The holiday season brings with it a delightful array of traditions, and for many, that includes indulging in decadent homemade treats. While classic chocolate fudge often takes center stage, preparing a batch of rich, creamy Peanut Butter Fudge offers a wonderful, unique twist that’s sure to surprise and delight. This exquisite confection is a must-make recipe, especially for anyone who adores the irresistible flavor of peanut butter and is looking for a delectable fudge option without chocolate. Its simple ingredients and straightforward process make it an ideal choice for busy festive periods, or any time you crave a sweet, nutty indulgence.
Indeed, ‘tis the season for tantalizing your sweet tooth, and there is absolutely no quicker or more satisfying way to do so than with an incredibly easy fudge recipe! This delightful dessert is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile, making it a perfect addition to your holiday trays, dessert platters, or even as a thoughtful homemade gift this year. Imagine the joy of biting into a soft, melt-in-your-mouth square of pure peanut butter bliss. It’s a nostalgic flavor that brings warmth and comfort, ideal for sharing with loved ones during festive gatherings or enjoying as a quiet treat by yourself.
WHY YOU WILL ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS PEANUT BUTTER FUDGE RECIPE
Prepare to fall in love with this incredible peanut butter fudge! With just 5 simple, readily available ingredients, you can whip up this divine no-bake confection in mere minutes. That’s right – no complicated baking, no tricky techniques, and best of all, absolutely no candy thermometer is needed! The most time-consuming part of this entire process is patiently waiting for the fudge to chill and set perfectly in the refrigerator, allowing you to focus on other holiday preparations or simply relax. This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it a true winner.
This incredibly creamy and smooth fudge is the ideal recipe for a myriad of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a party, contributing to a potluck, participating in a cookie exchange, or simply looking for a sweet treat for your family, this peanut butter fudge fits the bill perfectly. Its rich texture and universally loved flavor make it a crowd-pleaser every time. Beyond serving it at events, consider wrapping individual pieces in decorative cellophane bags or arranging them in a festive box. This homemade fudge transforms into a well-received and thoughtful gift for neighbors, appreciative teachers, dedicated colleagues, or your generous party hostess. It’s a personal touch that truly shows you care.
If your palate gravitates towards delicious fudges free from milk or dark chocolate, you’re in for a real treat. This peanut butter fudge is just the beginning! We have a fantastic collection of recipes that are perfect for Christmastime and beyond. Don’t miss out on trying Grinch Fudge, a whimsical and festive green treat; the refreshing White Chocolate Peppermint Fudge, which embodies the spirit of the season; and the uniquely spiced Eggnog Fudge. Each offers a distinct flavor profile, ensuring there’s a delightful option for every taste preference, all without the traditional chocolate base.
ESSENTIAL INGREDIENTS FOR THIS IRRESISTIBLE PEANUT BUTTER FUDGE RECIPE
Creating this smooth and decadent peanut butter fudge requires just a handful of common pantry staples. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect creamy texture and rich flavor. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:
- Butter: For the best results, use softened unsalted butter. Softened butter will melt more evenly and incorporate beautifully into the sugar and milk mixture, contributing to the fudge’s silky texture. If you only have salted butter, you can use it, but consider slightly reducing any added salt in the recipe if you introduce any, though this particular recipe doesn’t call for extra salt.
- Sugar: White refined sugar is absolutely essential for this recipe. It dissolves perfectly to create the sweet, crystalline structure that gives fudge its characteristic texture. Granulated sugar provides the necessary sweetness and contributes to the smooth consistency when boiled with the milk.
- Milk: I highly recommend using whole milk for this fudge. The higher fat content in whole milk creates a richer, more luxurious base, resulting in a creamier and more indulgent fudge. While other milk types can be used (as discussed in substitutions), whole milk yields the most traditional and satisfying texture.
- Peanut Butter: The star of the show! I typically use smooth peanut butter for a perfectly uniform and creamy fudge. However, if you prefer a delightful crunch and a nuttier texture, feel free to use chunky peanut butter. Make sure to use a good quality, well-stirred peanut butter for the best flavor. Natural peanut butter (oil separation) can sometimes alter the consistency, so a standard creamy or chunky variety works best.
- Marshmallow Fluff: Also widely known as marshmallow cream, this ingredient is the secret to the fudge’s incredible no-fail consistency and adds a delightful lightness and chewiness. You will need an entire 7-ounce jar for this recipe to achieve the perfect balance and texture. It helps stabilize the fudge and contributes to its overall sweetness and creaminess without requiring a candy thermometer.
HOW TO EASILY MAKE HOMEMADE PEANUT BUTTER FUDGE
Creating this irresistible peanut butter fudge is surprisingly simple, even for novice candy makers. Just follow these easy steps to achieve a perfectly smooth and delicious treat:
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan. Begin by lining an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan with aluminum foil. Ensure the foil extends over the edges of the pan; these overhangs will serve as convenient “handles” later for lifting the fudge out. Once lined, generously grease the foil with a little butter or a non-stick cooking spray. This crucial step prevents sticking and ensures your fudge releases cleanly once set.
