Peanut butter fudge is one of those treats that just feels like a warm hug. It’s rich, creamy, and melts in your mouth—plus, it’s ridiculously easy to make!
You don’t even need a candy thermometer or fancy tools. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, a gift, or just a sweet snack for yourself, this peanut butter fudge is a total winner.
Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 2 cups sugar
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for garnish
Tools:
- Medium saucepan
- Heatproof spatula
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups/spoons
Pro Tips
- Use creamy peanut butter. For the smoothest fudge, stick with classic, processed peanut butter like Jif or Skippy. Natural peanut butter might separate.
- Prep your pan first. Line the pan with parchment paper before you start so it’s ready to go when the fudge is done.
- Work quickly. Once the fudge is cooked and mixed, it sets fast—be ready to pour it into the pan immediately.
- Add toppings. Sprinkle flaky sea salt, chopped peanuts, or even mini chocolate chips on top for extra flair.
Substitutions and Variations
- Dairy-free? Use almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk.
- Crunchy texture? Use crunchy peanut butter or stir in chopped peanuts before pouring into the pan.
- Extra flavor: Swirl in a little melted chocolate for a chocolate-peanut butter combo.
How to make it
1. Boil the Sugar and Milk
In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and milk. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil. Let it boil for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Add the Peanut Butter and Vanilla
Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract. Mix quickly until the fudge is smooth and creamy.
3. Pour into the Pan
Pour the mixture into an 8×8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Spread it evenly with a spatula. If you’re using toppings like sea salt or chopped peanuts, sprinkle them on now.
4. Chill the Fudge
Place the pan in the refrigerator and let the fudge set for at least 1-2 hours, or until firm.
5. Cut and Serve
Once the fudge is firm, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into squares with a sharp knife and serve!
Leftovers and Storage
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- You can also freeze fudge in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before eating.
Conclusion
This Peanut Butter Fudge is creamy, sweet, and oh-so-satisfying. Plus, it’s so easy to make, you’ll wonder why you ever bought fudge from the store. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and let me know in the comments how it turned out or if you added your own spin. Happy snacking! 🥜✨
