Indulge in a sweet, creamy delight with this spectacularly simple Peanut Butter Fudge. Perfect for anyone who craves a rich, nutty treat but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this recipe brings you a luscious dessert in just 10 minutes using only four ingredients.
The smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture pairs wonderfully with your favorite cup of tea or coffee, making it an ideal homemade gift or an anytime snack that everyone will love.
- Requires just four basic ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
- Ready in around 10 minutes with minimal equipment and no candy thermometer needed.
- Perfectly smooth and creamy, with a rich peanut butter flavor that satisfies any sweet tooth.
- Flexible to make in different pan sizes to suit your needs.
Ingredients
- Creamy peanut butter: 1 cup (250g) of smooth peanut butter for that classic nutty richness and silky texture.
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (226g), to add creaminess and balance the sweetness with its subtle dairy flavor.
- Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons, providing a warm depth that complements the peanut butter perfectly.
- Powdered sugar: 3 cups (360g), sifted to ensure a smooth, lump-free fudge with just the right amount of sweetness.
Instructions
- Prepare Your Baking Dish
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Lightly grease an 8-inch square baking dish with butter, then line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This prevents sticking and makes popping out the fudge easier once set.
- Melt Peanut Butter and Butter
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Combine the peanut butter and unsalted butter in a medium saucepan and place over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching. Once the mixture reaches a gentle boil, remove from heat promptly to avoid separation.
- Incorporate Sugar and Vanilla
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Stir in the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. For a slight contrast, optionally add ¼ teaspoon of salt to balance the sweetness.
- Spread and Set
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Pour the fudge mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish, using a spatula to smooth the top. Let it cool at room temperature for several hours or speed up the process by refrigerating it for about 1 hour to solidify.
- Slice and Serve
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Once fully set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the edges of the parchment paper and cut into 1-inch squares. Adjust square size if using a larger pan for ideal portions.
- Using a 9-inch square pan will yield thinner fudge pieces. Cut into 1½-inch squares for the best size.
- Ensure powdered sugar is sifted to avoid gritty texture and lumps in the fudge.
- Refrigeration shortens the setting time but letting fudge cool naturally enhances flavor and texture.
Storage Tips
Store your peanut butter fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer shelf life, refrigerate it where it can stay fresh for up to one month without drying out.
Serving Suggestions
Serve fudge pieces alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful snack. It also pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit for an elevated dessert experience.
- Use creamy peanut butter for the smoothest texture; chunky peanut butter can create uneven fudge.
- Be careful not to overheat the mixture, which can cause the fats to separate and affect consistency.
- Line your pan with parchment paper extending beyond the edges to make lifting the fudge easier and cleaner.
FAQs
- Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
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While you can substitute crunchy peanut butter, the fudge will have a coarser texture due to peanut pieces.
- Do I really have to boil the butter and peanut butter mixture?
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Bringing the mixture to a gentle boil ensures the ingredients fully melt and combine, which creates the perfect fudge texture.
- Can I add other flavors or mix-ins?
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Yes! Try adding mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for extra flavor and texture.
- How do I prevent the fudge from sticking to the pan?
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Lining the pan with parchment paper or foil and lightly greasing it prevents sticking and makes removal easy.
- Can I freeze peanut butter fudge?
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Yes, fudge freezes well. Wrap pieces individually and place in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Peanut Butter Fudge
Equipment
- 1 medium pot
- 1 8-inch square pan or 9-inch pan for thinner pieces
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter 250g
- 1 cup unsalted butter 226g
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar sifted (360g)
Instructions
- Lightly grease an 8-inch square baking dish with butter and line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Combine peanut butter and unsalted butter in a medium saucepan and heat over medium, stirring occasionally until boiling.
- Remove from heat and stir in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and lump-free. Optionally, add ¼ teaspoon salt.
- Pour mixture into prepared pan and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Allow to cool at room temperature or refrigerate until set, about 1 hour.
- Lift fudge out using parchment paper and cut into 1-inch squares.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or refrigerate for up to 1 month.
Notes
- Use a 9-inch square pan for thinner fudge pieces.
- Cut 1.5-inch squares if using a larger pan.
- Store chilled or at room temperature in airtight container.
