Dreamy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe: Homemade Bliss in Every Bite

Creamy peanut butter fudge might just be the sweetest comfort you can whip up in minutes.

Sweet memories of childhood drift through kitchens when this treat emerges.

Chocolate and peanut butter create magic together, melting into a silky smooth experience.

Rich textures promise indulgence without complicated steps.

Simple ingredients blend seamlessly in one pan.

Quick preparation means delightful rewards await you soon.

This decadent dessert will make anyone smile with pure joy.

Why Peanut Butter Fudge Is an All-Time Favorite

• Minimal Ingredient Magic: Craft a delectable dessert with just a handful of simple pantry staples, making this recipe incredibly accessible for home bakers of all skill levels.
• Quick Sweet Satisfaction: Prepare a delightful treat in minutes, perfect for sudden sugar cravings or last-minute gatherings without complex cooking techniques.
• Family Crowd-Pleaser: Develop a universally loved dessert that appeals to both kids and adults, guaranteed to bring smiles around the table with its rich, creamy peanut butter flavor.
• No-Bake Bliss: Enjoy a decadent dessert without turning on the oven, ideal for hot days or when you want to avoid complicated baking processes.

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Fudge

• Milk: A creamy liquid that helps create a smooth and rich fudge texture.
• Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps in creating the classic fudge consistency.
• Peanut Butter: Delivers the signature nutty flavor and creamy component of the fudge.
• Marshmallow Cream: Adds a soft, fluffy texture and helps bind the ingredients together.

• Foil: Helps in easy removal and prevents the fudge from sticking to the pan.
• Butter: Ensures the foil is greased and prevents the fudge from adhering to the lining.

• Sharp Knife: Used for cutting the fudge into neat, even squares after setting.

Step-by-Step Peanut Butter Fudge Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Vessel

Line an 8-inch square pan with aluminum foil, ensuring complete coverage. Grease the foil generously with butter to prevent sticking.

The pan will serve as the resting place for your delectable peanut butter fudge.

Step 2: Create Sweet Liquid Base

Combine milk and sugar in a medium saucepan.

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for exactly 4 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure smooth consistency.

Step 3: Blend Creamy Ingredients

• Peanut butter
• Marshmallow cream

Whisk the ingredients vigorously until they merge into a silky, uniform mixture. The texture should be glossy and free of lumps.

Step 4: Pour and Spread

Carefully transfer the warm mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread the fudge evenly, ensuring a smooth surface.

Gently tap the pan to release any trapped air bubbles.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Place the pan in the refrigerator.

Allow the fudge to cool and solidify completely, which typically takes about 2-3 hours. Resist the temptation to check too frequently.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Once the fudge has set firmly, remove from the refrigerator. Using a sharp knife, cut into uniform squares.

For clean cuts, wipe the knife between each slice with a warm, damp cloth.

Pro Tips for Smooth and Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge

• Line the pan with buttered foil to prevent sticking and make removing the fudge easier.
• Use a candy thermometer for precise temperature control to ensure perfect fudge consistency.
• Opt for high-quality peanut butter with minimal additives for a richer, more authentic flavor.
• Let the fudge cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating to avoid condensation.
• Store the fudge in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper to maintain its texture.

Variations to Try with Peanut Butter Fudge

• Almond Butter Classic: Replace peanut butter with smooth almond butter for a nutty, slightly different flavor profile that maintains the creamy texture.
• Vegan Coconut Fudge: Swap marshmallow cream with coconut condensed milk and use coconut sugar for a plant-based version that's equally rich and indulgent.
• Gluten-Free Chocolate Swirl: Mix in dark chocolate chips before setting to create a marbled effect and add extra depth for those avoiding gluten-containing ingredients.
• Low-Sugar Maple Version: Use sugar-free sweetener and maple extract to reduce overall sugar content while keeping the traditional fudge experience intact.

Pairings That Complement Peanut Butter Fudge

• Complement the rich, nutty peanut butter fudge with a smooth vanilla latte. The coffee's warmth and vanilla undertones perfectly balance the sweet, dense fudge.
• Serve alongside a chilled glass of whole milk. The cool, refreshing drink cuts through the fudge's intense sweetness and provides a classic, nostalgic pairing.
• Elevate the dessert experience with a robust dark chocolate stout. The beer's deep, malty notes harmonize beautifully with the peanut butter's depth and fudge's decadence.

How to Store Peanut Butter Fudge Properly

• Refrigerator Storage: Transfer fudge pieces to an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks, maintaining optimal texture and flavor.
• Freezer Preservation: Wrap individual fudge squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for maximum 3 months, ensuring protection from freezer burn and preserving taste.
• Countertop Caution: Avoid leaving fudge at room temperature for extended periods, as it can soften quickly and lose structural integrity. Store in cool areas for short-term consumption within 2-3 days.
• Thawing Technique: Remove frozen fudge from freezer and let it gradually defrost in refrigerator for several hours. Consume within 24 hours after thawing for best quality and freshness.

FAQs

• Is peanut butter fudge difficult to make?

No, it’s surprisingly simple. With just a few ingredients and basic steps, anyone can create delicious peanut butter fudge at home.

• What type of peanut butter works best?

Creamy, smooth peanut butter is ideal. Avoid natural or separated peanut butter as it might affect the fudge’s texture and consistency.

• Can I make this fudge without marshmallow cream?

Traditional recipes require marshmallow cream for smooth texture and binding. Substituting it might change the final result and texture of the fudge.

• How long does peanut butter fudge last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, peanut butter fudge can last up to two weeks without losing its delicious flavor and texture.

Peanut Butter Fudge

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 19 minutes
• Yield: 16 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Homemade peanut butter fudge delivers rich, creamy indulgence straight from grandma’s kitchen. Chocolate chips and smooth peanut butter combine for a classic sweet treat that melts perfectly in your mouth.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• Butter (for greasing foil)
• 2 cups (480 ml) granulated sugar
• 1–1/3 cups (320 ml) smooth peanut butter
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk
• 1 jar (7 oz/198 g) marshmallow cream

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare an 8-inch square pan by lining it with foil and generously greasing with butter to prevent sticking. Reserve the pan for later use.
2. Combine milk and sugar in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil and maintain a steady simmer for precisely 4 minutes, stirring consistently to prevent scorching.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat and swiftly incorporate peanut butter and marshmallow cream. Whisk vigorously until the mixture transforms into a smooth, homogeneous consistency with no visible streaks.
4. Carefully transfer the molten fudge mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread evenly and eliminate any air pockets.
5. Refrigerate the pan for approximately 2-3 hours, or until the fudge becomes completely firm and solid to the touch.
6. Once fully chilled and set, remove from refrigerator and slice into uniform squares using a sharp, clean knife, wiping the blade between cuts for precise edges.

Notes

• Adapt the fudge for gluten-free diets by confirming all ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially marshmallow cream and vanilla extract.
• Experiment with different nut butters like almond or cashew for unique flavor variations and dietary alternatives.
• Prevent crystallization by avoiding stirring the sugar and milk mixture during initial boiling and using a candy thermometer to monitor precise temperature.
• Store fudge in an airtight container between parchment paper layers in the refrigerator for up to two weeks to maintain optimal texture and freshness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 16
• Calories: 187
• Sugar: 20 g
• Sodium: 67 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 8 mg