The Ultimate Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe: Easy, Creamy, and Irresistible
If you’re a peanut butter lover, this Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge recipe is about to become your go-to treat. It’s rich, smooth, and perfectly sweet—ideal for dessert platters, holiday gifting, or satisfying your own sweet cravings. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few pantry staples and no special equipment!
With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and nutty, caramel-like flavor, this peanut butter fudge strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe guarantees perfect results every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Takes just 15 minutes of active preparation with no complicated steps.
- Simple Ingredients: Most are pantry staples, making this a convenient last-minute dessert option.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or as an edible gift for loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- ½ cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and creates the base of the fudge.
- 2 cups light brown sugar: Provides a caramel-like depth of flavor.
- 5 ounces half & half: Ensures a creamy consistency.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: The star ingredient for that nutty, luscious taste.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
- 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the fudge for that signature texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pan
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal. Set aside.
2. Melt the Butter
In a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
3. Add Sugar and Half & Half
Stir in the brown sugar and half & half. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it cook untouched for exactly 1 minute and 45 seconds. This ensures the sugar fully dissolves, creating a smooth base.
4. Mix in Peanut Butter and Vanilla
Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract until the mixture is silky smooth.
5. Combine with Powdered Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, add the powdered sugar. Pour the hot peanut butter mixture over the powdered sugar and beat with an electric mixer until completely smooth and well combined.
6. Set the Fudge
Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Let it cool at room temperature until fully set, about 1-2 hours. For faster results, refrigerate it for 30-45 minutes.
7. Slice and Serve
Once the fudge is firm, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Don’t Skip the Boil Time: Boiling the sugar and half & half for exactly 1 minute and 45 seconds is crucial for achieving the perfect consistency.
- Use Creamy Peanut Butter: For the smoothest texture, stick with creamy peanut butter rather than chunky.
- Storage: Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of brown sugar, peanut butter, and powdered sugar creates a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s hard to resist. The addition of half & half ensures the fudge stays creamy, while the vanilla extract enhances its depth of flavor. With just a few simple steps, this recipe delivers a treat that’s perfect for any occasion.