Name: Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Cooking spray, as needed; 1 1/4 cups creamy peanut butter (not natural); 2 sticks (8 ounces) unsalted butter; 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 cups powdered sugar

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Introduction

Peanut butter fudge is a rich, creamy treat that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth dessert perfect for sharing or indulging solo.

The image shows a pile of small square fudge pieces stacked in an irregular heap on a white marbled surface. Each fudge piece is light brown with a slightly crumbly texture, with some edges showing small cracks and uneven surfaces. The fudge has a smooth, dense look with soft shadows highlighting the different layers formed by the stack. The background is softly blurred, keeping the focus fully on the rich, creamy blocks of fudge. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

Cooking spray, as needed
1 1/4 cups creamy peanut butter (not natural)
2 sticks (8 ounces) unsalted butter
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Line the bottom and all four sides of an 8-inch square baking dish with aluminum foil, then lightly coat with cooking spray. Alternatively, use two sheets of parchment paper placed perpendicular to cover all sides, allowing some overhang. Spray to hold parchment in place if needed.
Step 2: In a large, wide saucepan, combine the peanut butter, butter, and kosher salt. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Sift the powdered sugar into the warm mixture. Stir thoroughly with a stiff spatula, using the flat side to break up any lumps, until the fudge is smooth, well combined, and slightly thickened. Some tiny sugar specks are fine.
Step 4: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly with a metal or small offset spatula. Cover loosely—avoid touching the fudge surface—and refrigerate until firm, at least 3 hours or overnight.
Step 5: Using the parchment or foil overhang, lift the fudge from the dish onto a cutting board. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes to soften slightly, which helps prevent crumbling, then cut into 36 squares with a sharp knife.

Tips & Variations

Use creamy peanut butter for the smoothest texture; natural peanut butter may affect consistency.
For a nutty twist, fold in chopped roasted peanuts before chilling.
If you prefer sweeter fudge, add an extra 1/4 cup powdered sugar.
Line the dish with parchment paper for easier removal and neater edges.

Storage

Store peanut butter fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To soften before serving, let pieces sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. You can also freeze fudge in a sealed container for up to three months; thaw in the fridge before enjoying.

How to Serve

This image shows a close-up of many square pieces of peanut butter fudge arranged tightly side by side. Each piece is light brown with a smooth but slightly grainy texture. The surface of the fudge has soft swirls and small bumps, creating natural patterns across the squares. The fudge looks thick and creamy with clean, straight cut edges that form a grid-like pattern. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter for this fudge?

Natural peanut butter can be used, but it may result in a slightly grainier texture and different consistency because it contains more oil and less stabilizers than creamy peanut butter.

Do I need to sift the powdered sugar?

Sifting helps remove lumps and ensures a smooth fudge texture, but if your powdered sugar is fine and clump-free, you can stir it in carefully instead.