Peanut Butter Fudge

Craving a deliciously rich and creamy treat? Peanut butter fudge is the perfect dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth with its smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Packed with the rich flavor of peanut butter and complemented by sweet marshmallow creme and a touch of salted peanuts, this fudge is a crowd-pleaser.

Whether you enjoy it as a holiday treat or a quick indulgence, peanut butter fudge is the ultimate no-bake dessert that’s always a hit.

Ingredients List

Creating a creamy and decadent Peanut Butter Fudge requires a few key components to achieve the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Let’s break down the ingredients needed for this delightful treat:

Fudge Ingredients

• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 1 (5-ounce) can evaporated milk (about 2/3 cup)
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter (12 tablespoons)
• 1/3 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
• 1 (10-ounce) package peanut butter chips
• 1 (7-ounce) jar marshmallow creme
• 1/4 cup salted peanuts (optional)

Required Kitchen Tools

When preparing Peanut Butter Fudge, having the right kitchen tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you will need:

1. Heavy Pot: A medium-sized, heavy pot ensures that your fudge cooks evenly without burning.
2. Candy Thermometer: A candy thermometer is crucial to achieve the correct temperature for the fudge to set properly.
3. Baking Dish: An 8×8-inch baking dish, preferably buttered or sprayed with nonstick cooking spray, is needed to set the fudge.
4. Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: A sturdy spoon or spatula helps you stir the fudge mixture while it’s cooking, ensuring that it’s smooth and free of lumps.

Having these tools on hand will make your Peanut Butter Fudge preparation much easier and more efficient.

Preparing the Fudge Mixture

Making Peanut Butter Fudge is all about getting the right consistency and ensuring the mixture is perfectly smooth and creamy. Follow these steps to prepare the fudge mixture for a deliciously rich treat.

Cooking the Fudge Base

To start, place the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and unsalted butter into a medium-sized heavy pot. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently. As the butter melts and the sugar dissolves, the mixture will begin to come to a boil. This is an important step—make sure to stir constantly to prevent the mixture from scorching or burning.

Boiling and Reaching the Right Temperature

Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat slightly and allow it to boil for about 5 minutes. Keep stirring the entire time to ensure that everything cooks evenly. To ensure that the fudge reaches the correct consistency, use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. You’re aiming for the soft ball temperature of 235°F (113°C), which will allow the fudge to set properly.

Once the temperature reaches 235°F, remove the pot from the heat immediately.

Mixing in the Peanut Butter and Chips

Now that your fudge base has reached the perfect temperature, it’s time to add the key ingredients that give this treat its signature flavor and creamy texture.

Stirring in the Peanut Butter and Marshmallow Creme

Add the peanut butter, peanut butter chips, and marshmallow creme into the hot fudge mixture. Stir vigorously until everything is melted and combined, creating a smooth, creamy texture. The peanut butter and peanut butter chips will melt into the mixture, while the marshmallow creme will give the fudge its soft and smooth finish. Make sure to keep stirring until everything is fully incorporated and there are no lumps remaining.

Optional Addition of Peanuts

If you love a bit of crunch, now is the time to add in the chopped salted peanuts. Stir in the peanuts, saving a few to sprinkle on top of the fudge for an added touch of texture and decoration. This step is completely optional, but the salted peanuts will enhance the peanut flavor and add a delicious crunch to each bite.

Pouring and Setting the Fudge

Once your peanut butter fudge mixture is perfectly smooth and mixed, it’s time to pour it into the prepared baking dish and let it set.

Pouring the Mixture

Immediately pour the warm fudge mixture into the greased or non-stick sprayed 8×8-inch baking dish. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the fudge into an even layer, making sure it reaches all corners of the dish. This ensures that every piece will have that perfect thickness.

Cooling and Cutting the Fudge

Let the fudge cool completely at room temperature. Once it has set, which usually takes a few hours, you can cut it into squares or rectangles, depending on your preferred size. The fudge will be firm and easy to slice once cooled.

Storing the Fudge

To keep your Peanut Butter Fudge fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can refrigerate the fudge, though it’s best enjoyed at room temperature for the creamiest texture.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Fudge is a simple yet irresistible treat that combines the creamy goodness of peanut butter with the rich sweetness of marshmallow creme and peanut butter chips.

By following these straightforward steps, you’ll create a delicious fudge that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a party, gifting it to friends and family, or enjoying it yourself, this peanut butter fudge is sure to be a hit.

And with the proper storage techniques, you can savor this sweet treat for days to come. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a batch of homemade Peanut Butter Fudge!