If you have a sweet tooth and a love for that rich, nutty flavor, this Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe will quickly become your new favorite treat. It’s a delightful mix of creamy peanut butter, gooey marshmallow creme, and sweet sugar that melts perfectly into a luscious fudge, creating a dessert that’s both comforting and addictive. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a special occasion, or simply a cozy night in, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between simple preparation and irresistible taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe lies in its simple yet indispensable ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in achieving the perfect texture, creamy consistency, and mouthwatering flavor that make this fudge so special.
- 3 cups granulated sugar: The backbone of sweetness that caramelizes beautifully for the fudge base.
- 1 (5-ounce) can evaporated milk (about 2/3 cup): Adds richness and creaminess, helping the sugar dissolve smoothly.
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (12 tablespoons): Provides a luscious, smooth texture and prevents the fudge from crystallizing.
- 1/3 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy): Brings that signature nutty flavor and creamy body to the fudge.
- 1 (10-ounce) package peanut butter chips: Enhances the peanut butter punch and adds a silky melt into the mix.
- 1 (7-ounce) jar marshmallow creme: Gives the fudge a light, fluffy texture and irresistible gooeyness.
- 1/4 cup salted peanuts (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and a touch of salty balance to the sweet fudge.
How to Make Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Combine Ingredients
Start by buttering an 8×8-inch baking dish or spraying it with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the fudge won’t stick later. Next, combine the sugar, evaporated milk, and unsalted butter in a medium-sized, heavy pot. Place the pot over medium heat and stir frequently as the mixture heats, making sure everything melts together smoothly without burning.
Step 2: Bring the Mixture to a Boil
Once the mixture comes to a boil, keep it boiling for about 5 minutes while stirring constantly. This step is crucial because it thickens the base and cooks the sugar to the perfect stage for fudge—known as the soft ball stage, which you can check with a candy thermometer set to 235°F. This temperature ensures your fudge sets beautifully without being too hard or too soft.
Step 3: Stir in Peanut Butter and Sweet Goodies
Remove the pot from the heat, then add the peanut butter, peanut butter chips, and marshmallow creme. Stir energetically until the mixture turns creamy, glossy, and completely smooth. If you want a little texture, now is the time to fold in the chopped salted peanuts, holding some back to sprinkle on top for an eye-catching finish.
Step 4: Pour and Cool
Immediately pour your luscious fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Let it cool completely at room temperature so it can set properly. Once firm, cut the fudge into squares and get ready to enjoy a rich and comforting treat that’s bursting with peanut buttery goodness.
How to Serve Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
While this fudge shines on its own, adding a few salted peanuts or a light drizzle of melted chocolate on top can elevate its presentation and flavor profile. Sprinkling some chopped peanuts on the surface before it sets adds a nice crunch and a visually appealing touch.
Side Dishes
Pair your peanut butter fudge with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of cold milk for a classic combination that balances sweetness and creaminess. Fresh fruit like sliced bananas or strawberries also complements the rich flavor beautifully, bringing a hint of brightness to each bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gift-giving, consider wrapping smaller fudge squares in wax paper or placing them in decorative tins. Layering fudge with crushed cookies in a clear container can create a stunning dessert parfait. Offering a plate of fudge bites alongside coffee or tea makes for an irresistible treat that guests will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover peanut butter fudge in an airtight container at room temperature. It will keep its soft, creamy texture for up to two weeks—perfect for enjoying whenever a sweet craving strikes.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe fresh longer, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen fudge lasts up to three months and thaws quickly at room temperature without losing its decadent texture.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t typically necessary since fudge is best enjoyed cool or at room temperature. However, if desired, gently warm pieces in the microwave for a few seconds to soften them slightly, but be careful not to melt the fudge completely.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a bit more texture and nutty crunch to your fudge, enhancing the overall experience without compromising creaminess.
Do I really need a candy thermometer for this recipe?
While not absolutely required, a candy thermometer helps you achieve the perfect soft ball stage, ensuring the fudge sets correctly. If you don’t have one, use the cold water test to check the fudge’s readiness.
Can I substitute the peanut butter chips with chocolate chips?
You can, but it will change the flavor profile quite a bit. Using chocolate chips will create a chocolate-peanut butter fudge variation that’s delicious but different from the classic Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe taste.
Is marshmallow creme necessary?
The marshmallow creme gives the fudge its signature creamy, smooth, and slightly fluffy texture. Leaving it out will result in a denser fudge, so it’s best to include it for that classic melt-in-your-mouth feel.
Can I add other nuts besides peanuts?
Definitely! Walnuts, almonds, or pecans can be great additions if you want to switch things up. Just chop them fine and fold them in the same way you’d add peanuts.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the comforting, nostalgic flavor of homemade fudge, and this Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe makes creating that magic so wonderfully simple. With its creamy texture and rich peanut butter flavor, it’s the perfect treat to share with loved ones or savor all on your own. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll be your go-to fudge for years to come.
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Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy peanut butter fudge recipe combines creamy peanut butter, sweet marshmallow creme, and crunchy peanut butter chips into a smooth, rich treat that sets perfectly in just 30 minutes. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or whenever you crave a sweet and nutty dessert.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 (5-ounce) can evaporated milk (about 2/3 cup)
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (12 tablespoons)
- 1/3 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- 1 (10-ounce) package peanut butter chips
- 1 (7-ounce) jar marshmallow creme
Optional Toppings
- 1/4 cup salted peanuts (optional, chopped, and some reserved for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Butter an 8×8-inch baking dish or spray it with nonstick cooking spray and set aside to ensure the fudge does not stick once set.
- Cook the sugar mixture: In a medium-sized heavy pot, combine the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and unsalted butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until the mixture reaches a boil.
- Boil to soft ball stage: Once boiling, continue boiling the mixture for about 5 minutes while stirring constantly. Use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches the soft ball temperature of 235°F, which is critical for proper fudge texture.
- Add peanut butter and chips: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the peanut butter, peanut butter chips, and marshmallow creme until the mixture is creamy and smooth. If using, add chopped salted peanuts now, reserving a few to sprinkle on top.
- Set the fudge: Immediately pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top and sprinkle reserved peanuts over if desired. Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature until firm.
- Cut and store: Once cooled and set, cut the fudge into desired sized squares. Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Using a candy thermometer is important to reach the exact soft ball stage for perfect texture.
- For a smoother fudge, use creamy peanut butter rather than crunchy.
- Add chopped salted peanuts for extra crunch and flavor, or omit for a smoother texture.
- The fudge should be stored in an airtight container and kept at room temperature or in the fridge.
- If the fudge is too soft after cooling, refrigerate it for additional time to firm up.
