Peanut butter fudge is the epitome of a delightful treat that’s both quick and easy to prepare. Its creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture makes it a favorite among sweet lovers and a perfect gift for friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will become a go-to for satisfying your sweet tooth.

This fudge recipe is a classic, bringing together the rich flavors of butter and peanut butter with a smooth, sugary finish. The best part? It requires only a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, yet delivers maximum satisfaction.

Remember it later

Like this recipe? Pin it to your favorite board NOW!

Ingredients Overview

The success of any recipe lies in the quality of its ingredients, and this peanut butter fudge is no exception. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

The powdered sugar is the backbone of the fudge, providing sweetness and structure. To achieve the silky smooth texture that is characteristic of good fudge, it’s important to sift the powdered sugar before incorporating it into the mixture. This step helps prevent any lumps, ensuring the final product is smooth and creamy.

Unsalted butter is another key ingredient, contributing richness and enhancing the flavor of the peanut butter. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the fudge, which is especially important since peanut butter often contains some salt.

Speaking of peanut butter, choosing the right type is crucial. Opt for creamy peanut butter, which blends seamlessly into the fudge mixture, creating a uniform texture. While natural peanut butter may seem like a healthy choice, it can often separate during cooking, leading to an inconsistent final product.

A pinch of salt is added to balance the sweetness, while vanilla extract brings a warm, aromatic note that complements the peanut butter beautifully.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making peanut butter fudge is a straightforward process, but attention to detail can elevate it from good to exceptional.

Start by preparing your baking dish. Butter an 8-inch non-stick baking dish, or if you prefer an easier release, line the dish with buttered parchment paper. This simple step ensures the fudge won’t stick to the pan, making it easy to cut and serve once it’s set.

In a medium saucepan, combine the unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring gently to prevent it from burning. The goal is to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This step is crucial as it allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a rich, flavorful base for the fudge. Once the mixture reaches a boil, promptly remove it from the heat to avoid scorching.

Next, add a pinch of salt and the vanilla extract. Stir these into the hot mixture, allowing the vanilla’s aromatic flavor to infuse the fudge. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing until the fudge is smooth and free of lumps. The powdered sugar should be incorporated slowly to prevent clumping, and the final mixture should be thick and glossy.

Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared dish, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface. This step ensures that your fudge will have a clean, professional appearance when cut into squares.

To prevent a skin from forming on the surface of the fudge, press a sheet of plastic wrap directly onto the top. Place the dish in the refrigerator to set for at least an hour. This cooling time allows the fudge to firm up, making it easier to cut into neat squares.

Once set, remove the fudge from the dish. Use a sharp knife to cut it into squares, wiping the blade between cuts for clean edges. The fudge is now ready to enjoy or package for gifting.

Recipe Tips

Achieving the Perfect Texture and Flavor:
For the best results, ensure your peanut butter is fully incorporated into the butter before adding the powdered sugar. If your fudge is too soft, try refrigerating it for a longer period, or consider reducing the amount of butter slightly. For a firmer fudge, you can also increase the powdered sugar slightly.

Customizing the Fudge:
Add-ins like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a swirl of jam can elevate this simple fudge into something truly special. Stir in your chosen extras just before pouring the mixture into the pan.

Troubleshooting Common Issues:
If your fudge turns out too soft, it may not have boiled long enough or the ratio of ingredients may need adjustment. On the other hand, crumbly fudge can result from overmixing or using too much powdered sugar.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Peanut butter fudge is a versatile treat that pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Enjoy it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon snack. For a more indulgent experience, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

If you’re hosting a gathering, consider creating a dessert platter with an assortment of fudges and other bite-sized sweets. The creamy texture of peanut butter fudge makes it a delightful contrast to crunchy cookies or tangy fruit desserts.

Storing and Preserving Your Fudge

To maintain the freshness and flavor of your peanut butter fudge, store it in an airtight container at cool room temperature. This will keep the fudge soft and chewy for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate the fudge, where it will stay fresh for up to a month. If you prefer a firmer texture, enjoy the fudge straight from the fridge.

For gift-giving, wrap the fudge in wax paper and store it in a decorative tin or box. This not only keeps the fudge fresh but also adds a personal touch to your gift.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of nut butter?
Yes, you can substitute the peanut butter with almond or cashew butter. However, the flavor and texture may vary slightly depending on the type of nut butter used.

How do I prevent the fudge from sticking to the pan?
Lining the baking dish with buttered parchment paper is the most effective way to prevent sticking. Alternatively, thoroughly buttering the dish before pouring in the fudge mixture can also help.

What can I do if my fudge turns out too soft or too hard?
If the fudge is too soft, try refrigerating it for a longer time or adjusting the butter and powdered sugar ratios. If it’s too hard, it may have been overcooked; consider reducing the boiling time slightly in future attempts.

This peanut butter fudge recipe is a delightful treat that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Whether you’re making it for yourself, to share with friends, or to give as a gift, the simplicity and versatility of this fudge make it a recipe worth keeping in your culinary repertoire. Give it a try, and let the creamy, rich flavor of homemade fudge bring a little extra sweetness to your day.

Ingredients

4½ cups (510 g) powdered sugar, sifted
1¼ cups (283.75 g) unsalted butter
1¼ cups (338 g) creamy peanut butter
Pinch of salt
1½ teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare an 8-inch baking dish by buttering it thoroughly, or line it with buttered parchment paper for easy removal, and set it aside.

In a medium saucepan, combine the unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter over medium heat. Stir the mixture gently until it reaches a gentle boil, then promptly remove it from the heat.

Add a pinch of salt and the vanilla extract to the hot mixture, stirring until fully incorporated. Gradually mix in the sifted powdered sugar, ensuring the mixture becomes smooth and free of lumps.

Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared dish, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Press a sheet of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the fudge to prevent a skin from forming, and place it in the refrigerator to set for at least 1 hour.

Once firm, remove the fudge from the dish and cut it into squares. Store the fudge in an airtight container at cool room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for up to 1 month for longer shelf life. Enjoy!