolate? This recipe is the perfect base for your own delicious experiments.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Unsalted butter – adds rich flavor and a smooth, velvety base.
- Creamy peanut butter – the star ingredient that gives the fudge its irresistible taste and texture.
- Pinch of salt – balances the sweetness and enhances that nutty flavor.
- Vanilla extract – adds warmth and depth to every bite.
- Powdered sugar – creates that perfect fudge consistency, soft yet firm enough to slice cleanly.
Simple, right? Nothing fancy, just classic ingredients that deliver big flavor and even bigger comfort.
How to Make Peanut Butter Fudge
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Butter an 8-inch square baking dish or line it with parchment paper so the fudge lifts out easily once it’s set. Set aside.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Peanut Butter
In a medium saucepan, combine the butter and peanut butter over medium heat. Stir frequently until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Once it starts bubbling, remove it from the heat immediately.
Step 3: Add Flavor and Sweetness
Stir in a pinch of salt and the vanilla extract. Then, gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing until smooth and creamy. The mixture will thicken as the sugar blends in — that’s exactly what you want.
Step 4: Pour and Set
Spread the fudge mixture evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface and refrigerate for about 1 hour, or until firm.
Step 5: Cut and Enjoy
Once the fudge is set, lift it out of the pan, cut it into small squares, and serve. Each bite should be perfectly creamy with that signature peanut butter richness.
Pro Tips from My Kitchen
Use Fresh, Smooth Peanut Butter – For the creamiest texture, stick with classic creamy peanut butter. Natural varieties that separate can make the fudge grainy, so give those a pass for this recipe.
Sift the Powdered Sugar – This one small step keeps your fudge lump-free and smooth. It’s a tiny effort that makes a big difference in texture.
Don’t Overheat the Mixture – Once the butter and peanut butter start to bubble, remove from heat right away. Overheating can cause the fats to separate and the fudge to lose its silky finish.
Let It Set Fully Before Cutting – Patience pays off here. Give it the full hour in the fridge before slicing to get those clean, professional-looking squares.
Make It Ahead for the Holidays – This fudge keeps beautifully. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a month or freeze it for up to three. Perfect for when you want that last-minute treat or gift.
Frequently Asked Questions about Peanut Butter Fudge
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, it stays fresh for up to one week. If you refrigerate it, it can last a full month without losing flavor or texture. For long-term storage, freeze it for up to three months — just thaw before serving.
It’s possible, but not ideal. Natural peanut butter tends to separate and can make the fudge oily or crumbly. For best results, stick with a smooth, stabilized variety like Jif or Skippy.
Yes! Combine butter and peanut butter in a large microwave-safe bowl, cover with a paper towel, and heat for 2 minutes. Stir, heat for another 2 minutes, then mix in the salt, vanilla, and powdered sugar. Pour into a pan and chill.
Usually, it means too much powdered sugar was added or the mixture cooled too quickly. Try adding a spoonful of melted butter and reheating gently to bring it back to a creamy consistency.
Absolutely. A drizzle of melted chocolate, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or crushed peanuts on top take this fudge from classic to unforgettable.
Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter for rich flavor and smooth texture
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter avoid natural varieties
- 1 pinch salt to balance the sweetness
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3.5 cups powdered sugar sifted for best texture
Instructions
- Butter an 8-inch square baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Set aside.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and peanut butter, stirring frequently until it comes to a gentle boil. Remove from heat immediately once bubbling begins.
- Stir in a pinch of salt and the vanilla extract. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth and creamy. The mixture will thicken as the sugar incorporates.
- Spread the fudge mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface, and refrigerate for about 1 hour, or until firm.
- Once fully set, lift the fudge from the pan, cut into small squares, and enjoy!
Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter for the best texture.
- Avoid natural types that separate.
- Sift powdered sugar to avoid lumps.
- Do not overheat the mixture — remove from heat as soon as it starts to bubble.
- Let the fudge chill fully before slicing for clean, smooth cuts.
- Store in the fridge for up to 1 month or freeze for up to 3 months.
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