Get ready to indulge in a melt-in-your-mouth treat with this Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe. This delightful confection blends creamy peanut butter and rich marshmallow creme with just the right touch of sweetness to create a fudge that’s irresistibly smooth and packed with flavor. Whether for gift-giving, a party snack, or a cozy night in, this fudge is simple to make and guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe calls for ingredients that you likely already have on hand, yet each plays a crucial role in building that perfect balance of texture, flavor, and color. From the velvety peanut butter chips to the luscious marshmallow creme, every element comes together seamlessly.
- Granulated sugar: The main sweetener that creates the classic fudge base and provides structure when cooked.
- Evaporated milk: Adds creamy richness without thinning the mixture, helping achieve the perfect fudgy texture.
- Unsalted butter: Offers a smooth mouthfeel and helps prevent the sugar from crystallizing, making your fudge silky.
- Peanut butter (creamy or crunchy): Packs that deep peanut flavor and, if crunchy, adds a delightful bit of texture.
- Peanut butter chips: Enhance the peanut taste while melting to create an even smoother fudge consistency.
- Marshmallow creme: Gives the fudge its characteristic soft, chewy texture and a gentle sweetness.
- Salted peanuts (optional): Provide a crunchy contrast and a touch of saltiness that balances the sweet, rich fudge.
How to Make Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by buttering an 8×8-inch baking dish or spraying it generously with nonstick cooking spray. This step ensures the fudge won’t stick and will come out easily once it’s set.
Step 2: Cook the Sugar Mixture
Combine the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and unsalted butter in a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed pot. Over medium heat, stir frequently and bring the mixture to a boil. This is where the magic begins as the sugar dissolves and the milk and butter melt into a luscious syrup.
Step 3: Boil to the Perfect Temperature
Keep the mixture boiling for about five minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Aim for a soft ball stage of 235°F using a candy thermometer — this precise temperature is the secret to achieving that smooth but firm fudge texture.
Step 4: Combine Peanut Butter and Other Ingredients
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the peanut butter, peanut butter chips, and marshmallow creme. Stir vigorously until the mixture is creamy and smooth. If you’re including salted peanuts, fold those in now, reserving some to sprinkle on top for extra flair.
Step 5: Set and Cool
Pour the warm fudge mixture immediately into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula if needed. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature — patience here rewards you with perfect slices.
How to Serve Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of salted peanuts or a light drizzle of melted chocolate can elevate your fudge’s appearance and add contrasting flavors. For an extra festive touch, try toasting the peanuts before sprinkling them on top for a nutty aroma and crunch.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, a cup of strong coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience. Offering these alongside your fudge will delight guests and balance the sweetness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your fudge into bite-sized squares and stack them artistically on a decorative platter for parties. You can also wrap individual pieces in parchment paper tied with a colorful ribbon to create charming homemade gifts that show you care.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your fudge is cut, place the pieces in an airtight container to keep them fresh and moist. Stored at room temperature, they will stay delicious for about one week — perfect for enjoying a little treat every day.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe longer, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. This way, your fudge can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating
Fudge is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, but if you prefer it softer, let it thaw at room temperature. Avoid microwaving, which can alter the texture and make the fudge grainy or overly soft.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add some extra texture and nutty bits, making your fudge irresistibly chewy. It’s a great way to personalize this Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe.
What if I don’t have marshmallow creme?
Marshmallow creme contributes to the fudge’s softness and a subtle sweetness. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with mini marshmallows melted into the mixture or increase the peanut butter chips slightly to maintain the texture.
Do I need a candy thermometer for this recipe?
Using a candy thermometer helps ensure you reach the perfect soft ball stage and get the right fudge texture. However, if you don’t have one, the cold water test (dropping a bit of the boiled mixture into cold water to see if it forms a soft ball) can work too.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
While this recipe relies on dairy products like butter and evaporated milk, you can experiment with vegan butter and plant-based milks for a dairy-free version, though the texture and flavor might vary slightly from the original.
How long does this fudge take to set?
Typically, the fudge will need several hours at room temperature to cool and firm up, but for quicker results, you can refrigerate it for about an hour until it’s fully set and ready to slice.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to add a little joy to your day or whip up a crowd-pleasing dessert fast, this Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe will not disappoint. It’s a lovingly simple way to create something truly special with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness. I can’t wait for you to try it out, share it, and savor every creamy, nutty bite!
Print
Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy peanut butter fudge recipe delivers a creamy, rich, and irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients like granulated sugar, evaporated milk, peanut butter, and marshmallow creme, it’s a quick and delightful dessert that combines smooth peanut butter flavor with a luscious fudge texture. Perfect for sharing or indulging, this fudge is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Fudge Ingredients
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 (5-ounce) can evaporated milk (about 2/3 cup)
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (12 tablespoons)
- 1/3 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- 1 (10-ounce) package peanut butter chips
- 1 (7-ounce) jar marshmallow creme
- 1/4 cup salted peanuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Butter an 8×8-inch baking dish or spray it with nonstick cooking spray and set aside. This will prevent the fudge from sticking and make removal easier.
- Cook the Sugar Mixture: Combine the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and unsalted butter in a medium-sized, heavy pot. Cook over medium heat while stirring frequently until the mixture comes to a boil to prevent scorching.
- Boil to Soft Ball Stage: Once boiling, continue to boil the mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Use a candy thermometer to ensure the temperature reaches the soft ball stage, approximately 235°F. This stage is crucial for the fudge’s proper texture.
- Add Peanut Butter and Mix-ins: Remove the pot from heat. Immediately stir in the peanut butter, peanut butter chips, and marshmallow creme until the mixture is creamy and smooth. If adding salted peanuts, fold them in now, reserving a few to sprinkle on top.
- Set the Fudge: Pour the fudge mixture quickly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved nuts on top if used. Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature until firm.
- Cut and Store: Once set, cut the fudge into squares as desired. Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer for best results to achieve the perfect fudge consistency.
- For crunchy texture, use crunchy peanut butter and add salted peanuts.
- Store fudge at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 1 week or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
- If fudge is too soft, cook the sugar mixture a little longer next time to reach a higher temperature.
- Ensure constant stirring during boiling to avoid burning or crystallization.
