Welcome to the world of effortless indulgence! If you’re searching for “Peanut Butter Fudge” that’s unbelievably creamy, ridiculously easy to make, and utterly delicious, then you’ve landed in the perfect spot. This 4-ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge recipe delivers a rich, melt-in-your-mouth treat that will satisfy even the most intense sweet cravings. Forget complicated candy thermometers and endless stirring; this recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort, ensuring a perfect batch every single time. Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite sweet escape!
Key Ingredients for Peanut Butter Fudge
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this irresistible Peanut Butter Fudge:
- 1 ½ cups smooth peanut butter: Opt for a creamy, commercial-style peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy) rather than natural, oil-separated varieties. The emulsifiers in conventional peanut butter are key to achieving that perfectly smooth and firm fudge texture.
- ½ cup unsalted butter: Cut into 1-inch pieces. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the fudge. If you only have salted butter, omit the added salt in the recipe instructions below.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A good quality vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile, adding warmth and depth to the sweet and nutty notes.
- 3 cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar): Sifted is best to prevent lumps, but if you don’t have a sifter, make sure to whisk it well to break up any clumps. Powdered sugar is essential for achieving the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture of fudge.
How to Make Peanut Butter Fudge
This Peanut Butter Fudge recipe is a dream come true for dessert lovers – easy, incredibly delicious, and deeply satisfying. Its simplicity is its superpower; with just four ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you’ll create a rich, creamy fudge that tastes like it took hours to prepare. The smooth, velvety texture paired with intense peanut butter flavor makes it an instant classic. Preparation time is a mere 10 minutes, with a few hours of chilling for perfection.
● Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare Your Pan: Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray. Line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides; this will make it easy to lift the fudge out later. Set aside.
- Melt Butter and Peanut Butter: In a medium-sized microwave-safe bowl (or a saucepan over low heat on the stovetop), combine the smooth peanut butter and the cut-up unsalted butter.
- Microwave/Stovetop Melting:
- Microwave Method: Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until completely melted and smooth. This usually takes about 1 ½ to 2 minutes total. Be careful not to overheat.
- Stovetop Method: Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until both the peanut butter and butter are fully melted and combined into a smooth mixture.
- Add Vanilla: Remove the mixture from the heat (or microwave) and stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The aroma will instantly make your kitchen smell amazing!
- Incorporate Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the peanut butter mixture, ½ cup at a time, stirring vigorously after each addition. Continue to stir until all the powdered sugar is fully incorporated and the mixture is thick, smooth, and evenly combined. It will be quite stiff, but keep stirring until no dry streaks of sugar remain.
- Pour into Pan: Immediately transfer the warm fudge mixture into your prepared 8×8-inch pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth out the top.
- Chill: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours, or until the fudge is completely firm and set. For quicker setting, you can place it in the freezer for about 30-45 minutes.
- Cut and Serve: Once firm, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge block out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and cut it into 1-inch squares. Serve and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Fudge
You are going to absolutely adore this Peanut Butter Fudge for so many reasons, but let’s highlight what makes it truly special. The main draw is undoubtedly its unparalleled creaminess; each bite melts like a dream, delivering that comforting, rich peanut butter flavor without any grittiness. Making it at home also offers incredible cost savings compared to store-bought varieties, allowing you to indulge in a luxurious treat without breaking the bank. What truly elevates this fudge are the simple yet perfect flavors – the balance of sweet and savory from the peanut butter and butter, enhanced by a hint of vanilla.
This fudge is miles ahead of many complicated recipes; it’s a quick win for your sweet tooth. Just like our popular No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars, this recipe proves that deliciousness doesn’t require an oven or a culinary degree. So, why wait? Give this incredible Peanut Butter Fudge a try tonight, and prepare to be amazed by how easy and delicious homemade can be!
What to Serve Peanut Butter Fudge With
While Peanut Butter Fudge is a decadent standalone treat, here are some delightful pairings to enhance the experience:
- A Cold Glass of Milk: The classic pairing! The richness of the fudge is perfectly平衡 by the refreshing coolness of milk.
- Coffee or Espresso: The slight bitterness of coffee cuts through the sweetness of the fudge beautifully, creating a sophisticated dessert experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Crumbled or cubed fudge pieces make an incredible topping for a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, adding texture and intense peanut flavor.
- Hot Chocolate: Enjoy a square of fudge alongside a warm mug of hot chocolate for ultimate comfort, especially on a chilly evening.
- A Sprinkle of Sea Salt: For those who love a sweet and salty combination, a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt justo before serving can elevate the flavors remarkably.
- Mixed Berry Compote: A tart fruit counterpoint, like a quick berry compote, can offer a refreshing contrast to the fudge’s richness.
Top Tips for Perfecting Peanut Butter Fudge
Achieving perfect Peanut Butter Fudge every time is incredibly easy with a few insider tips:
- Peanut Butter Choice is Key: Stick to smooth, commercial-style peanut butter (like Jif, Skippy, or Peter Pan). Natural peanut butter, which separates oil, will result in a greasier, less stable fudge that won’t set properly. The emulsifiers in regular peanut butter are crucial for the fudge’s creamy texture.
- Sift Your Powdered Sugar: This is a small step that makes a huge difference. Sifting the powdered sugar prevents lumps, ensuring a silky-smooth fudge. If you don’t have a sifter, whisk the sugar vigorously in a bowl before adding it to break up any big clumps.
