Peanut Butter Fudge

How to Make the Creamiest Peanut Butter Fudge – A Foolproof Recipe for Every Occasion

Introduction

Craving something sweet but easy to whip up? Peanut butter fudge is the answer! This rich, creamy treat strikes the perfect balance between salty and sweet. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, looking for homemade gift ideas, or just indulging in a personal craving, this quick fudge will impress without any hassle. With minimal ingredients and no need for fancy equipment, even beginners can master it on the first try.

This recipe creates three double batches of peanut butter fudge, ensuring there’s enough to share (or keep it all for yourself – we won’t judge!).

Let’s dive into the steps to make this delicious, melt-in-your-mouth fudge!

Why Peanut Butter Fudge is a Treat for Everyone

Peanut butter fudge has something for everyone: it’s sweet but not overly sugary, and the peanut butter adds a luxurious richness that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re satisfying a childhood nostalgia or trying to introduce your kids to classic desserts, this fudge is sure to please all age groups.

Plus, no baking required means it’s a fantastic recipe for busy weekdays or impromptu gatherings. Just a quick boil, mix, and pour—it’s that simple!

Who Will Love This Recipe?

This recipe is perfect for:

• Beginners looking for an easy, no-bake dessert
• Busy families needing a quick snack for kids
• Holiday hosts wanting a crowd-pleasing treat
• Peanut butter lovers seeking their next addiction

If you’re someone who likes desserts with minimal cleanup and a short ingredient list, this peanut butter fudge will soon become your favorite go-to treat.

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Fudge

Here’s everything you’ll need for this creamy peanut butter fudge:

• 1 cup sugar
• ½ cup milk
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

This version doubles the recipe, making it perfect to fit an 11×13 pan, yielding enough fudge for large groups. You can halve it easily if you prefer a smaller batch.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before you get started, gather the following:

• Medium-sized saucepan
• Stirring spoon or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 8×8 or 11×13 greased pan (depending on batch size)
• Parchment paper (optional, for easy removal)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Peanut Butter Fudge

1. Combine Sugar and Milk
   In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and milk. Stir well until dissolved.
2. Bring to a Rapid Boil
   Place the saucepan over medium heat. Once it reaches a rapid boil, let it boil for exactly 2 ½ minutes. Set a timer to avoid overcooking.
3. Remove from Heat and Add Flavor
   Take the mixture off the heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Mix in Peanut Butter
   Add the peanut butter while the mixture is still hot. Stir until the peanut butter is fully melted and the mixture becomes smooth.
5. Pour into the Pan
   Quickly pour the fudge into your greased pan (either 8×8 or 11×13, depending on batch size). Smooth the top if necessary.
6. Let It Set
   Allow the fudge to cool completely before slicing into squares. If you’re in a hurry, pop it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes.

Tips to Perfect Your Peanut Butter Fudge

• Use smooth peanut butter for a creamy texture. If you prefer more crunch, try chunky peanut butter for added texture.
• Don’t overboil the sugar and milk mixture—2 ½ minutes is the sweet spot. Any longer, and your fudge may become grainy.
• Grease your pan well to ensure the fudge doesn’t stick. Alternatively, line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the timer: Boiling for too long can make the fudge too firm and crumbly.
• Not stirring fast enough: Once you add the peanut butter, mix quickly to ensure everything melts evenly.

Recipe Variations and Swaps

• Chocolate-Peanut Butter Fudge: Add ½ cup of melted chocolate chips for a swirl effect.
• Nutty Twist: Stir in chopped peanuts or almonds for extra crunch.
• Vegan Option: Substitute dairy milk with almond or oat milk for a vegan-friendly fudge.

How to Store Peanut Butter Fudge

Store leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For a firmer texture, refrigerate it—it’ll stay fresh for about 2 weeks in the fridge. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent the fudge from drying out.

Can You Freeze Peanut Butter Fudge?

Yes! This fudge freezes beautifully. Place the squares in a freezer-safe bag or container, with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, let the fudge thaw at room temperature for 1-2 hours.

Perfect Pairings for Peanut Butter Fudge

This decadent fudge pairs well with:

• A hot cup of coffee or tea
• Cold milk (a classic!)
• Fruit platters to balance the sweetness
• Vanilla ice cream for a fudge-topped sundae

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?
Yes, but be aware that natural peanut butter may separate and result in a slightly oilier texture.

2. What if I don’t have vanilla extract?
You can skip it, though vanilla adds a lovely aroma. Alternatively, try almond extract for a different flavor.

3. My fudge turned out grainy—what went wrong?
This usually happens if the sugar wasn’t dissolved properly or if the mixture boiled too long.

4. How do I double the recipe?
Simply double all the ingredients and use a larger pan (like the 11×13 mentioned in this recipe).

5. Can I make this fudge without sugar?
You can try sugar substitutes like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener, but the texture may differ slightly.

Conclusion 

There you have it—a simple yet irresistible peanut butter fudge recipe! Whether you’re making it for a party, a holiday gift, or just a personal indulgence, this fudge is sure to become a favorite. The best part? It takes only a few minutes to prepare and doesn’t require fancy tools.

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