If you have a soft spot for rich, creamy sweets that melt in your mouth and fill the kitchen with irresistible peanut butter aroma, this Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe is for you. It’s a game-changer for both peanut butter lovers and anyone who appreciates a decadent treat made with simple ingredients. The luscious blend of peanut butter, buttery sugar syrup, and fluffy marshmallow creme creates a fudge that’s smooth yet satisfyingly textured, perfect for sharing with friends or sneaking a square during a cozy snack moment. Plus, it’s surprisingly straightforward to whip up, making it an ideal homemade delight any time you want to impress without stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to fudge perfection. Each one plays a crucial role in building the rich texture, balanced sweetness, and that classic peanut butter flavor that takes this Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe to the next level.
- 3 cups granulated sugar: The essential sweetener that caramelizes slightly to provide structure and depth.
- 1 (5-ounce) can evaporated milk (about 2/3 cup): Adds creaminess and helps create that smooth melting texture.
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (12 tablespoons): Contributes richness and a silky mouthfeel, ensuring the fudge isn’t too grainy.
- 1/3 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy): The centerpiece flavor, offering that irresistible nutty character.
- 1 (10-ounce) package peanut butter chips: Intensifies peanut flavor and adds a velvety, chocolatey touch with peanut butter goodness.
- 1 (7-ounce) jar marshmallow creme: Brings lightness and fluffiness, balancing the dense sweetness.
- 1/4 cup salted peanuts (optional): Provides a satisfying crunch and a subtle salt contrast when sprinkled inside or on top.
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 with nonstick cooking spray to ensure your fudge doesn’t stick. Having your pan ready to go means you can pour the fudge in as soon as it’s finished, which helps it set beautifully.
Step 2: Combine and Cook the Base
In a medium, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the sugar, evaporated milk, and butter. Heat this mixture over medium, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning. Bring it up to a boil, then maintain the boil for about 5 minutes while stirring constantly to reach a soft ball stage temperature of 235°F. This step is crucial because it determines your fudge’s perfect creamy consistency.
Step 3: Mix in the Peanut Butter Goodies
Once off the heat, it’s time to stir in the peanut butter, peanut butter chips, and marshmallow creme until everything combines into a smooth, creamy mixture. This step makes the fudge irresistibly rich, melding all those flavors into one luscious blend. If you love a little crunch, fold in the chopped salted peanuts now, reserving some to sprinkle on top for a crunchier bite.
Step 4: Pour, Cool, and Cut
Immediately pour the creamy mixture into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Let it cool completely at room temperature until firm, then cut into squares. It holds together nicely and stores well for snacking over several days — a perfect homemade treat that’s always ready to satisfy your sweet tooth.
How to Serve Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a few salted peanuts on top before the fudge sets adds an appealing visual and textural contrast that highlights the nutty flavor even more. For an extra touch, a light dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of melted chocolate can elevate the presentation and delight guests.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs wonderfully with a cup of robust coffee or a cold glass of milk, both of which balance the richness perfectly. You could even serve it alongside fresh fruit slices like apple or pear for a slightly refreshing twist that cuts through the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the fudge squares in a decorative tin tied with a pretty ribbon for gifting. Another fun idea is to use cupcake liners to present individual pieces, making them easy to grab at parties or family gatherings. For a festive occasion, sprinkle colorful sea salt or crushed peanut brittle on top to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Easy Peanut Butter Fudge keeps best stored in an airtight container at room temperature. It should maintain its creamy texture for up to a week, making it perfect for making ahead of time without worrying about spoilage.
Freezing
If you want to stretch this treat further, the fudge freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then pop it into the freezer. When you’re ready, thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving to preserve its texture.
Reheating
Fudge is usually best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not typically necessary. If you want to soften it up slightly, leave it out at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before serving, which makes it perfectly chewy and tender.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will give your fudge some extra texture, which adds a lovely pop to each bite. Just be prepared for a slightly different mouthfeel that’s just as delicious.
Do I need a candy thermometer to make this fudge?
While not mandatory, a candy thermometer helps ensure you reach the perfect soft ball stage for smooth fudge. If you don’t have one, you can test by dropping a small spoon of the mixture into cold water—if it forms a soft, pliable ball, you’re good to go!
Can I substitute peanut butter chips with regular chocolate chips?
You can, but keep in mind it will change the flavor profile from peanut buttery to chocolatey. For authentic peanut butter fudge, the peanut butter chips add that signature taste you don’t want to miss.
What is marshmallow creme, and why is it used?
Marshmallow creme is a fluffy, spreadable form of marshmallow that lightens the fudge’s texture and adds a subtle sweetness. It helps make the fudge creamy and less dense, so it melts beautifully on your tongue.
How long does Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe last?
Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, this fudge will stay fresh and tasty for about a week. For longer storage, freezing is recommended.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe is truly a keeper for anyone who loves straightforward recipes with seriously rewarding results. Whether you’re making it as a cozy treat, a gift, or a party sweet, it’s sure to win hearts with its creamy, nutty goodness. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how simple and delightful homemade fudge can be!
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 creates a rich, creamy, and irresistibly sweet treat that combines classic peanut butter flavor with smooth marshmallow creme and peanut butter chips. Perfect for sharing or gifting, this no-bake fudge sets quickly and delivers a delightful texture with optional crunchy salted peanuts for added contrast.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 (5-ounce) can evaporated milk (about 2/3 cup)
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (12 tablespoons)
Flavorings & Mix-Ins
- 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, chopped, plus extra for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Butter an 8×8-inch baking dish or spray it with nonstick cooking spray and set aside to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Sugar Mixture: Combine granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and butter in a medium-sized, heavy pot. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture comes to a boil to ensure even heating and prevent burning.
- Boil to Soft Ball Stage: Continue boiling the mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature until it reaches the soft ball stage at 235°F. This step is crucial for the right fudge texture.
- Mix in Flavorings: Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the peanut butter, peanut butter chips, and marshmallow creme until the mixture is creamy and smooth. If using, fold in the chopped salted peanuts, reserving a few to sprinkle on top for garnish.
- Set and Cool: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature to set properly before cutting into squares.
- Store: Once set, cut the fudge into desired sizes and store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer for accurate temperature monitoring to ensure perfect fudge consistency.
- Butter or spray the baking pan well to avoid sticking and ease removal of fudge squares.
- For a crunchier texture, use crunchy peanut butter and add salted peanuts.
- Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.
- If fudge is too soft, refrigerate until firm; if too hard, let sit at room temperature before cutting.
