Peanut butter lovers, rejoice! This Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge is the dessert of your dreams—rich, smooth, and perfectly sweet. Whether you’re preparing treats for a holiday spread, gifting homemade goodies, or indulging in your own cravings, this recipe is easy to follow and absolutely foolproof.
Why This Fudge Will Steal the Show
- Foolproof Recipe: No candy thermometer required!
- Minimal Ingredients: Only six pantry staples needed.
- Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: Creamy, rich, and velvety in every bite.
- Quick to Make: Just 15 minutes of prep time!
Ingredients (Makes ~36 Squares)
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups light brown sugar
- 5 ounces half & half
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pan
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Melt the Butter
In a medium-sized saucepan, melt ½ cup butter over medium heat.
3. Cook the Base
Stir in 2 cups light brown sugar and 5 ounces half & half. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and let it cook undisturbed for exactly 1 minute and 45 seconds. This step ensures the sugar dissolves completely.
4. Add Peanut Butter and Vanilla
Remove from heat and immediately stir in 1 cup creamy peanut butter and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine with Powdered Sugar
Place 3 cups powdered sugar in a large mixing bowl. Pour the hot peanut butter mixture over the powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture until smooth and lump-free.
6. Set the Fudge
Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Let it cool at room temperature for 1-2 hours, or refrigerate for 30-45 minutes for faster setting.
7. Slice and Enjoy
Once fully set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper. Slice into squares and serve.
Pro Tips for Perfect Fudge
- Precise Timing: Boil the sugar mixture for exactly 1 minute and 45 seconds—no more, no less—for a smooth consistency.
- Use Creamy Peanut Butter: Chunky peanut butter can affect the fudge’s texture.
- Cool Completely: Let the fudge set fully before slicing to ensure clean, sharp edges.
- Storage Tips: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for longer storage.
Variations to Try
- Swirled Fudge: Add melted chocolate to the top and swirl it in before the fudge sets.
- Nutty Twist: Mix in chopped peanuts for extra crunch.
- Salted Fudge: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for a sweet-and-salty flavor.
- Holiday Flair: Add crushed candy canes or sprinkles for festive occasions.
Why This Recipe Works
The secret lies in the precise cooking time of the sugar and half & half mixture, ensuring the fudge is perfectly creamy. Powdered sugar adds structure, while peanut butter and vanilla create a luscious, nutty depth of flavor. The result is an irresistible fudge that’s as smooth as it is decadent.
Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge
Ingredients
- - ½ cup unsalted butter
- - 2 cups light brown sugar
- - 5 ounces half & half
- - 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- - 3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in brown sugar and half & half. Bring to a boil and cook for exactly 1 minute and 45 seconds.
- Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Place powdered sugar in a large mixing bowl. Pour the hot mixture over it and beat with an electric mixer until smooth.
- Pour the fudge into the prepared pan, spread evenly, and let cool for 1-2 hours.
- Once set, slice into squares and serve.
Notes
- For faster setting, refrigerate the fudge for 30-45 minutes.