Peanut butter fudge is the perfect combination of creamy, nutty goodness and melt-in-your-mouth sweetness. This classic treat is not only simple to make but also highly versatile.
Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
- Quick & Easy: This no-bake recipe can be made in under 20 minutes!
- Few Ingredients: Only a handful of pantry staples required.
- Customizable: Adapt the recipe to include chocolate, marshmallows, or even a dairy-free option.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gifting, parties, or a simple sweet treat at home.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Peanut Butter Fudge
- Consistency is Key: Use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches 234–240°F for the ideal fudge texture.
- Butter Quality Matters: High-quality unsalted butter ensures a rich and creamy fudge.
- No Grainy Fudge: Stir constantly to dissolve sugar completely before boiling; undissolved sugar crystals can result in a gritty texture.
- Use Parchment Paper: This makes removing and cutting the fudge much easier.
- Don’t Over-Stir: After adding peanut butter, stir just enough to combine. Over-stirring can make the fudge crumbly.
Fun Variations to Try
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge: Add ½ cup of melted chocolate to the mixture for a swirled or layered effect.
- Marshmallow Fluff Fudge: Fold in 1 cup of marshmallow fluff for a lighter, fluffier texture.
- Crunchy Delight: Use crunchy peanut butter or sprinkle chopped peanuts on top for added texture.
- Salted Peanut Butter Fudge: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the fudge before setting for a sweet-and-salty twist.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter with coconut oil and milk with almond milk for a vegan-friendly treat.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Fudge
- As-Is: Enjoy straight out of the pan for a classic experience.
- On a Dessert Platter: Pair it with other treats like brownies, cookies, and truffles for a festive spread.
- Drizzle It: Top with melted chocolate, caramel, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra decadence.
- With Coffee or Tea: The rich sweetness pairs perfectly with a hot cup of your favorite brew.
Storage Tips for Peanut Butter Fudge
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Refrigeration: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- Freezing: Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Recipe FAQs
Q: Can I use natural peanut butter?
A: Yes, but make sure it’s well-stirred to avoid separation in the fudge. Natural peanut butter may result in a slightly softer texture.
Q: Why is my fudge grainy?
A: Graininess usually occurs when sugar crystals aren’t fully dissolved. Ensure you stir thoroughly and heat to the proper temperature.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch pan for larger batches, and adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure even heating.
Q: How do I fix fudge that didn’t set?
A: If your fudge is too soft, you can reheat it with a bit more sugar and milk, then cook to the correct temperature before setting again.
Q: What’s the best way to gift peanut butter fudge?
A: Wrap pieces in wax paper or place them in decorative tins. Add a ribbon or tag for a personal touch!
Peanut Butter Fudge
Peanut butter fudge is the perfect combination of creamy, nutty goodness and melt-in-your-mouth sweetness. This classic treat is not only simple to make but also highly versatile.
Ingredients
- 2 cups brown sugar, packed
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- ½ cup salted butter
- 1 cup peanut butter
Instructions
- Prep Your Pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment or buttered aluminum foil for easy removal.
- Make the Base: In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar, milk, and butter. Heat over medium-high, stirring often, until it boils. Boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Mix It Up: Stir in peanut butter and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate Sugar: Pour the hot mixture over the powdered sugar in a large bowl. Beat with a hand mixer until fully combined and smooth.
- Set the Fudge: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Let it sit at room temperature for 3 hours to set.
- Slice & Enjoy: Once fully cooled, cut into squares and dig in!
Nutrition Information
Yield
36Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 142Total Fat 6gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 3gCholesterol 7mgSodium 60mgCarbohydrates 21gFiber 0gSugar 20gProtein 2g
TastyFitnessRecipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although tastyfitnessrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts: Mastering Peanut Butter Fudge
Peanut butter fudge is a timeless treat that brings joy to any occasion. Its creamy texture, rich flavor, and endless customization options make it a must-try recipe for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. With the tips and tricks in this guide, you’re ready to create fudge that’s guaranteed to impress.