Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge

If you’re craving a sweet treat that’s simple to make yet tastes like it came straight from a candy shop, this Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge is the recipe you need. With its silky texture, nutty flavor, and melt-in-your-mouth sweetness, this fudge is a classic dessert that never fails to impress. The best part? You only need a handful of ingredients and less than 20 minutes of active cooking time.

This recipe is perfect for holidays, family gatherings, bake sales, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth on a cozy evening.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: No candy thermometer needed—this fudge comes together in minutes.
• Family Favorite: Creamy peanut butter and brown sugar make this fudge a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples like sugar, butter, and peanut butter.
• Perfect for Gifting: Slice into squares, wrap in wax paper, and share with friends or family.

Ingredients Breakdown

Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect fudge:

• Unsalted Butter (½ cup): Adds richness and ensures a smooth, creamy base.
• Light Brown Sugar (2 cups): Provides a deeper, caramel-like sweetness compared to white sugar.
• Half & Half (5 oz): Contributes creaminess and helps dissolve the sugar properly.
• Creamy Peanut Butter (1 cup): The star ingredient, bringing nutty flavor and a velvety texture.
• Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances the flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
• Powdered Sugar (3 cups): Thickens the fudge while keeping it soft and smooth.

Tips and Tricks

1. Use Quality Peanut Butter: A smooth, no-stir peanut butter works best for texture. Avoid natural peanut butter that separates.
2. Line the Pan Properly: Parchment paper ensures the fudge lifts out easily for cutting.
3. Work Quickly: Once the peanut butter mixture is ready, mix it into the powdered sugar while it’s still warm for a silky finish.
4. Cool Completely: Let the fudge set at room temperature for best results before cutting.

Variations and Customizations

• Chocolate Swirl Peanut Butter Fudge: Swirl in melted semi-sweet chocolate before pouring into the pan.
• Crunchy Fudge: Add chopped peanuts for extra crunch.
• Salted Peanut Butter Fudge: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for a sweet-salty balance.
• Holiday Twist: Mix in crushed candy canes or festive sprinkles for seasonal flair.

Pairing Suggestions

• Hot Beverages: Enjoy with coffee, hot cocoa, or a chai latte.
• Fruit Pairing: Serve alongside fresh strawberries or apple slices for contrast.
• Dessert Boards: Add fudge squares to a dessert platter with cookies, truffles, and chocolate bark.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks for extra freshness.
• Freezer: Wrap fudge squares individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Popular Questions

1. Do I need a candy thermometer for this fudge?
No—this recipe is foolproof and doesn’t require one.

2. Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, but the texture will be less smooth. For best results, stick with creamy peanut butter.

3. Why is my fudge crumbly?
This usually happens if the mixture is overcooked. Stick to the suggested cooking time.

4. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just use a larger pan, like a 9×13-inch dish, to avoid overflow.