Easiest Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as biting into a creamy, rich piece of peanut butter fudge. Whether it’s a treat for the holidays, a homemade gift, or a nostalgic snack, this indulgent dessert is beloved for its irresistible flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. The best part? You don’t have to be a seasoned baker to make it!

This foolproof peanut butter fudge recipe is simple, versatile, and absolutely delicious. By the end of this post, you’ll feel confident enough to whip up your own batch—even if it’s your first time making fudge! Plus, we’ll share tips, variations, and storage advice to help you customize your creation and keep it fresh.

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Ingredients for Peanut Butter Fudge

To make this creamy peanut butter fudge, you’ll only need a handful of simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

What You’ll Need

• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cut into cubes)
• 1/2 cup whole milk or evaporated milk
• 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter (natural or commercial)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Optional Substitutions

• Butter: Swap unsalted for salted butter (omit the extra pinch of salt in the recipe).
• Milk: Use almond milk or oat milk instead for a dairy-free fudge.
• Peanut Butter: Prefer crunchy over creamy? Go for it! Alternatively, almond butter or cashew butter works well if you have dietary restrictions or just fancy a flavor twist.
• Sugar: While granulated sugar is ideal, you can sub it with light brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, we’re ready to get started. But first, here’s a quick rundown of what tools you’ll need.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Medium saucepan
• Candy thermometer (optional but highly recommended)
• Heat-resistant spatula
• Mixing bowl
• 8×8-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil

These tools ensure smooth prep and make cleanup a breeze. If you don’t have a candy thermometer, don’t worry—we’ll explain how to get the consistency just right.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Peanut Butter Fudge

Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of creamy, dreamy peanut butter fudge in no time.

1. Prepare Your Pan

Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving extra to hang over the edges for easy removal later. Lightly grease the lining to prevent sticking.

2. Combine Sugar, Butter, and Milk

In a medium saucepan, mix together the sugar, butter, and milk. Place it over medium heat and stir constantly until the butter is fully melted.

3. Bring to a Boil

Continue heating and stirring the mixture until it reaches a full boil. At this point, you can attach a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan. Your goal is to reach about 234°F (the soft-ball stage).

No thermometer? A quick test is to drop a small portion of the mixture into a glass of cold water. If it forms a soft, malleable ball, you’re good to go!

4. Mix in Peanut Butter and Vanilla

Once the mixture reaches the correct temperature, remove it from heat. Quickly stir in the peanut butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.

5. Pour and Set

Immediately pour the mixture into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Allow it to cool at room temperature for about 2 hours or until set.

6. Slice and Serve

Once firm, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Slice it into small squares, and you’re ready to serve!

Expert Tips and Tricks for Foolproof Fudge

• Don’t Skip the Thermometer: Precision is key when making fudge. A candy thermometer takes the guesswork out of reaching the soft-ball stage.
• Work Quickly: Once you remove the mixture from heat, the fudge will harden fast. Have all your mix-ins and tools ready!
• Room Temperature Storage: Always store your fudge in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its texture and flavor.
• Double Boiler for Beginners: Nervous about scorching your mixture? Use a double boiler to better control the heat.

Fun Variations to Try

Peanut butter fudge is incredibly versatile. Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl: Mix melted chocolate into the fudge for a marbled effect.
• Salty-Sweet Pretzel Crunch: Sprinkle crushed pretzels over the top before it sets.
• Holiday Peppermint Twist: Add crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and natural peanut butter.

No matter how you customize it, this fudge recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

How to Store Your Peanut Butter Fudge

Proper storage is essential if you want your fudge to stay fresh and flavorful.

At Room Temperature:

Store in an airtight container for up to a week. Layer parchment paper between pieces to prevent sticking.

Refrigeration:

Prefer a firmer texture? Pop your fudge in the fridge, where it will last for up to two weeks.

Freezing:

For long-term storage, freeze your fudge in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.

Turn Nostalgia Into a Sweet Treat!

There’s something uniquely heartwarming about homemade peanut butter fudge. Maybe it’s the creamy texture, the sweet peanut aroma, or the memories it stirs of Grandma’s kitchen. Whatever the reason, this foolproof recipe is a must-try for any dessert lover or home baker.

Now it’s your turn! Whip up a batch today and share your photos or feedback with us in the comments below. Who knows? This might just become your next favorite crowd-pleasing treat.

Happy baking!

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