Best Peanut Butter Fudge – Ready in 15 Minutes

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about peanut butter fudge. Maybe it reminds you of your grandmother’s kitchen, where trays of glossy fudge cooled on the counter during the holidays. Or maybe it’s the memory of unwrapping a small box of homemade fudge from a friend and savoring that first silky bite.

The beauty of homemade peanut butter fudge is its simplicity. No candy thermometer, no complicated techniques — just a saucepan, a handful of ingredients, and a little stirring. In under 20 minutes, you’ll have a pan of melt-in-your-mouth fudge ready to set.

Whether you’re preparing a last-minute treat for a bake sale, a thoughtful homemade gift, or simply a well-deserved indulgence for yourself, this easy peanut butter fudge recipe is about to become one of your go-to desserts.

What Makes This So Irresistible

Here’s why this recipe is about to win you over (and why readers love it):

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes of hands-on prep.
• Minimal Ingredients – Only seven pantry staples required.
• Foolproof Recipe – No candy thermometer or advanced techniques.
• Creamy Texture – Perfectly smooth fudge that melts in your mouth.
• Customizable – Easily add nuts, chocolate swirls, or sea salt.
• Perfect for Gifting – Wrap in parchment and tie with a bow for homemade holiday gifts.
• Crowd-Pleaser – A classic favorite that disappears fast at parties.

This isn’t just another fudge recipe — it’s the one you’ll return to again and again.

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Fudge

To create this decadent dessert, gather the following:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (or margarine for a dairy-free twist)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup whole milk (or almond milk for dairy-free)
• 1/4 cup peanut butter (creamy for smooth fudge, chunky for texture)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

Optional Substitutions

• Almond butter instead of peanut butter for a nutty variation.
• Coconut milk for a dairy-free option with extra richness.
• Add mix-ins like chopped peanuts, pretzels, or mini chocolate chips.

How to Make Peanut Butter Fudge – Step by Step

Follow these simple steps for the perfect fudge:

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal later.

Step 2: Cook the Base
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the sugar and milk until sugar fully dissolves.

Step 3: Bring to a Boil
Raise the heat to medium-high and bring mixture to a gentle boil for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add Flavor
Remove saucepan from heat. Stir in peanut butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.

Step 5: Mix in Powdered Sugar
Gradually whisk in powdered sugar, ensuring no lumps remain.

Step 6: Set the Fudge
Pour mixture into prepared pan, spreading evenly. Let cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.

Step 7: Slice & Serve
Lift fudge out using parchment overhang. Slice into squares and enjoy.

Pro Tips & Cooking Secrets

1. Use sifted powdered sugar to avoid graininess.
2. Don’t overboil — stick to 2 minutes for the smoothest texture.
3. Line the pan properly with parchment paper for easy removal.
4. Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth fudge.
5. Add a pinch of sea salt on top for balance.
6. Chill before cutting to get clean, sharp edges.
7. Room temp serving – fudge tastes best when slightly softened.
8. Double the recipe for gifting and parties — this fudge goes fast!
9. Mix in nuts or chocolate swirls for texture variety.
10. Store correctly (see below) to keep fudge fresh and creamy.
11. Avoid natural peanut butter unless well-stirred — it can separate.
12. Use a sharp, heated knife for picture-perfect squares.
13. Work quickly once peanut butter is added, so it doesn’t seize.

Variations & Substitutions

• Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge – Swirl melted chocolate into the mixture before setting.
• Vegan Peanut Butter Fudge – Use almond milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free chocolate.
• Nutty Crunch – Add chopped peanuts, almonds, or pecans for crunch.
• Festive Toppings – Sprinkle holiday sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or mini marshmallows.
• Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Fudge – Drizzle with caramel sauce before refrigerating.

Best Ways to Serve Peanut Butter Fudge

• Holiday Parties – A classic on dessert tables.
• Gifting – Wrap in wax paper or candy boxes with ribbons.
• Everyday Treat – Pair with coffee or hot cocoa.
• Bake Sales – Individually wrap for a crowd favorite.
• Celebrations – Serve as part of a dessert platter.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Serving Size: 1 piece (1/16 of recipe)
• Calories: 230 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg
• Sodium: 90 mg
• Sugar: 32 g
• Fiber: 1 g

Storage & Reheating Guide

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container up to 5 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for 2 weeks.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in parchment and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before serving.

FAQs –​ Peanut Butter Fudge

1. Do I need a candy thermometer for peanut butter fudge?
   No — this recipe is designed to be foolproof without one.
2. Can I use natural peanut butter?
   Yes, but it may result in slightly oilier fudge. Stir well before using.
3. Why is my fudge grainy?
   Likely due to undissolved sugar — stir well until sugar dissolves.
4. Can I double the recipe?
   Absolutely. Use a 9×13-inch pan instead.
5. Can I freeze fudge?
   Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
6. How do I cut fudge cleanly?
   Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry.
7. Can I make peanut butter fudge without milk?
   Yes, use almond or coconut milk.
8. What’s the best peanut butter for fudge?
   Creamy peanut butter for smooth fudge; chunky for texture.
9. Why isn’t my fudge setting?
   It may need more refrigeration time.
10. Is this recipe gluten-free?
    Yes, naturally gluten-free.
11. How long does peanut butter fudge last?
    About 2 weeks in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.
12. Can I add toppings?
    Yes — try sea salt, chocolate drizzle, or chopped nuts.
13. Why is my fudge too soft?
    It may not have boiled long enough.
14. Why is my fudge crumbly?
    Overmixing or not enough moisture can cause dryness.
15. Can I make fudge ahead of time?
    Yes, fudge stores well and is perfect for prepping before events.

More Tasty Ideas to Explore

• Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe – Easy No Bake Dessert
• Best Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
• Homemade Apple Pie Biscuits – Easy Dessert Recipe

Your Turn in the Kitchen

There you have it — the best peanut butter fudge recipe, simple, creamy, and perfect every time. Whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing it with loved ones, this recipe guarantees sweet success.

So now it’s your turn — grab that jar of peanut butter and start cooking! And don’t forget to share your twist in the comments: What’s your favorite way to make peanut butter fudge?

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