Classic Peanut Butter Fudge: Easy, Creamy, and Irresistible
Enjoy ultra-smooth squares that capture the perfect sweet-and-salty harmony every time.
Classic Peanut Butter Fudge
If you’re looking for a tried-and-true sweet treat that combines rich peanut butter flavor with melt-in-your-mouth creamy texture, this classic peanut butter fudge recipe is your answer. With just a handful of staple ingredients and a fuss-free technique, even novice bakers can create a decadent homemade dessert. Reminiscent of bake sales and cherished holiday trays, this fudge brings nostalgia and delight with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: The process is straightforward—with no need for candy thermometers or complicated steps.
- Pantry staples: You likely have all the needed ingredients at home.
- Creamy texture: No grainy, crumbly fudge; just pure, smooth, melt-in-your-mouth bites.
- Perfectly sweet and salty balance: The recipe finds the sweet spot between richness and a touch of saltiness.
- Versatile and giftable: Cut into squares, wrap, and share! It’s perfect for holidays, gatherings, or an everyday pick-me-up.
Ingredients Overview
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | Gives richness and smooth texture |
| Whole Milk | Helps dissolve the sugar and aids in creamy formation |
| Granulated Sugar | Sweetens and thickens when boiled |
| Light Brown Sugar | Adds depth and a hint of caramel flavor |
| Smooth Peanut Butter | The star flavor; makes fudge creamy and nutty |
| Vanilla Extract | Adds warmth and aroma |
| Salt | Balances sweetness |
Step-By-Step Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
- Prepare your pan: Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving excess paper on two sides for easy removal later.
- Boil base ingredients: Combine the unsalted butter, whole milk, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar in a large saucepan. Set over medium heat, stirring frequently as the butter melts and sugars dissolve. Once boiling, continue to stir and boil for 2 to 3 minutes to ensure full incorporation.
- Off heat, add flavor: Remove the pot from the heat. Immediately stir in smooth peanut butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix vigorously until completely smooth and creamy, with no visible streaks.
- Transfer and set: Pour the hot fudge mixture into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
- Chill: Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator. Chill for 2 hours, or until firm and set.
- Cut and serve: Once completely chilled, lift the fudge using the parchment handles, place on a cutting board, and slice into bite-sized squares.
Expert Tips for Foolproof Fudge
- Use smooth (not natural) peanut butter: Classic, shelf-stable peanut butter (such as Jif or Skippy) will yield the creamiest, most stable results. Natural peanut butter can separate and cause graininess.
- Avoid overboiling: Just 2–3 minutes is enough. Overcooking can make the fudge too firm or crumbly.
- Don’t skip the parchment paper: It makes removing and cutting the fudge clean and hassle-free.
- Quick mixing is key: Stir the peanut butter in immediately off heat to create a velvety, homogenous texture.
- Let it set fully before slicing: Chilling is crucial for the proper firmness and clean edges when cutting.
Serving Suggestions
- Holiday trays: Arrange on festive platters with other assorted sweets for parties and family gatherings.
- DIY gifts: Stack squares in cellophane bags or small boxes, tied with ribbon—ideal for holiday sharing or teacher gifts.
- Pair with coffee: Enjoy a square with your afternoon coffee or tea—a comforting pick-me-up treat.
- Peanut butter lovers’ dessert: Serve alongside peanut butter cookies or brownies for a themed dessert buffet.
Fun Variations
- Swirled fudge: Add dollops of melted chocolate, then swirl gently into the fudge before chilling for a chocolate-peanut butter marbled look.
- Crunchy add-ins: Stir in chopped salted peanuts, pretzel pieces, or toffee bits for extra texture and salty contrast.
- Mini marshmallow mix-in: Fold in a cup of mini marshmallows just before pouring into the pan for pockets of gooey sweetness.
- Chocolate-topped: Spread a thin layer of melted chocolate on top of the cooled fudge before chilling for a deluxe treat.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week in a cool, dry place.
- In the refrigerator: Stays fresh for up to 2 weeks—just allow fudge to come to room temperature briefly before serving for the best texture.
- Freezing: For longer storage, wrap squares tightly in plastic and then foil. Place in a freezer-safe bag and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
What others are reading
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
A: Yes! If you enjoy a little texture, substitute crunchy peanut butter or stir in chopped peanuts for added crunch. Just be mindful that very chunky varieties may make the fudge slightly less smooth.
Q: Do I need a candy thermometer for this fudge recipe?
A: No thermometer is needed. This recipe is designed to be low-stress and does not require precise temperature monitoring.
Q: My fudge turned out greasy or separated—what happened?
A: This can occur if you use natural peanut butter, which often has a higher oil content and less stabilizers. Using classic, shelf-stable peanut butter will prevent separation. Over-mixing or overboiling can also cause issues.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch pan and double all ingredients for a bigger batch. Cook times may increase only slightly.
Q: Is this fudge gluten-free?
A: All the core ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check your peanut butter and other items for any added gluten, especially if serving those with allergies.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 |
| Total Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Sugar | 16g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Sodium | 80mg |
Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe Card
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 13 minutes
- Yields: 36 squares
Ingredients:
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 1/4 cups smooth peanut butter (not natural)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Pinch of kosher salt
Instructions:
- Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in milk, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Once boiling, continue to cook and stir for 2–3 minutes.
- Remove from heat. Immediately stir in peanut butter, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth and glossy.
- Pour into the lined pan and spread evenly. Let cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, then refrigerate for 2 hours or until set.
- Lift fudge from pan using parchment handles. Cut into squares and enjoy.
More Fudge Inspiration
- Try swapping peanut butter for almond butter or cookie butter for a delicious twist.
- Mix in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
- Explore layered fudge recipes—start with a base of chocolate, then add peanut butter fudge on top before chilling.
Final Thoughts
With its quick preparation, foolproof results, and deeply satisfying flavor, this classic peanut butter fudge sets the gold standard for homemade confections. Whether you’re making treats for the holidays, surprising a friend with a sweet gift, or simply craving a nostalgic dessert, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen repertoire. Enjoy every creamy, peanut buttery bite!
References
- https://bootstrapped.ventures/seo-for-food-blogs/
- https://www.playwire.com/blog/recipe-site-seo-recommendations-how-to-use-recipe-schema
- https://www.seoclarity.net/blog/rank-recipes-serp-feature
- https://searchengineland.com/the-ultimate-recipe-for-writing-seo-optimized-content-388941
- https://www.linkgraph.com/blog/recipe-blog-seo-boost-your-rankings-with-best-practices/
- https://foodiedigital.com/seo-tips-for-food-bloggers/
- https://autopagerank.com/seo-for-recipe-blogs-my-proven-strategies-for-skyrocketing-traffic/
- https://www.chefadora.com/blog/what-makes-a-recipe-seo-friendly-how-chefadoras-recipe-genie-helps-you-rank-higher-on-google
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