Name: Peanut Butter Fudge
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 cup smooth peanut butter; 1 cup salted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla; 3 1/3 cups powdered sugar

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The moment I think of Peanut Butter Fudge, memories flood back of cozy afternoons spent in the kitchen with my family. There’s something incredibly comforting about the rich, creamy texture of fudge, and the nutty aroma of peanut butter wafting through the air. Growing up, my mom would whip up this delightful treat for special occasions, and I remember eagerly waiting for it to set before sneaking a piece—or two. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a quiet evening at home, making Peanut Butter Fudge has become a cherished tradition in my own kitchen. It’s a simple recipe that brings so much joy, and each bite is a sweet reminder of love and togetherness.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
5 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl

Why This Peanut Butter Fudge Hits Different

Unforgettable Flavor

One of the standout features of Peanut Butter Fudge is its unforgettable flavor. The rich, creamy peanut butter perfectly balances with the sweetness of powdered sugar, creating a taste that lingers long after the last bite. It’s a flavor combination that resonates with both children and adults alike.

Easy to Make

This fudge is incredibly easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip this up. In less than an hour, you can have a delicious treat ready to enjoy, making it perfect for those last-minute gatherings.

Perfect for Sharing

Peanut Butter Fudge is an ideal treat for sharing. Whether you’re bringing a dessert to a potluck, gifting to friends, or simply enjoying with your family, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone loves. I often find myself doubling the recipe just to ensure there’s enough for everyone!

Customizable Treat

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. While the classic version is delicious, you can easily personalize it by adding ingredients like crushed nuts, chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of sea salt on top. Each variation offers a unique twist, making it fun to experiment.

Long-Lasting Sweet

Once you’ve made this fudge, it can last for weeks when stored properly. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prepping or having a sweet treat on hand for unexpected guests.

What to Gather for Peanut Butter Fudge

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for creating the perfect Peanut Butter Fudge. Each element plays an important role in achieving that creamy texture and rich flavor. The key players include smooth peanut butter, which provides the main flavor, paired with salted butter for richness, and powdered sugar to sweeten things up. Let’s take a look at what you will need:

1 cup smooth peanut butter such as Jif: The star of this recipe, providing that beloved nutty flavor.
1 cup salted butter: Adds richness and helps create that creamy texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla: A hint of sweetness that rounds out the flavor profile.
3 1/3 cups powdered sugar: This is what gives the fudge its sweetness and structure.

Making Peanut Butter Fudge

Getting started with your Peanut Butter Fudge is simple and satisfying. You’ll find that each step brings you closer to that sweet, creamy finish. Ready? Let’s dive in!

Prepare your baking dish by lining a 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper or wax paper. This makes it easier to remove the fudge later. Lightly grease the paper to prevent sticking.
Next, take a large microwave-safe bowl and combine peanut butter and butter. Melt these together in the microwave until they are smooth and fully incorporated. This should take about 1 to 2 minutes; keep an eye out to prevent overheating.
Once melted, remove the bowl from the microwave and stir in the vanilla. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add a lovely aroma as you mix.
Next, gradually add in the powdered sugar, stirring continuously until it forms a thick and smooth mixture. This step is crucial as it affects the texture of your fudge—ensure there are no lumps!
Now, pour the creamy fudge mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly. This ensures each piece will look as good as it tastes when you cut them later on.
Place the dish in the fridge for about 2 hours or until the fudge is firm. Patience is key here! If you can’t wait, just let it chill until it’s set enough to cut.
Once firm, remove the fudge from the dish by lifting the parchment paper. Place it on a cutting board and cut it into squares. You could use a sharp knife for clean edges or even a pizza cutter for quicker results!
Serve your delicious Peanut Butter Fudge immediately or store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy every rich, creamy bite!

Things Worth Knowing

Use Smooth Peanut Butter: For the best texture, make sure to use creamy peanut butter rather than crunchy.
Microwave in Intervals: When melting your ingredients, do it in short intervals to prevent burning.
Cool Completely: Ensure the fudge is completely cooled before cutting it to maintain its shape.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add chocolate or nuts for variations that can elevate your fudge.

How to Switch It Up

Sometimes, you might want to add your own twist to the classic Peanut Butter Fudge. Here are some creative ideas to switch things up:

Add Chocolate: Swirl in melted chocolate for a rich chocolate-peanut butter experience.
Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
Salted Caramel: Drizzle some caramel on top before it sets for an extra layer of flavor.
Seasonal Spices: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor profile.
Different Nut Butters: Swap out peanut butter for almond or cashew butter to create unique tastes.

What to Pair With Peanut Butter Fudge

When it comes to serving Peanut Butter Fudge, there are plenty of delightful options that can enhance your experience:

Coffee: Pairing fudge with a strong cup of coffee creates a perfect balance of flavors.
Milk: A classic combination—enjoy with a glass of cold milk for a comforting treat.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Fruit: Fresh fruits like strawberries or bananas can add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the fudge.
Occasions: Perfect for casual get-togethers, birthdays, or any festive celebration. It can also serve as a sweet addition to a picnic.

FAQ

Peanut Butter Fudge can last up to two weeks when stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge. If you decide to freeze it, it can last up to a month. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn. It’s a great treat to have on hand for unexpected guests or late-night cravings!

Yes, you can use natural peanut butter in this recipe. However, the texture might differ slightly, as natural peanut butter contains less sugar and stabilizers. You may need to adjust the amount of powdered sugar to achieve the right consistency. The more oily nature of natural peanut butter may also affect how the fudge sets, so keep that in mind. Overall, it can still work beautifully!

The best way to cut Peanut Butter Fudge is to use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter for straight lines. Before cutting, make sure the fudge has cooled completely and set properly. If the fudge is too soft, refrigerate it for a bit longer. For easier removal, you can lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper.

Absolutely! Adding toppings like crushed nuts, chocolate chips, and sprinkles can take your Peanut Butter Fudge to the next level. If you want to add toppings, sprinkle them on top of the fudge right after pouring it into the dish, before it sets. This way, they’ll stick nicely and add that extra crunch!

Conclusion

In summary, Peanut Butter Fudge is a beloved treat that combines simplicity with rich flavors, perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture and delightful sweetness make it an irresistible choice for dessert lovers. I encourage you to try making this fudge yourself; you won’t regret it!