Step 2: Create the Sugar Base. In a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and whole milk. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring constantly with a whisk or wooden spoon. Continuous stirring is key to prevent the sugar from scorching on the bottom of the pan and to ensure it dissolves completely, creating a smooth syrup. Once it reaches a full boil, continue stirring for about 1-2 minutes to ensure the sugar is fully incorporated. Immediately remove the sugar mixture from the heat.
Step 3: Add Peanut Butter and Marshmallow Fluff. Working quickly, add the peanut butter and the entire jar of marshmallow fluff (or marshmallow cream) to the hot sugar and milk mixture. Stir vigorously and continuously until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and you achieve a wonderfully creamy, smooth, and uniform texture. It might look a bit separated at first, but keep stirring, and it will come together beautifully. This step is critical for incorporating the distinct peanut butter flavor and the stabilizing power of the marshmallow fluff.
Step 4: Spread and Cool. Promptly pour the hot peanut butter mixture into your prepared 8×8-inch pan. Using a spatula, spread the fudge evenly into the pan, ensuring it fills all corners and has a consistent thickness. Allow the fudge to cool slightly at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This initial cooling helps it begin to firm up before refrigeration.
Step 5: Chill and Set. Once slightly cooled, place the pan of fudge into the refrigerator. Allow it to chill for at least 1 hour, or until the fudge is completely set and firm to the touch. The longer it chills, the easier it will be to cut into clean squares. You can also leave it in the refrigerator for several hours or even overnight for the best results.
Step 6: Cut and Serve. Once the fudge is completely firm, use the foil overhangs to carefully lift the entire slab of fudge from the pan. Peel away the aluminum foil from the sides and bottom. Place the fudge on a cutting board and use a sharp knife (lightly greased if desired) to cut it into 1-inch (2.5 cm) squares. Now, your homemade peanut butter fudge is ready to be enjoyed! Prepare for it to disappear quickly.
Love It? Pin It for Later!
Don’t want to forget this unbelievably easy and creamy peanut butter fudge recipe? Make sure to save it! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board right now so you can easily find this delightful sweet treat whenever a craving strikes or when you need a quick dessert for your next gathering. It’s the perfect way to keep all your favorite recipes organized and accessible, ensuring you can whip up this crowd-pleaser again and again with ease!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS) ABOUT PEANUT BUTTER FUDGE
Curious about the origins of fudge or seeking quick preparation tips? Here are some common questions and detailed answers about making delicious fudge:
Where was fudge invented? The sweet history of fudge is quite fascinating! It is widely believed to be an American creation, with its origins tracing back to 1886. The first documented batch is thought to have been made by a candy maker in Baltimore, Maryland. Legend has it that fudge might have been an accidental invention, born from a “botched” or “fudged” batch of caramels where the sugar unexpectedly recrystallized, resulting in the distinct fudgy texture we know and love today. This intriguing mishap may also be the playful origin of the popular phrase, “Oh fudge!” when something goes wrong in the kitchen, adding a delightful anecdote to this beloved confection.
Can I make peanut butter fudge in the microwave? Absolutely, yes! For those seeking an even quicker method, making this peanut butter fudge in the microwave is a fantastic option. Instead of using a saucepan on the stovetop to boil the milk and sugar, you can achieve the same result by microwaving the milk and sugar mixture on high power for approximately 2 minutes. After this initial heating, remove it from the microwave and vigorously whip the mixture with a whisk or a mixer for 1 minute. Return it to the microwave and heat again for an additional 30 seconds. This process ensures the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture reaches the necessary temperature. Once these steps are complete, proceed with the rest of the recipe as directed, stirring in the peanut butter and marshmallow fluff. This method significantly cuts down on active cooking time, making it even more convenient!
SMART SUBSTITUTIONS FOR YOUR PEANUT BUTTER FUDGE
While the original recipe calls for specific ingredients for optimal results, sometimes you need to make a swap. Here are some effective substitutions that can work for this delicious peanut butter fudge:
- Butter: For greasing the pan, if you’re out of butter, you can certainly use margarine as an alternative. Another excellent option is a nonstick cooking spray, which provides an even coating and helps with easy release. This is purely for pan preparation, not for the fudge mixture itself.
- Sugar: While white refined sugar is definitely the best choice for achieving the classic fudge texture and color, you can experiment with light brown sugar. Using light brown sugar will impart a slightly deeper, more caramel-like flavor and a slightly chewier texture to your fudge, along with a slightly darker hue. Avoid dark brown sugar as its molasses content can drastically change the flavor and texture.
