If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert that’s both irresistibly creamy and wonderfully simple to make, then you’re in for a treat with the Easiest Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe. This classic comfort sweet strikes the perfect balance between rich, nutty peanut butter flavor and melt-in-your-mouth smoothness, all without the fuss of complicated ingredients or laborious steps. Whether you’re new to fudge making or just short on time but big on flavor, this recipe guarantees a luscious, crowd-pleasing batch that will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the joy with this fudge. The simplicity here is stunning—each component plays a vital role in creating that perfect texture and irresistible taste that defines this Easiest Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe.
- Sugar: Provides the essential sweetness and structure of the fudge, ensuring it sets properly.
- Milk: Adds creaminess and helps dissolve the sugar for a smooth consistency.
- Peanut butter: The star of the show—choose extra crunchy for texture or smooth for a silky finish.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors by adding depth and a lovely aromatic touch.
How to Make Easiest Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Sugar and Milk
Start by combining the sugar and milk in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stirring constantly is key here to prevent any burning and to encourage the sugar to dissolve evenly. As the mixture heats up, you’ll notice it beginning to thicken—this is the foundation of your fudge’s body forming right before your eyes.
Step 2: Bring to a Boil and Dissolve the Sugar
Allow the mixture to boil gently for about 3 minutes. This short boil is crucial to fully dissolve the sugar and generate the creamy texture you’re after. Don’t rush this step; keeping the heat right and stirring throughout ensures your fudge won’t have a grainy finish.
Step 3: Blend in Peanut Butter and Vanilla
Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly add in your peanut butter and vanilla extract. Stir vigorously until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This stage is super rewarding as you watch the rich peanut butter blend seamlessly into the sugary base, creating that luscious fudge texture we all love.
Step 4: Pour and Set
Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal later, then pour in your fudge mixture. Spread it evenly and let it cool at room temperature until fully set, which usually takes about an hour. After that, cut into squares, and voilà —you’ve just made the easiest peanut butter fudge that’s ready to impress!
How to Serve Easiest Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your fudge to dessert table stardom. Consider sprinkling chopped peanuts on top before setting for added crunch, or a light dusting of sea salt to amplify the peanut butter’s natural richness. Whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce also pair wonderfully if you’re feeling extra indulgent.
Side Dishes
This fudge shines on its own but also pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries for a contrast in texture and flavor. For a party, set it alongside coffee or hot chocolate to create a comforting and satisfying treat experience for your guests.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation is half the fun with fudge. Try cutting your squares into festive shapes using cookie cutters, or wrap individual pieces in colorful parchment for gift-giving. You can also layer fudge squares with crushed cookies or wrap them in decorative tins to wow friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover fudge fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will maintain its perfect texture and flavor for up to two weeks, making it an ideal sweet treat to enjoy over time without losing its charm.
Freezing
If you want to stash your fudge for longer, freezing works beautifully. Wrap pieces individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When properly stored, your fudge will last for up to three months without quality loss.
Reheating
Fudge doesn’t typically need reheating, but if it’s chilled or frozen, simply leave it at room temperature for a bit to soften. Avoid microwaving as it can alter texture, but a gentle warm spot in the kitchen will revive its creamy consistency perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use salted peanut butter for this fudge?
Absolutely! Salted peanut butter adds a slight savory balance to the sweetness, which many find enhances the overall flavor. Just keep in mind that it may affect the saltiness of the final fudge, so adjust any added garnishes accordingly.
Is it necessary to use parchment paper lining in the pan?
Using parchment paper is highly recommended as it makes removing the fudge much easier and keeps the bottom from sticking. If you don’t have parchment, a well-greased pan will work, but expect a little challenge when serving.
Can I substitute milk with something else?
Whole milk provides the best texture for this fudge, but you can experiment with cream or even plant-based milks like almond or oat. Just be aware the texture might vary slightly depending on the fat content and composition.
Why did my fudge turn grainy?
Graininess usually happens when the sugar isn’t fully dissolved or when the fudge cools too quickly. Stirring constantly during the boiling step and allowing the mixture to set at room temperature helps prevent this and results in a smoother fudge.
How long does this fudge take to set?
Typically, it takes about an hour at room temperature for the fudge to fully firm up. Cooler temperatures can slow this process, so give it some extra time if needed, but avoid refrigerating before it sets to preserve the ideal texture.
Final Thoughts
This Easiest Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe truly lives up to its name by delivering rich, homemade flavor with minimal effort and maximum delight. It’s a wonderful excuse to get in the kitchen, whip up a batch, and share cozy moments with friends and family. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find this fudge recipe becoming a cherished go-to for any occasion — give it a try and watch it disappear!
Print
Easiest Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including cooling and setting time)
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easiest Peanut Butter Fudge recipe is a quick and simple way to make creamy, rich peanut butter fudge at home with just a few basic ingredients. Perfectly sweet and smooth, this fudge is ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing with friends during holidays and special occasions.
Ingredients
Fudge Ingredients
- 2 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup peanut butter (extra crunchy or smooth, as desired)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Combine sugar and milk: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and milk. Place over medium heat and stir constantly to prevent burning and ensure the sugar dissolves evenly.
- Boil the mixture: Allow the mixture to come to a boil and keep boiling for about 3 minutes while continuing to stir. This step is crucial to fully dissolve the sugar and achieve a smooth texture in your fudge.
- Add peanut butter and vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the fudge mixture becomes creamy and smooth.
- Pour and set: Pour the fudge mixture into an 8×8-inch pan lined with parchment paper. Let it cool at room temperature until it is fully set. Once firm, cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Use either smooth or extra crunchy peanut butter depending on your texture preference.
- For best results, stir constantly during boiling to avoid crystallization and burning.
- Ensure the fudge is completely cooled and set before cutting to get clean squares.
- Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
