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This peanut butter fudge is as simple as it gets yet irresistibly creamy and rich. It’s perfect for when you want a quick homemade treat using just a few pantry staples that come together in minutes. This fudge has been a go-to for celebrations and last-minute dessert cravings in my house for years, always disappearing fast.
I first made this fudge for a holiday party and got asked for the recipe repeatedly. Now it’s my signature easy treat that everyone looks forward to.
Ingredients
- One cup (two sticks) of unsalted butter: provides a rich buttery base, use fresh for best flavor
- One cup creamy peanut butter, not natural style: creamy texture blends easily and gives classic peanut butter taste
- One teaspoon vanilla extract: enhances and rounds out the flavor, choose pure vanilla for best results
- Quarter teaspoon salt or an eighth teaspoon if using salted butter: balances sweetness and brings out depth
- Three and a half cups powdered sugar: sweetens and thickens the fudge, sift to avoid lumps
Instructions
- Melt and Mix:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, gently melt the butter and creamy peanut butter together. Stir continuously to combine until the mixture is completely smooth, about three to five minutes. This step ensures a creamy texture without lumps.
- Flavor Boost:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Quickly stir in the vanilla extract and salt to boost and balance the flavors. This step helps the vanilla not cook off and the salt prevents the fudge from tasting overly sweet.
- Sweeten and Thicken:
- Gradually add the powdered sugar one cup at a time. Stir thoroughly after each addition until the mixture is thick, shiny, and begins to pull away from the sides of the pan. Taking your time here helps create that perfect fudgy consistency.
- Press and Set:
- Line an 8 by 8 inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour the fudge mixture into the pan and press down evenly using a greased spatula or the bottom of a cup. Pressing firmly ensures smooth, uniform squares later.
- Chill:
- Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least one hour or until the fudge is firm to the touch. Chilling fully before slicing helps keep the squares neat and prevents crumbling.
- Slice and Serve:
- Lift the fudge out of the pan by holding the edges of the parchment paper. Cut into 36 small squares with a sharp knife and enjoy the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth peanut butter goodness.
I still remember the first time my kids tasted this fudge—they immediately declared it "magic peanut butter" and begged for more.
Storage Tips
Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. You can also wrap individual squares in parchment paper and freeze them for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to swap salted butter but reduce added salt to an eighth teaspoon if you do. Natural peanut butter can be used but may alter the texture. For a nut-free version, try sunflower seed butter following the same method.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this peanut butter fudge with a cup of strong coffee or cold milk for a perfect dessert duo. It also makes a lovely homemade gift when boxed with a decorative ribbon.
This peanut butter fudge is quick and satisfying, perfect for any occasion or last-minute sweet craving.
FAQs about Recipes
- → What type of peanut butter works best?
Creamy peanut butter without natural oil separation yields the smoothest fudge texture.
- → Can I use salted butter in this fudge?
Yes, but reduce added salt to balance the overall flavor and avoid excess saltiness.
- → How do I know when the fudge mixture is ready to set?
The mixture becomes thick, glossy, and pulls away from the pan sides, indicating it’s ready for chilling.
- → Is chilling necessary for proper texture?
Yes, refrigerating for about an hour firms the fudge, making it easy to slice and serve.
- → Can I store the fudge for later enjoyment?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks to maintain freshness.