Easy Peanut Butter Fudge: A Creamy, No-Fail Homemade Dessert Recipe

The Ultimate Creamy Homemade Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe

This homemade peanut butter fudge is the perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors, creating a melt-in-your-mouth dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious treat that’s perfect for holiday gift-giving, special occasions, or just satisfying your sweet tooth cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe

There’s something nostalgic and comforting about homemade fudge. This recipe takes that classic comfort food and elevates it with rich peanut butter flavor. What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity – no candy thermometer required, no complicated techniques, just straightforward steps that yield perfect results every time.

Perfect Peanut Butter Fudge Preparation Tips

Before diving into this recipe, here are some quick tips to ensure success:

• Room temperature ingredients: Allow your butter and peanut butter to come to room temperature for easier mixing
• Quality matters: Use a high-quality creamy peanut butter for the best flavor and texture
• Prepare ahead: Line your pan with parchment paper before starting for easy removal
• Even cutting: Let the fudge set completely before cutting for clean, neat squares

Ingredients for Perfect Peanut Butter Fudge

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 2 1/4 cups brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 3 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, enhances flavor)

How to Make Peanut Butter Fudge

1. Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely.
3. Add the brown sugar and milk to the melted butter. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a full rolling boil (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Remove from heat immediately once boiling and stir in the peanut butter and vanilla until completely smooth.
5. Gradually add the sifted confectioners’ sugar, stirring until fully incorporated and no lumps remain. The mixture will thicken considerably.
6. Working quickly, pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly with a spatula.
7. Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour until completely set.
8. Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and cut into 1-inch squares.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This peanut butter fudge stores beautifully, making it perfect for advance preparation:

• Counter storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week
• Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 2 weeks when refrigerated
• Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 3 months (wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in freezer bags)
• Gift giving: Layer pieces between parchment paper in decorative tins for perfect holiday gifts

Creative Variations for Peanut Butter Fudge Lovers

While this classic recipe is perfect as-is, here are some delicious variations to try:

• Chocolate Swirl: Swirl in 1/2 cup melted chocolate chips before setting
• Crunchy Texture: Fold in 1/2 cup chopped peanuts or mini chocolate chips
• Sea Salt Topping: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for a sweet-salty contrast
• Cookie Mix-In: Add 1/2 cup crushed peanut butter cookies for texture

Nutrition Information

Per serving (1 small square):

• Calories: 168 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 8mg
• Sodium: 54mg
• Fiber: 0g

Frequently Asked Questions About Peanut Butter Fudge

Why is my peanut butter fudge too soft?

If your fudge isn’t setting properly, you may not have boiled the mixture long enough or added enough confectioners’ sugar. Make sure to bring the mixture to a full rolling boil before adding the peanut butter.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes! Crunchy peanut butter works well if you prefer some texture in your fudge. Just be aware that it may make the mixing process slightly more challenging.

How do I know when my fudge is ready to be poured into the pan?

The mixture will thicken significantly after adding the confectioners’ sugar. It should be pourable but not runny – similar to a very thick cake batter.

Can I halve this peanut butter fudge recipe?

Absolutely! Simply use half of all ingredients and a smaller pan (like a loaf pan) for setting.

Why This Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe Works

The secret to this recipe’s success lies in its simplicity. By melting butter with brown sugar and milk, you create a smooth base that, when combined with peanut butter and confectioners’ sugar, sets up into the perfect fudgy texture. The brown sugar adds depth of flavor that complements the peanut butter beautifully.

Whether you’re a seasoned candy maker or trying fudge for the first time, this foolproof peanut butter fudge recipe is guaranteed to impress. With its rich, creamy texture and intense peanut butter flavor, it’s bound to become a family favorite that you’ll make again and again.