Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and indulgent treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth, you’ve come to the right place. This Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe is a delightful blend of creamy peanut butter and rich sweetness, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re whipping it up for a special gathering or just a cozy night in, this recipe is simple yet impressive. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create a batch of this smooth, melt-in-your-mouth fudge that everyone will adore. Let’s dive into why you’ll keep this recipe on repeat!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile and quick to prepare. Here are a few reasons you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and again:

• Minimal Ingredients: With just six pantry staples, you can make this fudge without complicated shopping trips.
• No Baking Required: Perfect for those hot summer days when you want a sweet treat but don’t want to turn on the oven.
• Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins or toppings to create your own signature fudge.
• Quick to Make: From start to finish, you’ll have fudge ready in about 30 minutes, plus chilling time.
• Kid-Friendly: It’s a fun recipe to make with children, allowing them to help with mixing and pouring.

What to Buy

Before you start, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter: Unsalted is preferred for better control of sweetness.
• 2 cups brown sugar: This adds depth and a rich flavor.
• 1/2 cup half and half: For creaminess; substitutes like whole milk can work too.
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter: The star of the show, make sure it’s smooth for the best texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
• 3 cups powdered sugar: This gives the fudge its signature sweetness and texture.

Tools & Equipment Needed

Having the right tools can make your fudge-making experience even smoother. Here’s what you need:

• Medium saucepan: For melting the butter and combining ingredients.
• Mixing spoon or spatula: To stir everything together; a silicone spatula is great for scraping the sides.
• 9×9 inch baking pan: To set the fudge; line it with parchment for easy removal.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Cooling rack: Optional, for faster cooling, though not necessary.

Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe, Made Easy

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s get started with the step-by-step process of making this Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe.

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Start by lining your 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift the fudge out later.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the 1/2 cup of butter. Stir it occasionally until it’s completely melted and bubbling slightly.

Step 3: Combine Brown Sugar and Half and Half

Add the 2 cups of brown sugar and the 1/2 cup of half and half to the melted butter. Stir continuously until the mixture is well combined and starts to boil. Allow it to boil for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly.

Step 4: Mix in Peanut Butter and Vanilla

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the 1 cup of creamy peanut butter and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until the peanut butter is fully melted and integrated with the mixture.

Step 5: Add the Powdered Sugar

Gradually add the 3 cups of powdered sugar to the peanut butter mixture. Stir well until everything is fully combined and you have a thick, smooth fudge batter.

Step 6: Pour into the Pan

Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface.

Step 7: Chill and Set

Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours or until it’s firm. Once set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut it into squares.

Flavor-Forward Alternatives

While this Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe is delicious on its own, you can easily elevate it with some fun twists. Consider these flavor-forward alternatives:

• Chocolate Swirl: Add 1/2 cup of melted chocolate chips to the fudge mixture before pouring it into the pan.
• Crunchy Peanut Butter: Substitute creamy peanut butter with crunchy for a delightful texture contrast.
• Sea Salt Sprinkling: Top your fudge with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt before chilling for a sweet-and-salty combo.
• Nutty Add-ins: Stir in chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for added crunch.
• Coconut Flakes: Fold in sweetened coconut flakes for a tropical twist.

Insider Tips

For the best results with your Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe, consider these helpful tips:

• Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best texture.
• Stir continuously when boiling to prevent the sugar from burning.
• Allow the fudge to cool slightly before pouring it into the pan to avoid a mess.
• For a creamier fudge, use a higher fat content milk in place of half and half.
• Let the fudge sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting for cleaner slices.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

To keep your Easy Peanut Butter Fudge fresh and delicious, follow these tips:

• Storing: Keep the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• Freezing: Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
• Reheating: If the fudge becomes hard, let it sit at room temperature for a bit before enjoying or gently warm it up in the microwave for a few seconds.

Popular Questions

Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?

Yes, but keep in mind that natural peanut butter may result in a slightly different texture. Make sure to stir it well to combine the oils before using.

What can I do if my fudge is too soft?

If your fudge is too soft, it may need more powdered sugar. You can also refrigerate it longer to help it firm up.

Can I add chocolate chips to the fudge?

Absolutely! Fold in chocolate chips before pouring the fudge into the pan for a delicious chocolate-peanut butter combination.

How do I know when my fudge is ready?

The fudge is ready when it is firm to the touch and has set up well in the refrigerator. It should hold its shape when cut into squares.

If you enjoyed this Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe, here are some more delicious desserts you might want to try:

Save & Share

If you love this Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! You can save it on your favorite recipe boards or share it on social media. Fudge is always better when enjoyed with loved ones!

This Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe is a delightful treat that can be made in no time, making it a perfect addition to your dessert repertoire. Whether you stick to the classic flavor or experiment with add-ins, this fudge is sure to impress. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s get fudging!