- Don’t Overheat: When melting the peanut butter and butter, heat gently. Whether using a microwave or stovetop, go low and slow. Overheating can cause the butter to separate and affect the final texture. Just melt until combined, not boiling.
- Stir Vigorously: Once you add the powdered sugar, rapid and thorough stirring is essential. You need to incorporate all that sugar quickly and evenly before the mixture starts to cool and set. Don’t be afraid to put some muscle into it!
- Grease and Line Your Pan: Don’t skip lining your pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang. This makes unmolding the fudge an absolute breeze and prevents any sticking. A lightly greased pan ensures easy removal of the paper.
- Chill Completely: Patience is a virtue here. For clean, sharp cuts and a firm texture, ensure the fudge is thoroughly chilled and completely set before slicing. Rushing this step will result in a softer, messier fudge.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Proper storage is key to keeping your Peanut Butter Fudge fresh and delicious.
When stored correctly, this fudge can last for a good while, allowing you to enjoy a piece whenever a craving strikes.
- Refrigeration: The best way to store Peanut Butter Fudge is in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain its firm texture and prevents it from becoming too soft or melting. It will stay fresh for up to 2-3 weeks in the fridge. We recommend placing wax paper or parchment paper between layers of fudge to prevent sticking.
- Room Temperature (Short Term): If your kitchen is cool (below 70°F or 21°C), you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-5 days. However, it will likely be softer than when refrigerated. Avoid warm or humid environments, as the fudge will quickly become sticky and lose its shape.
- Freezing: For longer storage, Peanut Butter Fudge freezes beautifully. Wrap individual pieces or blocks tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Label with the date. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating (Thawing): Fudge generally isn’t reheated in the traditional sense, as it’s meant to be enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled.
- From Refrigerator: Simply take it out of the fridge about 15-30 minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly and become more palatable.
- From Freezer: Transfer frozen fudge to the refrigerator overnight to thaw gradually. Alternatively, you can let it sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours. Once thawed, it should be just as delicious as freshly made.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Fudge recipe isn’t just about making a sweet treat; it’s about discovering the joy of effortless indulgence. With just four simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ve unlocked the secret to a rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying dessert that will impress everyone who tries it. It proves that culinary magic doesn’t require complexity, just a handful of good ingredients and a willingness to create something delicious. So, go ahead, treat yourself, share the joy, and let this incredible fudge become a staple in your recipe repertoire.
try also :
- Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes
- Crockpot Beef Fajitas
- Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
- Cheesy Pumpkin Stuffed Pretzel Bites
- Find more in Pinterest
- Medium
Peanut Butter Fudge FAQs
Q1: Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
A1: No, it is strongly recommended to use smooth, commercial-style peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy) for this recipe. Natural peanut butter tends to separate oil and can result in a greasier, less firm fudge that won’t set correctly.
Q2: My fudge didn’t set. What went wrong?
A2: The most common reasons for fudge not setting are either using natural peanut butter, not adding enough powdered sugar, or not chilling it long enough. Ensure you measure ingredients accurately and give it ample time in the refrigerator or freezer.
Q3: Can I add mix-ins to this fudge?
A3: Absolutely! Once the powdered sugar is fully incorporated, you can stir in various mix-ins like chopped mini peanut butter cups, chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white), chopped nuts (peanuts, pecans), or even a sprinkle of sea salt. Add them quickly before the fudge starts to set.
Q4: How long does this fudge last?
A4: Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this Peanut Butter Fudge will stay fresh for 2-3 weeks. At cool room temperature, it lasts about 3-5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Q5: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A5: Yes, this Peanut Butter Fudge recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided your peanut butter and vanilla extract are certified gluten-free (most mainstream brands are).
Peanut Butter Fudge – Creamy 4-Ingredient Recipe
Description
Indulge in the ultimate Peanut Butter Fudge with this incredibly easy 4-ingredient recipe! Creamy, rich, and ridiculously simple to make, this homemade fudge requires no candy thermometer and delivers perfect results every time. A melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s ready in minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups smooth peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar), sifted
Instructions
- **Prepare Your Pan:** Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides. Set aside.
- **Melt Butter and Peanut Butter:** In a medium-sized microwave-safe bowl (or saucepan over low heat), combine smooth peanut butter and cut-up unsalted butter.
- **Microwave/Stovetop Melting:** Heat in microwave in 30-second intervals (1.5-2 mins total) or over low heat on stovetop, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Do not overheat.
- **Add Vanilla:** Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- **Incorporate Powdered Sugar:** Gradually add sifted powdered sugar (½ cup at a time) to the mixture, stirring vigorously after each addition until fully incorporated and the mixture is thick and smooth.
- **Pour into Pan:** Immediately transfer the fudge mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly with a spatula.
- **Chill:** Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or until completely firm and set. (Alternatively, freeze for 30-45 minutes for faster setting).
- **Cut and Serve:** Lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into 1-inch squares and enjoy!
Notes
For best results, use commercial-style smooth peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy) as natural peanut butter can make the fudge greasy and difficult to set. Make sure to sift your powdered sugar for a lump-free, creamy texture. Do not skip the chilling step for firm, clean cuts.