Peanut Butter Fudge

If you love rich, creamy desserts, peanut butter fudge is about to become your new favorite treat. This sweet treat is not only delicious but also very easy to make. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can make homemade peanut butter fudge that’s as good as any store-bought kind.

In this blog post, I’ll show you how to make perfect peanut butter fudge from start to finish. Whether you’re an experienced baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and very satisfying. I’ve also included some helpful tips to make sure your fudge turns out smooth and tasty every time.

Get ready to enjoy a dessert that melts in your mouth. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family or keeping all to yourself.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter
• Creamy peanut butter
• Salt
• Vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar, sifted

How To Make Peanut Butter Fudge

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Grease the Pan: Use an 8-inch square non-stick baking dish for even thickness and easy removal of the fudge. Grease the dish with butter, or line it with parchment paper and grease the parchment to prevent sticking.

Pro Tip: Allow some parchment paper to overhang the edges of the pan. This acts as a handle for lifting the fudge out once it’s set, making cutting easier.

Step 2: Make the Fudge Mixture

Melt the Butter and Peanut Butter: In a medium saucepan, combine the butter and peanut butter.Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent it from sticking to the pan.Once it begins to gently boil, remove it from the heat.

Pro Tip: Avoid overheating, as excessive heat can cause the oils in the peanut butter to separate, leading to a greasy fudge.

Step 3: Add the Final Ingredients

Stir in Salt and Vanilla: While the mixture is still warm, stir in the salt and vanilla extract. These should be added at this stage to ensure even distribution.

Incorporate the Powdered Sugar: Gradually sift and mix in the powdered sugar in small batches to prevent lumps. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and lump-free. The mixture will thicken as the sugar is incorporated.

Pro Tip: Use a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon for mixing, as the fudge mixture will become thick and require effort to combine thoroughly.

Step 4: Pour and Chill

Pour the Mixture: Transfer the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly and smooth the surface.

Cover and Chill: Place plastic wrap directly on the surface of the fudge to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until fully set.

Pro Tip: For a faster set time, place the fudge in the freezer for about 30 minutes, but check frequently to avoid freezing it solid.

Step 5: Serve and Store

Cut into Squares: Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut it into bite-sized squares with a sharp knife. For clean edges, wipe the knife between cuts.

Storage: At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week. In the Refrigerator: Keep in a sealed container for up to 1 month. In the Freezer: Wrap pieces individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Substitutions

Butter: Replace with coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version.

Peanut Butter: Substitute with almond butter, cashew butter, sunflower seed butter, or hazelnut spread for different flavors.

Powdered Sugar: Use sugar-free powdered sweeteners (like erythritol or monk fruit) for a keto-friendly fudge.

Flavorings: Replace vanilla extract with maple syrup, almond extract, or a splash of liqueur for a custom flavor.

Variations

Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge: Add 1 cup of melted chocolate chips to the mixture before stirring in the powdered sugar.

Crunchy Peanut Butter Fudge: Use chunky peanut butter or mix in chopped peanuts for added texture.

Peanut Butter Swirl Fudge: Layer or swirl melted chocolate into the peanut butter fudge before it sets.

Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Fudge:

Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle with flaky sea salt before chilling.

Holiday-Themed Fudge:

Add crushed candy canes, colored sprinkles, or mini chocolate chips to the top for festive occasions.

Spiced Peanut Butter Fudge:

Mix in a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cayenne pepper for a warm or spicy twist.

Peanut Butter Coconut Fudge:

Stir shredded coconut into the mixture and sprinkle some on top for a tropical flavor.

Key Steps

• Combine butter and peanut butter in a saucepan.
• Cook until the mixture starts to boil.
• Take the saucepan off the heat.
• Stir in salt, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth.
• Pour the mixture into a prepared baking dish.
• Refrigerate for about 1 hour until set.
• Cut the fudge into squares and enjoy!

Top Tips

• Choose a smooth, commercial peanut butter like JIF or Skippy. Avoid using natural peanut butter because it can separate and turn oily.
• Stick to real butter for the best texture and flavor. Margarine may not set well.
• Sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the mixture to ensure it stays lump-free.
• Melt the butter and peanut butter together first, using either the microwave or stovetop, before adding the other ingredients.
• Be careful not to overcook the fudge. Boil the sugar and milk mixture for exactly 4 minutes from the moment it starts bubbling, then remove it from the heat. Overcooking can make the fudge crumbly.
• Allow the fudge to cool completely before cutting it into squares. Refrigerate it for at least 4 hours to help it set properly.
• To create a swirled pattern on top, use the edge of a spoon to make swirls after pouring the fudge into the pan.
• Customize your fudge by adding mix-ins like chocolate chips or chopped nuts.