- Milk: If whole milk isn’t available, you have a couple of viable alternatives. Evaporated milk is an excellent substitute as it has a higher concentration of milk solids, which can contribute to an even creamier fudge. Half and half is another great option, offering a good balance of fat and liquid that works well in this recipe. While regular low-fat milk can be used in a pinch, it might result in a slightly less rich and creamy texture.
EXPERT TIPS AND TRICKS FOR PERFECT FUDGE EVERY TIME
To ensure your peanut butter fudge is always a resounding success, keep these helpful tips and tricks in mind:
- Proper Storage for Lasting Freshness: Once your fudge is cut into squares, proper storage is key to maintaining its freshness and delightful texture. Store the fudge layered in between pieces of wax paper or parchment paper in an airtight container. This prevents the pieces from sticking together and helps keep them moist. At room temperature, in a cool, dry place, your fudge will remain fresh and delicious for 1-2 weeks. For extended freshness, especially in warmer climates or if you’ve made a large batch, store it in the refrigerator where it can last even longer. You can even freeze fudge for several months; just make sure it’s tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in an airtight freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Customizing Your Fudge with Flavorful Additions: This peanut butter fudge recipe is incredibly versatile and serves as a fantastic base for customization. Feel free to play with the ingredients to add your personal touch!
- Enhanced Richness: For an extra layer of warmth and complexity, stir in a teaspoon or two of pure vanilla extract along with the peanut butter and marshmallow fluff. Vanilla complements peanut butter beautifully and adds a gourmet touch.
- Textural Delights: If you enjoy a fudge with more bite and a less uniform texture, consider adding various mix-ins. Roughly chopped nuts, such as roasted peanuts, pecans, or walnuts, are a classic addition. For chocolate lovers, despite this being a “no chocolate” fudge recipe, miniature chocolate chips or peanut butter chips can be stirred in for a delightful contrast. White chocolate chips also provide a lovely creaminess and a different flavor profile. Stir these additions in at the same time you add the peanut butter and marshmallow fluff, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the fudge.
- Spice it Up: A tiny pinch of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg can add an unexpected, cozy flavor dimension, especially during the holiday season.
- Sweet & Salty: For a popular sweet and salty contrast, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt over the top of the fudge after spreading it into the pan, before it sets. This elevates the peanut butter flavor wonderfully.
DISCOVER EVEN MORE DELECTABLE FUDGE RECIPES
I absolutely adore homemade fudge! The holiday season truly is the best time of year to indulge in making a few different batches to adorn your festive dessert trays and share with loved ones. If you’re looking for another classic, old-fashioned fudge recipe or perhaps something a little more adventurous, I have plenty of delightful options to share with you. Expand your repertoire of sweet treats with these tried-and-true favorites, each offering a unique flavor and texture profile:
- Candy Bar Fudge (pictured above): A fun and easy recipe that lets you transform your favorite candy bars into rich, decadent fudge squares.
- Mint Fudge: A refreshing and cooling treat, perfect for after-dinner indulgence or holiday festivities, with its vibrant minty flavor.
- Chocolate Orange Fudge: A sophisticated blend of rich chocolate and bright, zesty orange, offering a delightful citrusy twist to classic fudge.
- Never Fail Chocolate Fudge: The quintessential, foolproof chocolate fudge recipe that lives up to its name, guaranteeing perfect results every time.
- White Chocolate Cream Cheese Fudge: A uniquely creamy and tangy fudge, elevated by the addition of cream cheese for an ultra-smooth texture and rich flavor.
- Maple Fudge: A wonderfully autumnal and comforting fudge, boasting the warm, sweet notes of pure maple syrup, perfect for fall gatherings.
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge: For those who love the classic combination, this recipe brings together the best of both worlds in one irresistible square.
Do you crave a little delicious, effortless fudge in your life? Then look no further! Make this homemade peanut butter fudge today and prepare to witness how quickly this sweet, creamy treat disappears. I promise it will be an enormous hit with all the peanut butter lovers in your life, leaving everyone asking for the recipe. Its simplicity, combined with its unforgettable taste, makes it a true culinary gem you’ll want to revisit again and again!
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Print Recipe
Peanut Butter Fudge
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons butter softened
- 2 cups sugar
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 ⅓ cup peanut butter
- 1 7 ounce jar marshmallow fluff
Instructions
- Line an 8×8 square pan with foil and grease it with butter.
In a heavy saucepan over medium heat combine sugar and milk and bring it to a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.
Stir in peanut butter and marshmallow creme until blended.
Spread into the prepared pan, and cool slightly.
Place in the refrigerator until the fudge sets up and is firm.
Using the foil. Lift the fudge from the pan, remove the foil and cut it into squares.
Notes
To make this peanut butter fudge recipe in the microwave: Instead of using a saucepan to boil the milk and sugar, you can bring it to a boil by microwaving it on high for 2 minutes. Whip with a whisk or mixer for 1 minute and microwave again for 30 seconds. Complete the rest of the recipe as directed.