Description
This easy and creamy Peanut Butter Fudge recipe combines smooth peanut butter and powdered sugar for a rich, melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and no baking required, it’s a quick and delicious dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Scale
Fudge Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1½ cups creamy peanut butter (NOT the natural or natural no-stir varieties)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3¼ cups powdered sugar, sifted
Pan Preparation
- 1 tablespoon water (to keep parchment paper in place)
Optional Garnish
- M&M’s, 2-3 pieces per fudge piece
Instructions
- Prepare parchment paper: Using the bottom of an 8×8 inch pan as a template, cut out a piece of parchment paper to fit inside the pan with overhangs to lift the fudge later.
- Line the pan: Pour 1 tablespoon of water into the bottom of the 8×8 pan to keep the parchment paper from shifting, then line the pan with the prepared parchment paper.
- Melt butter and peanut butter: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup unsalted butter and 1½ cups creamy peanut butter. Microwave for 60 seconds, then carefully remove and stir until smooth.
- Add vanilla: Stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Incorporate powdered sugar: Gradually add 3¼ cups sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, stirring thoroughly with a large spoon after each addition until the mixture is smooth and no lumps or white streaks remain.
- Pour fudge mixture into pan: Using a spatula, transfer and evenly spread the fudge mixture in the prepared 8×8 pan.
- Smooth fudge: Place the pre-cut piece of parchment paper on top of the fudge and use it to smooth the surface. Leave this piece on top.
- Chill fudge: Refrigerate the fudge for 2 hours until firm.
- Score fudge: Remove from refrigerator and take off the top parchment paper. Using a sharp knife, pre-score the fudge into 64 pieces but do not cut all the way through while it remains in the pan.
- Remove fudge from pan: Lift the fudge out using the parchment paper overhangs and set it on a cutting board.
- Slice fudge: Warm a large sharp knife under hot water, dry it, and then cut the fudge along the scored lines for clean slices.
- Add garnish: Place 2-3 red and green M&M’s on top of each fudge piece for decoration, if desired.
- Store fudge: Keep fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Notes
- Store fudge in an airtight container; it lasts 3-4 days at room temperature or 1 week refrigerated.
- Freeze fudge for 2-3 months by wrapping in plastic wrap and placing in an airtight freezer bag. Defrost to room temperature before serving.
- Different peanut butter brands affect fudge color and sweetness: Peter Pan is darker and sweeter; Skippy is lighter; Reese’s has a slight orange hue; JIF is lightest in color and slightly saltier.
- Use creamy peanut butter varieties that are not natural or no-stir for best consistency.
- Heating the knife before slicing helps achieve smooth, clean cuts.
