Peanut Butter Fudge

Peanut Butter Fudge is a classic, melt-in-your-mouth dessert that combines the rich, creamy flavor of peanut butter with a smooth, sugary texture that’s hard to resist. This simple yet decadent treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, and the best part is that it requires minimal ingredients and effort to make.

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Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday gathering, a sweet indulgence for yourself, or as a gift for friends and family, Peanut Butter Fudge is a timeless recipe that’s sure to impress. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up this delightful dessert in no time.

🛒 Ingredients for Peanut Butter Fudge

This recipe calls for simple pantry ingredients that come together to create a rich and flavorful fudge. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups granulated sugar: The sugar is the base of the fudge, providing sweetness and structure.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Butter adds richness and a creamy texture to the fudge.
• 1/2 cup whole milk: Milk helps to create a smooth and creamy consistency in the fudge, balancing out the richness of the peanut butter and butter.
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter: Peanut butter is the star of the show, giving the fudge its signature nutty flavor and smooth texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla adds warmth and depth to the flavor, complementing the peanut butter beautifully.
• 3 cups powdered sugar: Powdered sugar helps to create a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture while adding sweetness to the fudge.

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Peanut Butter Fudge

Making Peanut Butter Fudge is straightforward and easy. Follow these simple steps to create a batch of rich and creamy fudge that’s perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself).

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

1. Line an 8×8-inch baking dish: Before you start cooking, line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This will make it easier to remove the fudge once it has set. The parchment paper also helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Melt and Mix

1. Combine sugar, butter, and milk: In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and whole milk. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. Be sure to keep an eye on it, as sugar can burn quickly if left unattended.
2. Boil for 2-3 minutes: Once the mixture reaches a rolling boil, continue stirring and let it boil for 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the right consistency in your fudge. Boiling for too long can result in a grainy texture, while boiling for too short a time can prevent the fudge from setting properly.

Step 3: Add Peanut Butter

1. Remove from heat: After boiling the mixture for 2-3 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat.
2. Stir in peanut butter and vanilla extract: Quickly stir in the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract. Continue stirring until the peanut butter is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and well combined. The warmth of the sugar mixture will easily melt the peanut butter, creating a creamy, velvety texture.

Step 4: Combine with Powdered Sugar

1. Sift powdered sugar: In a large mixing bowl, sift the powdered sugar to remove any lumps. Sifting ensures a smooth and even texture in the finished fudge.
2. Pour the peanut butter mixture over the powdered sugar: Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the sifted powdered sugar. Stir until everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth and creamy. The powdered sugar will help thicken the fudge and give it its characteristic melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 5: Pour and Set

1. Spread the fudge in the pan: Once the mixture is smooth and well combined, pour it into the prepared 8×8-inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the fudge evenly, ensuring that it reaches all corners of the pan.
2. Let it cool: Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about an hour, or until it has completely set. This step is crucial for achieving the right consistency. You can also refrigerate the fudge to speed up the cooling process if you’re in a hurry.

Step 6: Cut and Serve

1. Cut into squares: Once the fudge has set, use the parchment paper to lift it out of the pan. Place the fudge on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut it into squares. The size of the squares is up to you, but a standard size is about 1 to 1.5 inches.
2. Serve and enjoy: Now that your Peanut Butter Fudge is ready, it’s time to enjoy! Serve the fudge as a sweet treat after a meal, or package it up as a gift for friends and family.

🍴 Serving Suggestions for Peanut Butter Fudge

Peanut Butter Fudge is delicious on its own, but there are plenty of ways to elevate your fudge and make it even more special. Here are some serving ideas:

1. Pair with Coffee or Hot Chocolate: The rich and creamy texture of peanut butter fudge pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or hot chocolate. The bitterness of the coffee or the sweetness of the hot chocolate complements the fudge’s richness perfectly.
2. Serve with Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert, serve your Peanut Butter Fudge alongside a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The cold, creamy ice cream contrasts nicely with the dense, rich fudge.
3. Top with Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of your fudge squares for an extra touch of sweetness and a light, airy contrast to the dense fudge.
4. Add a Sprinkle of Sea Salt: For a sweet and salty combination, sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the fudge before it sets. The salt enhances the peanut butter flavor and adds an extra layer of complexity to the fudge.
5. Create Fudge Bars: Instead of cutting the fudge into small squares, cut it into larger bars and wrap them individually in parchment paper. These bars make for a convenient, grab-and-go snack or a thoughtful homemade gift.

📝 Tips and Tricks for Perfect Peanut Butter Fudge

Making fudge is simple, but a few tips and tricks can ensure that your Peanut Butter Fudge turns out perfectly every time:

1. Avoid Overcooking: One of the most common mistakes when making fudge is overcooking the sugar mixture. Be sure to boil the sugar, butter, and milk for no more than 2-3 minutes. Overcooking can cause the sugar to crystallize, resulting in a grainy texture instead of a smooth and creamy fudge.
2. Use Creamy Peanut Butter: For the best texture, use creamy peanut butter rather than chunky. Chunky peanut butter can make the fudge lumpy and interfere with its smooth consistency.
3. Sift the Powdered Sugar: Don’t skip the step of sifting the powdered sugar. This helps to prevent lumps in your fudge and ensures a smooth, even texture.
4. Cool at Room Temperature: Letting the fudge cool at room temperature allows it to set evenly. Avoid placing it directly in the fridge to cool, as this can cause the fudge to set unevenly and become too firm.
5. Customize with Mix-Ins: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins to the fudge before it sets. Chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of caramel can add extra flavor and texture to the fudge.
6. Store at Room Temperature: Peanut Butter Fudge is best stored at room temperature in an airtight container. If you need to store it for longer, you can refrigerate it, but be aware that this may change the texture slightly, making it firmer.

🌟 Variations and Add-Ins for Peanut Butter Fudge

While Peanut Butter Fudge is delicious as is, you can easily customize the recipe with different variations and add-ins to suit your taste. Here are some ideas:

1. Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge: Swirl some melted chocolate into the peanut butter mixture before it sets to create a chocolate-peanut butter combo that’s hard to resist. You can also layer chocolate fudge on top of the peanut butter fudge for a two-tone effect.
2. Nutty Fudge: Add some crunch to your fudge by stirring in chopped nuts, such as pecans, walnuts, or peanuts, before pouring the mixture into the pan. The nuts add texture and complement the peanut butter flavor perfectly.
3. Caramel Swirl Fudge: For an extra touch of sweetness, swirl some caramel sauce into the fudge before it sets. The combination of caramel and peanut butter is indulgent and delicious.
4. Coconut Peanut Butter Fudge: Add a tropical twist to your fudge by mixing in shredded coconut. The coconut adds a unique flavor and a chewy texture that pairs well with the creamy fudge.
5. Spicy Peanut Butter Fudge: For a surprising twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the fudge mixture. The slight heat from the spices balances the sweetness of the fudge and adds an unexpected depth of flavor.

🎉 Final Thoughts: Peanut Butter Fudge

Peanut Butter Fudge is a timeless dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich, creamy texture and sweet, nutty flavor make it a favorite among both kids and adults. Whether you’re making it for a special event, as a holiday treat, or just because you’re craving something sweet, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.

With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch of this indulgent fudge in no time. And with the tips, variations, and serving suggestions provided, you can customize the recipe to make it your own.

So the next time you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, give this Peanut Butter Fudge recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!