If you’re looking for a dessert that’s not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious, Peanut Butter Fudge is your answer. This timeless treat is a perfect combination of creamy peanut butter and sugary sweetness, making it a crowd favorite. With minimal ingredients and just a few steps, you can create a fudge that melts in your mouth. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about making the perfect peanut butter fudge, while also ensuring you have all the tips and tricks to rank for the keyword “Peanut Butter Fudge” in search engines like Google.
Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Peanut butter fudge isn’t just any dessert—it’s the perfect blend of nostalgia and sweetness. The smooth, rich texture and bold peanut butter flavor bring comfort in every bite. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned baker, this recipe is simple enough to follow and customize to your taste.
Moreover, fudge is versatile. Want a holiday gift? Make peanut butter fudge. Craving something quick and sweet? This recipe has got you covered. The best part? It only takes a few minutes to prepare, and your family and friends will think you spent hours making it.
The Secret to Perfect Peanut Butter Fudge
To make the best Peanut Butter Fudge, the key lies in balancing your ingredients and timing. Unlike traditional chocolate fudge that requires precise temperatures, peanut butter fudge is more forgiving. However, there are still a few tricks you’ll want to follow:
- Use creamy peanut butter: While crunchy peanut butter adds texture, smooth peanut butter ensures the fudge melts perfectly in your mouth.
- Don’t overcook the sugar mixture: Boiling the sugar for too long can result in grainy fudge, which nobody wants.
- Be quick: Once you add the peanut butter, you’ll need to stir and pour quickly, so the fudge doesn’t set prematurely.
Now, let’s dive deeper into the specifics.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic recipe. These ingredients are pantry staples, which means you can whip up a batch of Peanut Butter Fudge whenever you’re craving something sweet.
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar
You might notice that these ingredients create a smooth, rich fudge that balances sweetness and peanut butter flavor. The powdered sugar ensures a creamy texture, while the vanilla enhances the taste.
Step-by-Step Directions for Peanut Butter Fudge
1. Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, or grease it lightly with butter. This step is important because it ensures that your fudge will release easily from the pan when it’s done. You don’t want your beautifully made fudge sticking, do you?
2. Melt and Mix
In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and whole milk over medium heat. Stir the mixture constantly as it comes to a rolling boil. Let it boil for 2-3 minutes. You’ll notice the sugar dissolving completely—this is exactly what you want to create a smooth base for your fudge.
3. Add Peanut Butter and Vanilla
Once your sugar mixture has boiled, remove the saucepan from heat. Quickly stir in the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract until everything is well combined and smooth. Act fast here, as you don’t want the mixture to cool before it’s fully incorporated.
4. Combine with Powdered Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, sift the powdered sugar to eliminate any clumps. Pour the hot peanut butter mixture over the powdered sugar and stir until the two mixtures are well combined and smooth. This step is where your fudge comes to life—keep stirring until you see a creamy, velvety consistency.
5. Pour and Set
Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula, ensuring that every corner of the pan is filled. Let it cool at room temperature for at least an hour, or until it’s completely set.
6. Cut and Serve
Once your Peanut Butter Fudge is fully set, cut it into squares and serve. Each bite will be smooth, creamy, and packed with that classic peanut butter flavor. Don’t forget to store any leftovers in an airtight container—they’ll keep well at room temperature for about a week.
Notes and Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Fudge
Customize Your Fudge
If you’re feeling adventurous, this Peanut Butter Fudge recipe is highly customizable. Consider adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a swirl of caramel for extra flavor and texture.
Make-Ahead Option
Want to prepare your fudge ahead of time? No problem. You can make this fudge and store it in the refrigerator or even freeze it for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Boiling too long: Over-boiling can cause the sugar to crystallize, resulting in grainy fudge.
- Not mixing thoroughly: Be sure to combine the peanut butter mixture with the powdered sugar fully. Incomplete mixing can leave pockets of sugar in your fudge.
Nutritional Information & Health Benefits
While fudge is definitely a treat, peanut butter adds some nutritional benefits. Peanut butter is rich in protein and healthy fats, making it a slightly better option than some other sweets. Here’s a look at the nutrition details:
Nutrition Details (per serving)
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 200
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 25g
- Vitamin A: 2% DV
- Calcium: 2% DV
- Iron: 2% DV
FAQs
Yes, you can, but keep in mind that natural peanut butter tends to be more oily and less stable. This might affect the final texture of your fudge, making it slightly softer.
At room temperature, peanut butter fudge will stay fresh for about a week in an airtight container. You can also store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or freeze it for up to three months.
If your fudge doesn’t set, it’s likely because the sugar mixture didn’t boil long enough. Unfortunately, there’s no way to fix unset fudge once it’s made, but you can use it as a delicious peanut butter sauce over ice cream or brownies!
Absolutely! You can sprinkle crushed peanuts, sea salt, or drizzle melted chocolate on top before the fudge sets to add some extra flavor and texture.
Peanut butter fudge is a timeless treat that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because you’re craving something sweet, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Follow the tips and steps above, and you’ll have a batch of perfect Peanut Butter Fudge ready to enjoy in no time.
More Relevant Recipes
PrintPeanut Butter Fudge
This Peanut Butter Fudge recipe is a rich, creamy, and decadent dessert that’s easy to make with simple ingredients. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, it’s a melt-in-your-mouth treat that requires minimal effort.
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (including cooling time)
- Yield: 16 squares 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
- Melt and Mix: In a saucepan, combine sugar, butter, and milk over medium heat. Stir constantly until it boils. Let it boil for 2-3 minutes.
- Add Peanut Butter: Remove from heat and quickly stir in peanut butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine with Powdered Sugar: In a bowl, sift powdered sugar. Pour the peanut butter mixture over it and stir until smooth.
- Pour and Set: Spread the fudge evenly in the pan and let it cool at room temperature for about an hour until set.
- Cut and Serve: Once set, cut into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- Avoid Overcooking: Overcooking the sugar mixture can make your fudge grainy. Boil for no more than 2-3 minutes to keep it creamy.
- Room Temperature Storage: Fudge stays best at room temperature, but if you want it to last longer, store it in the fridge for up to two weeks.
- Variations: Feel free to add mix-ins like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a swirl of caramel for a twist on this classic recipe.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Peanut Butter Desserts, Homemade Fudge Recipe, Easy Fudge Recipe