If you love the rich, nutty goodness of peanut butter combined with the creamy sweetness of fudge, then you are going to adore this Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe. It’s a delightful treat that melts in your mouth with every bite, and the best part is how simple it is to make. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just want a fuss-free but indulgent dessert, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for satisfying those sweet cravings!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing this fudge’s perfect texture and flavor. Each contributes something special, from creamy richness to that iconic peanut butter punch and smooth sweetness.
- 3 cups granulated sugar: The foundation of your fudge’s sweetness and structure.
- 1 (5-ounce) can evaporated milk (about 2/3 cup): Adds creaminess and smoothness without thinning the fudge.
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (12 tablespoons): Essential for that luscious melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1/3 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy): The star flavor that makes this fudge unforgettable.
- 1 (10-ounce) package peanut butter chips: Melt into the fudge for extra depth and peanut butter intensity.
- 1 (7-ounce) jar marshmallow creme: Gives the fudge that light, fluffy quality and balances the richness.
- 1/4 cup salted peanuts (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and salty contrast if you want some texture.
How to Make Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Start Cooking
Begin by buttering an 8×8-inch baking dish or spraying it with nonstick cooking spray to ensure your fudge won’t stick. Then combine the sugar, evaporated milk, and butter in a medium, heavy-bottomed pot. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it reaches a gentle boil. This step lays down the rich base of your fudge, so steady attention here means perfect results.
Step 2: Boil to Perfection
Once your mixture is boiling, keep stirring constantly and let it boil for about 5 minutes. Using a candy thermometer, check until the temperature hits 235°F – the “soft ball” stage. This precision heat level ensures your fudge will set just right: neither too hard nor too soft.
Step 3: Blend in the Goodness
Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the peanut butter, peanut butter chips, and marshmallow creme. Stir until the mixture turns smooth and creamy, like velvet. If you opted for salted peanuts, fold them in now, reserving a few to sprinkle on top for a pretty finish and extra crunch.
Step 4: Set and Chill
Pour your luscious mixture into the prepared baking dish without delay. Spread it evenly, then let it cool completely at room temperature or in the fridge. When set, cut into squares and enjoy your homemade peanut butter heaven!
How to Serve Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of crushed peanuts on top adds eye appeal and a satisfying crunch. For a little extra flair, drizzle some melted chocolate or lightly dust with powdered sugar. These tiny touches turn a delicious treat into a beautiful dessert centerpiece.
Side Dishes
Pair your fudge squares with fresh fruit like crisp apple slices or juicy strawberries to balance the richness. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side also complements the chewy, nutty sweetness splendidly, making your snack feel like a decadent celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap individual fudge pieces in colorful parchment paper or place them in decorative mini cupcake liners when gifting. Arrange them artfully on a dessert platter with nuts and chocolate shavings for a crowd-pleasing display. These creative touches can make the experience even more special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Fudge keeps perfectly for up to two weeks when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Make sure to keep it away from direct sunlight or heat sources so it doesn’t soften too much or lose its texture.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover fudge by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will hold well for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if it feels too hard after storage or freezing, let it sit on the counter for a few minutes to soften naturally. Avoid microwaving as it can easily melt and lose texture.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds a delightful bit of texture inside the fudge, making it even more interesting. Just know it might make the final fudge a little less smooth, but still delicious.
What is marshmallow creme, and can I substitute it?
Marshmallow creme helps make the fudge fluffy and smooth. You can substitute it with an equal amount of marshmallow fluff if that’s what you have on hand. Avoid regular marshmallows as they won’t melt the same way.
Why use evaporated milk instead of regular milk?
Evaporated milk has less water content and a slightly caramelized flavor, which helps the fudge set properly and adds depth to the taste. Using regular milk can make your fudge too runny and prevent it from firming up.
Can I skip the peanuts if I have an allergy?
Definitely! You can omit the peanuts and still have a fantastic peanut butter fudge by relying on the peanut butter chips for that flavor. Just skip the garnishing nuts and be mindful of cross-contamination.
Why does the candy thermometer need to reach 235°F?
Reaching the soft ball stage at 235°F ensures your sugar mixture has the right consistency for fudge. Heating it too little or too much can result in fudge that is either too soft or too hard and crumbly.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe is a shining example of how a few well-chosen ingredients and simple steps can create something truly special. It’s perfect not only for satisfy your sweet tooth but also to share joy with friends and family whenever you want. Go ahead, grab your ingredients, and make this fudge your new favorite treat!
Print
Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy peanut butter fudge recipe creates a rich, creamy, and satisfyingly sweet treat perfect for peanut butter lovers. Combining classic fudge ingredients with a peanut butter twist, it features a smooth blend of granulated sugar, evaporated milk, butter, peanut butter, peanut butter chips, and marshmallow creme. The fudge is boiled to the soft ball stage, stirred until creamy, and then poured into a baking dish to cool and set. Finished with optional salted peanuts for an extra crunch, this homemade fudge is ideal for holidays, gifts, or anytime you crave a buttery, nutty dessert.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 (5-ounce) can evaporated milk (about 2/3 cup)
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (12 tablespoons)
Peanut Butter Mixture
- 1/3 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- 1 (10-ounce) package peanut butter chips
- 1 (7-ounce) jar marshmallow creme
Optional Topping
- 1/4 cup salted peanuts, chopped (plus some reserved for sprinkling on top)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Butter an 8×8-inch baking dish or spray it with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside to use later for pouring the fudge mixture.
- Cook the sugar mixture: In a medium-sized, heavy pot, combine the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and unsalted butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Boil to soft ball stage: Once boiling, continue to boil for about 5 minutes while stirring constantly. Use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches the soft ball temperature of 235°F (113°C), critical for the perfect fudge texture.
- Mix in peanut butter and chips: Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the peanut butter, peanut butter chips, and marshmallow creme until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
- Add nuts if desired: If using salted peanuts, fold the chopped nuts into the fudge mixture, reserving a few to sprinkle on top for garnish.
- Pour and set: Quickly pour the hot fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature until firm.
- Cut and store: Once set, cut into 24 pieces or desired size. Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Notes
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent burning during boiling.
- Stir constantly while boiling to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can test the soft ball stage by dropping a small amount of syrup into cold water—it should form a soft, flexible ball.
- For crunchier texture, use crunchy peanut butter.
- Store fudge in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Adding salted peanuts on top provides a nice balance to the sweetness.
