Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Introduction
Peanut Butter Fudge is a rich, creamy treat that’s incredibly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. It has a smooth texture and a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors, ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing with friends.

Ingredients
- 1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter*
- 1 cup (2 sticks or 230g) unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 4 cups (460g) sifted confectioners’ sugar*
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 3/4 cup add-ins, such as chocolate chips, peanuts, or Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
Instructions
- Step 1: Line an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the fudge out later.
- Step 2: Melt the peanut butter and butter together in a large bowl. Slice the butter to help it melt evenly. Heat in the microwave, stirring every minute until smooth and completely melted.
- Step 3: Remove from the microwave and stir in the vanilla extract with a spatula or wooden spoon. Add salt if using, then gradually mix in the sifted confectioners’ sugar until the mixture is thick and dough-like.
- Step 4: If desired, fold in any add-ins like chocolate chips or peanuts while the mixture is still warm.
- Step 5: Press the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with the back of a spatula or spoon. The surface may appear a bit oily.
- Step 6: Cover tightly with aluminum foil and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or until firm.
- Step 7: Once set, lift the fudge out using the foil overhang and cut into pieces.
Tips & Variations
- For a salty-sweet contrast, add 1/4 teaspoon of salt to the mixture before combining with sugar.
- Try stirring in chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or chopped peanut butter cups for extra texture and flavor.
- Use natural peanut butter for a more intense peanut flavor, but expect a slightly different texture.
- Press parchment paper into the pan instead of foil for easier cleanup if preferred.
Storage
Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To serve, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes for a softer texture. Avoid leaving it out too long as it can become too soft.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a bit of texture in your fudge. It will add small peanut pieces throughout.
Do I need to sift the confectioners’ sugar?
Sifting helps prevent lumps in the fudge and ensures a smooth texture, so it’s recommended but not absolutely necessary if your sugar is fine and lump-free.
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Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 16 pieces 1x
Description
This creamy and rich Peanut Butter Fudge recipe is a quick and easy no-bake treat that combines smooth peanut butter, buttery richness, and sweet powdered sugar for a classic homemade confection. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, it can be customized with optional add-ins like chocolate chips or peanuts for extra texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Fudge Base
- 1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup (2 sticks or 230g) unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 4 cups (460g) sifted confectioners’ sugar
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon salt
Add-Ins (Optional)
- 3/4 cup add-ins such as chocolate chips, peanuts, or Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the fudge out after it sets.
- Melt Butter and Peanut Butter: In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the peanut butter and butter together. Slice the butter into pieces to help it melt evenly. Microwave the mixture in one-minute intervals, stirring well between each until completely smooth and melted.
- Add Flavorings: Remove the bowl from the microwave and stir in the pure vanilla extract using a silicone spatula or wooden spoon. If you prefer a salty-sweet flavor, add 1/4 teaspoon salt and mix well.
- Incorporate Sugar: Gradually add the sifted confectioners’ sugar, stirring continuously until the mixture is thick and resembles cookie dough. This may require some elbow grease as the fudge becomes dense and stiff.
- Mix in Add-Ins: If using any optional add-ins like chocolate chips or peanuts, fold them into the warm fudge mixture evenly to distribute the flavors.
- Set the Fudge: Press the fudge mixture firmly into the prepared pan and smooth the surface with the back of a spatula or spoon. The surface may appear slightly oily due to the butter.
- Chill: Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours or until the fudge is firm and set.
- Serve and Store: Once set, use the foil overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan. Cut it into pieces as desired. Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Ensure the confectioners’ sugar is sifted to avoid lumps in the fudge.
- For a saltier fudge, do not skip the optional salt; it balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Add-ins can be customized to your preference for added texture and flavor.
- Press the fudge firmly into the pan to create clean cuts and even thickness.
- Store fudge refrigerated to keep it firm and prevent melting.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (melting time)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: peanut butter fudge, no-bake fudge, easy fudge recipe, homemade fudge, peanut butter dessert, quick fudge

