Indulge in the creamiest, smoothest, and most peanut buttery fudge with this simple recipe. Requiring only four ingredients and minimal effort, this treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the fuss. 

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• 1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup (2 sticks or 230g) unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 4 cups (460g) sifted confectioners’ sugar
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 3/4 cup add-ins (e.g., chocolate chips, peanuts, or Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups)

Directions

1. Prepare the Pan: Line an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the finished fudge out.
2. Melt Ingredients: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the peanut butter and sliced butter. Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring after each, until completely melted and smooth.
3. Add Flavorings: Remove from the microwave and stir in the vanilla extract. If a sweet and salty flavor is desired, add the optional 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
4. Incorporate Sugar: Gradually add the sifted confectioners’ sugar to the mixture, stirring until fully combined. The mixture will be very thick, resembling cookie dough.
5. Add Mix-ins (Optional): If using any add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, fold them into the warm fudge mixture until evenly distributed.
6. Set the Fudge: Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan, pressing it down evenly and smoothing the top with a spatula. The surface may appear slightly oily.
7. Chill: Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the fudge is firm.
8. Serve: Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the foil overhang. Cut into small squares and enjoy.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 96
• Total Fat: 3.2g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.3g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 1.1g
• Cholesterol: 4.2mg
• Sodium: 31mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0.2g
  • Sugars: 15g
• Protein: 0.8g
• Potassium: 34.1mg

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Fudge

Peanut butter fudge is a timeless classic that is loved by many for its rich, creamy texture and irresistible peanut butter flavor. This particular recipe stands out because of its simplicity only four main ingredients are needed, making it one of the easiest homemade fudge recipes available. Unlike traditional fudge, which requires careful temperature control and a candy thermometer, this recipe is foolproof, requiring just a few minutes of preparation and minimal effort. One of the biggest advantages of this peanut butter fudge is its smooth, melt-in-your-mouth consistency. Thanks to the combination of butter and confectioners’ sugar, the fudge sets up perfectly without being too hard or grainy. The result is a creamy and luscious treat that satisfies any sweet tooth.

The Secret to Perfectly Smooth Peanut Butter Fudge

Many people shy away from making homemade fudge because they fear it will turn out too hard, too soft, or grainy. The key to achieving the perfect texture is using the right combination of ingredients and mixing them properly. In this recipe, using unsalted butter ensures a rich, creamy base, while confectioners’ sugar helps create a smooth texture without the risk of crystallization that sometimes occurs with granulated sugar. The type of peanut butter used also plays an essential role in the final result. Regular, creamy peanut butter (such as Jif or Skippy) is recommended because it contains stabilizers that help the fudge set properly. Natural peanut butter, which separates and has an oilier consistency, may not yield the same smooth texture. If you prefer a more natural option, you may need to adjust the amount of sugar to maintain the desired consistency.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Beginners

Making fudge from scratch can sometimes feel intimidating, especially for those new to candy-making. However, this peanut butter fudge recipe is virtually fail-proof, making it an excellent choice for beginners. Since it does not require a stovetop or precise temperature control, there is no need to worry about burning or overcooking the mixture. This no-bake recipe is also incredibly quick. Unlike traditional fudge that requires boiling sugar to a specific temperature and then cooling it carefully, this peanut butter fudge comes together in just a few minutes. After mixing the ingredients, the hardest part is waiting for it to chill and set in the refrigerator.

Creative Variations and Add-Ins

While the classic peanut butter fudge is delicious on its own, there are countless ways to customize the recipe to suit different tastes. Here are a few ideas to add variety to your fudge:

• Chocolate Swirl Peanut Butter Fudge: Melt some semi-sweet or dark chocolate and swirl it into the fudge mixture before it sets for a beautiful marbled effect.
• Crunchy Peanut Butter Fudge: If you love texture, use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter, or stir in chopped peanuts for added crunch.
• Reese’s-Inspired Fudge: Chop up Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and fold them into the fudge mixture for an extra layer of peanut butter and chocolate goodness.
• Salted Peanut Butter Fudge: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before chilling for a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.
• Cookies and Cream Peanut Butter Fudge: Crush some chocolate sandwich cookies and mix them into the fudge to add a cookies-and-cream twist.
• Nutty Delight: Add chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts to the fudge mixture for a nutty, crunchy bite.

Best Occasions to Serve Peanut Butter Fudge

Peanut butter fudge is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed on numerous occasions. Here are some of the best times to serve this delectable dessert:

• Holiday Season: Peanut butter fudge is a holiday favorite, perfect for Thanksgiving and Christmas. It makes an excellent homemade gift when packaged in decorative tins or wrapped in parchment paper.
• Birthday Parties: A tray of peanut butter fudge is a great addition to a dessert table, providing a sweet option alongside cakes and cupcakes.
• Bake Sales: Since this fudge is easy to cut into uniform squares and doesn’t require refrigeration, it’s a great item for bake sales and fundraising events.
• Potlucks and Gatherings: Whether it’s a family reunion or a casual get-together with friends, peanut butter fudge is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Movie Nights: This fudge makes a great snack for cozy movie nights at home. Pair it with a bowl of popcorn for a sweet and salty combination.

Storage and Shelf Life

One of the great things about peanut butter fudge is its long shelf life. If stored properly, it can stay fresh and delicious for weeks. Here are some storage tips:

• Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the fudge within a few days, you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Make sure to keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks.
• Freezing: Peanut butter fudge freezes exceptionally well. Wrap individual pieces in wax paper and store them in a sealed container or freezer bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying.

Conclusion

Peanut butter fudge is a simple yet indulgent dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, rich peanut butter flavor, and easy preparation, it’s a must-try recipe for anyone who loves sweet treats. Whether you make it for yourself, share it with family and friends, or give it as a homemade gift, this fudge is sure to impress. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility you can stick to the classic four-ingredient version or experiment with fun add-ins to create your own signature fudge.