If you are craving a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth treat that combines the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with the perfect sweetness of sugar, then you are in for a real treat! This Easy Peanut Butter Fudge with Powdered Sugar Recipe is one of those nostalgic recipes that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Quick to whip up and always a showstopper at any gathering, the fudge boasts a luscious, creamy texture that will have everyone asking for more. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a complete novice, this recipe promises a foolproof way to create irresistible peanut butter fudge that’s both delightfully sweet and decadently smooth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this fudge lies in its simplicity—just a handful of accessible ingredients come together to create something extraordinary. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s the powdered sugar lending sweetness and structure, the butter adding richness, or the peanut butter contributing that iconic creamy flavor.
- 3 cups powdered sugar (360g): The key to that smooth, sweet texture that holds the fudge together perfectly.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (113g): Adds creamy richness and helps achieve that melt-in-your-mouth softness.
- 2 cups light brown sugar (400g, packed): Brings a subtle caramel depth and moisture for that chewy fudge consistency.
- 5 ounces half & half (148mL): Provides creaminess and helps dissolve sugars for a velvety finish.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (258g): The star of the show, infusing each bite with irresistible nutty flavor.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a touch of warm, aromatic sweetness.
How to Make Easy Peanut Butter Fudge with Powdered Sugar Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This ensures the fudge won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. Here’s a neat trick: rub the buttery side of the butter wrapper onto the pan before placing the parchment—this helps the liner stay put, so you can pour and spread your fudge with confidence.
Step 2: Ready the Powdered Sugar
Measure out your powdered sugar and place it into a large mixing bowl. Set it aside for now, as it will soon meet your luscious peanut butter mixture to become the magic that is fudge.
Step 3: Cook the Butter, Sugar, and Half & Half
In a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. When melted, stir in the light brown sugar and half & half, allowing everything to blend smoothly. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, and once the boil begins, leave it untouched for exactly 1 minute and 45 seconds to develop a rich, luscious base for your fudge.
Step 4: Stir in Peanut Butter and Vanilla
Remove your saucepan from heat, then immediately stir in the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract until the mixture turns smooth and invitingly creamy. This step is where the peanut butter flavor truly blossoms—be sure to mix thoroughly to avoid any lumps!
Step 5: Combine with Powdered Sugar
Pour the hot peanut butter mixture into the bowl of powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat everything together until your fudge batter becomes completely smooth and homogenous. This is an important step to get that signature fudge texture—take your time and enjoy the process.
Step 6: Pour and Set
Quickly transfer your fudge batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a rubber spatula. Because it sets as it cools, working swiftly is key here. Let it sit at room temperature until completely cooled and firm, which usually takes a couple of hours. The anticipation will be worth every moment!
How to Serve Easy Peanut Butter Fudge with Powdered Sugar Recipe
Garnishes
While this fudge is heavenly on its own, a simple garnish can add a charming touch. A sprinkle of crushed peanuts on top adds delightful crunch and visual appeal. Alternatively, a dusting of powdered sugar can give that classic, snowy look, enhancing its sweet invitation.
Side Dishes
Easy Peanut Butter Fudge with Powdered Sugar Recipe pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or creamy milk to balance its sweetness. You can also serve it alongside fresh fruit, such as sliced apples or berries, for a fresh contrast that complements its richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Imagine presenting this fudge in bite-sized squares wrapped in decorative parchment or placed in mini cupcake liners for a festive touch. You can layer different flavors in a tray, like chocolate or vanilla fudge, to create a stunning dessert platter that will dazzle your guests effortlessly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This fudge keeps wonderfully when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. It will remain soft yet firm for up to two weeks, making it a great make-ahead treat for parties or gift-giving.
Freezing
If you want to keep your fudge fresh for even longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. Frozen fudge can stay delicious for up to three months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best texture.
Reheating
This fudge is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, but if you prefer a softer texture, you can warm it gently for a few seconds in the microwave. Be careful not to melt it completely—just a brief warming to bring out its creamy softness.
FAQs
Can I substitute creamy peanut butter with crunchy peanut butter?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a fun texture to your fudge, giving it extra crunch in every bite. Just keep in mind that it might change the smoothness slightly, but the flavor will be just as delicious.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Yes! To make this fudge vegan, replace the butter with a plant-based margarine and swap the half & half for coconut cream or a similar non-dairy milk. Ensure your brown sugar and powdered sugar are also vegan-friendly, then proceed as usual for a delightful vegan treat.
Can I add chocolate to this peanut butter fudge?
Chocolate and peanut butter are a match made in heaven. You can mix in some melted chocolate chips or swirl in a layer of fudge made with cocoa powder to create a marbled effect. Just be sure to adjust cooling times accordingly.
How long does it take for the fudge to set properly?
Typically, the fudge needs about 2 to 3 hours at room temperature to cool and set firmly. If your kitchen is warm, you can speed up the process by refrigerating it, but avoid the freezer if setting too quickly isn’t desired.
Can I use regular sugar instead of powdered sugar?
Powdered sugar is essential for this recipe because it dissolves completely and creates the smooth texture fudge is known for. Using regular granulated sugar won’t give the same creamy consistency and might result in grainy fudge.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Peanut Butter Fudge with Powdered Sugar Recipe is a shining example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary. Whether it’s a special occasion, a gift, or just a sweet craving, this fudge never fails to impress. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the magic yourself—trust me, once you do, it will become one of your favorite go-to treats for years to come!
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Easy Peanut Butter Fudge with Powdered Sugar Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 25 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Peanut Butter Fudge recipe combines the rich, creamy sweetness of peanut butter with a smooth, sugary base for a delicious homemade treat. Ready in just 10 minutes, this fudge is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with minimal effort and common pantry ingredients.
Ingredients
Fudge Mixture
- 3 cups powdered sugar (360g)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (113g)
- 2 cups light brown sugar, packed (400g)
- 5 ounces half & half (148mL)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (258g)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. To keep the parchment paper from moving, use the greasy side of the butter wrapper to lightly grease the pan before placing the parchment.
- Set Powdered Sugar Aside: Place the 3 cups of powdered sugar into a large mixing bowl and set it aside. This will be combined with the fudge mixture later.
- Melt and Boil: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the ½ cup of unsalted butter. Stir in the 2 cups of light brown sugar and 5 ounces of half & half, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, let it sit untouched for 1 minute and 45 seconds to fully cook the sugar mixture.
- Add Peanut Butter and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat, then quickly stir in the 1 cup of creamy peanut butter and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Mix with Powdered Sugar: Pour the hot peanut butter mixture into the bowl containing the powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture until it becomes completely smooth and well combined.
- Set the Fudge: Pour the smooth fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a rubber spatula. Allow it to cool completely until set before cutting into pieces and serving.
Notes
- Use parchment paper to easily lift fudge out of the pan for neat cutting.
- Let the fudge cool completely at room temperature for best texture; refrigerating may make it too hard.
- The pinch of salt can be added to balance the sweetness, though not listed in the original recipe.
- Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or refrigerate for longer storage.
- If you prefer a chunkier texture, stir in chopped peanuts before pouring into the pan.
