Peanut Butter Fudge

Peanut butter fudge is one of those nostalgic treats that never goes out of style. It’s creamy, sweet, and packed with peanut butter flavor—perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, this easy-to-make peanut butter fudge recipe with just a handful of ingredients will surely be a hit. Follow along as we guide you through the steps of creating this irresistible dessert in double batches!

1. What is Peanut Butter Fudge?

Peanut butter fudge is a deliciously creamy and rich treat made by combining peanut butter, sugar, milk, and a few other ingredients. It’s often served in small squares and has a melt-in-your-mouth texture. This sweet confection is perfect for holidays, parties, or just as a treat to keep on hand.

2. Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe

Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this fudge in no time.

Rich and Creamy: The combination of peanut butter and milk gives the fudge a creamy texture that melts in your mouth.

Minimal Ingredients: This recipe uses basic pantry staples, so you probably already have everything you need to make it!

Perfect for Double Batches: You can easily make more by doubling the recipe, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends.

3. Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the perfect batch of peanut butter fudge, gather the following ingredients:

1 cup of sugar

½ cup of milk

1 cup of peanut butter (smooth or chunky, depending on your preference)

1 tsp of vanilla extract

This recipe is for a double batch, so feel free to adjust if you’re looking for a smaller or larger amount.

4. The Secret to Perfect Peanut Butter Fudge

The key to a perfect peanut butter fudge lies in the cooking process. The sugar and milk need to reach the right temperature before you combine them with peanut butter. Getting the right texture is all about getting that perfect balance between cooking the sugar mixture just long enough and stirring in the peanut butter at the right time.

5. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Peanut Butter Fudge

Step 1: Combine Sugar and Milk

In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar and ½ cup of milk. Stir over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved, and the mixture comes to a boil.

Step 2: Boil and Stir

Allow the sugar and milk mixture to boil for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Be careful not to burn the mixture. Once it has boiled for a few minutes, remove the saucepan from heat.

Step 3: Add Peanut Butter

Stir in 1 cup of peanut butter into the hot sugar and milk mixture. Keep stirring until the peanut butter is fully melted and incorporated into the mixture. This is when the magic happens! The peanut butter will make the fudge creamy and rich.

Step 4: Add Vanilla Extract

Once your peanut butter is fully incorporated, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This adds a delightful flavor to the fudge and enhances its sweetness.

Step 5: Pour and Set

Pour the mixture into a greased or lined baking pan. Spread it out evenly using a spatula to ensure that the fudge is level. Let it cool at room temperature until it sets, or refrigerate it to speed up the process.

Step 6: Cut and Serve

Once your fudge has completely set (usually about 2-3 hours), cut it into small squares. Serve and enjoy the creamy, nutty goodness!

6. Tips for Making the Best Peanut Butter Fudge

Stir Consistently: Make sure to stir the sugar and milk mixture continuously to prevent it from burning.

Use Smooth Peanut Butter: If you prefer a smoother fudge, use creamy peanut butter. For extra texture, go with chunky peanut butter.

Allow Enough Time to Cool: Be patient while the fudge sets. If you cut it too soon, it may not hold its shape properly.

Double It Up: Since this is a double batch recipe, you can easily adjust the quantities to make more if needed. Just double the ingredients and ensure you have a large enough pan to accommodate the larger batch.

7. How to Store Peanut Butter Fudge

Peanut butter fudge can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer it to last longer, store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze peanut butter fudge for up to 3 months, making it a great make-ahead treat for later.

8. Creative Variations of Peanut Butter Fudge

While this basic recipe is delicious on its own, you can get creative and add your own twist:

Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge: Melt some chocolate and swirl it into the fudge for a decadent chocolate-peanut butter combination.

Peanut Butter and Pretzel Fudge: Add crushed pretzels to the fudge mixture for a salty-sweet crunch.

Peanut Butter Swirl Fudge: Top the fudge with a peanut butter swirl for an extra layer of flavor.

9. Why Peanut Butter Fudge Makes the Perfect Gift

Peanut butter fudge makes a great homemade gift. Whether you’re giving it for birthdays, holidays, or as a simple gesture of kindness, it’s an affordable and delicious gift that anyone will appreciate. Simply wrap it in parchment paper or place it in a cute gift box for a personal touch.

10. Peanut Butter Fudge for Special Diets

This recipe contains sugar and milk, but if you’re looking to modify it for specific dietary needs, here are some options:

Vegan: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of dairy milk, and opt for a vegan-friendly peanut butter.

Low-Sugar: Substitute the sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit, though this may slightly alter the texture.

Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always make sure the ingredients you use are certified gluten-free if needed.

11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy? Yes! Using crunchy peanut butter will give your fudge a bit of extra texture, which some people love.

Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! This recipe is designed for a double batch, so you can easily double the ingredients if you need more.

Why is my fudge too soft? If your fudge is too soft, you may not have boiled the sugar and milk mixture long enough. Make sure to cook it for the full 2-3 minutes and allow it to cool and set properly.

12. Peanut Butter Fudge Pairings

Peanut butter fudge pairs beautifully with many other desserts or beverages:

Coffee or Milk: The rich flavor of peanut butter fudge complements the deep taste of coffee or the creamy texture of milk.

Ice Cream: Crumble the fudge over vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Brownies: Add a piece of peanut butter fudge on top of a warm brownie for the ultimate dessert experience.

13. Conclusion: Enjoy the Sweetness of Homemade Peanut Butter Fudge

Peanut butter fudge is one of those timeless treats that everyone loves. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering, holiday party, or just as a sweet snack, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to delight. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a creamy, decadent fudge that tastes far better than store-bought versions. Try it out and enjoy the irresistible combination of peanut butter and sweetness!

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