This Peanut Butter Fudge is about to become your new favorite dessert escape. Imagine velvety, melt-in-your-mouth squares bursting with sweet, nutty richness, finished with the simplest prep—no candy thermometer required! Quick to whip up and a total showstopper to serve, this recipe makes it blissfully easy to satisfy your sweet tooth, whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or treating yourself to a little late-night indulgence. With nothing but classic pantry staples, you’ll have a batch of irresistible fudge chilling in moments, ready to share (or keep all to yourself—no judgment).

Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Peanut Butter Fudge lies in its simplicity—just a handful of essential ingredients that work together to create irresistible creaminess and depth of flavor. Every single component brings something special, from the smooth body to the whisper of vanilla. Here’s what you’ll need:

Creamy peanut butter: The obvious star, this gives your fudge that classic, rich peanutty flavor and smooth, dreamy texture.
Unsalted butter: Melts into the fudge for richness and helps hold everything together without overpowering the peanut flavor.
Vanilla extract: Just a teaspoon adds warmth and enhances all the other flavors for a truly homemade taste.
Powdered sugar: A must for sweetness and structure—it dissolves quickly, making the fudge glossy and firm.

How to Make Peanut Butter Fudge

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure there’s a little overhang for easy lifting later. This step ensures your Peanut Butter Fudge will come out cleanly, with sharp, beautiful edges—no sticking or frustration.

Step 2: Melt Peanut Butter and Butter

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your creamy peanut butter and unsalted butter. Microwave the mixture in 30-second bursts, giving it a good stir after each interval. This gentle melting process keeps everything smooth and prevents scorching, leading to that velvety texture every fudge lover adores.

Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract

Once your peanut butter and butter are fully melted and combined, stir in the vanilla extract. This is your chance to infuse the base with an inviting, round flavor that gives each bite its homemade magic.

Step 4: Mix In Powdered Sugar

Gradually add in the powdered sugar, stirring with each addition to avoid lumps. Take your time here—it’s a bit of an arm workout, but totally worth it. Your mixture should come together into a thick, glossy, fudge-like batter that holds its shape beautifully.

Step 5: Spread and Chill

Scrape the Peanut Butter Fudge mixture into your prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula for that quintessential fudge finish. If you love a salty-sweet combo, sprinkle a touch of sea salt on top before chilling. Pop the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, allowing the fudge to set and firm up. Once chilled, use the parchment overhang to lift the block out and cut into bite-sized squares.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Fudge

Garnishes

Dress up your Peanut Butter Fudge with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a dusting of extra powdered sugar. For crunch, top with roasted peanuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate. These simple touches turn each square into a mini masterpiece.

Side Dishes

Pair your fudge with fresh berries or sliced bananas for a light, fruity contrast, or set out a platter with dark chocolate pieces and soft cheeses for an elevated dessert board. Hot coffee, chai, or cold milk all make perfect companions for this rich treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your Peanut Butter Fudge into assorted shapes using mini cookie cutters for festive flair, or stack squares in clear jars tied with ribbon for heartwarming edible gifts. Mix in crushed pretzels or swirl with a ribbon of jam for fun variations that keep guests guessing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Peanut Butter Fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it stays fresh and silky for up to one week. Pop a sheet of parchment between layers to prevent sticking if you’re stacking pieces.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap your fudge squares tightly in plastic wrap and tuck them into a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to three months, making them perfect for holiday prep or snacking emergencies.

Reheating

Peanut Butter Fudge is meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If your fudge is frozen, simply thaw squares in the fridge or let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter gives your Peanut Butter Fudge delightful little bits of roasted peanut in every bite, adding texture and a rustic, homemade vibe. Just swap it in at a 1:1 ratio for an easy twist.

My fudge turned out a bit too soft. What did I do wrong?

If your fudge isn’t setting firm, it’s usually a case of not enough powdered sugar or not chilling long enough. Make sure to pack those cups of sugar and give the fudge the full two-hour chill time for best results.

Can I make this Peanut Butter Fudge vegan?

Yes! Use your favorite plant-based butter and double-check your powdered sugar is vegan (some contain bone char). With those simple swaps, you’ll have a dairy-free, vegan-friendly treat that everyone can enjoy.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as written, Peanut Butter Fudge is naturally gluten-free, as none of the ingredients contain gluten. Always confirm labels on your specific brands if you’re serving someone with celiac disease or a gluten allergy.

What’s the best way to cut clean squares?

The secret to pretty, clean-cut fudge squares is to use a sharp, thin-bladed knife, wiped clean between cuts. Chilled fudge holds its shape better and won’t drag, helping each square look bakery-perfect with minimal effort.

Final Thoughts

If you crave a sweet treat that feels like pure happiness in every bite, you have to try this Peanut Butter Fudge. It’s easy, fail-proof, and ridiculously delicious—basically everything you want in a dessert. Make a batch soon and delight everyone lucky enough to grab a piece!

Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe

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4.5 from 19 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 36 small squares 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the creamy goodness of this easy-to-make Peanut Butter Fudge. With just a few simple ingredients and a no-bake method, you can enjoy delicious fudge in no time.

Ingredients

Scale

Peanut Butter Fudge:

2 cups creamy peanut butter
1 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 cups powdered sugar

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Instructions

Prepare the Mixture: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine peanut butter and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until melted and smooth.
Add Flavor: Stir in vanilla extract. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth and no lumps remain.
Set and Serve: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared dish and smooth the top. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. Cut into small squares and serve.

Notes

For added flavor, sprinkle sea salt on top before chilling.
You can use crunchy peanut butter for more texture.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American