Introduction
Indulge your sweet tooth with this incredibly easy peanut butter fudge that is sure to become a family favorite! This luscious treat is rich and creamy, with the perfect balance of sweetness and salty goodness that only peanut butter can provide. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert to satisfy your cravings or a delightful gift for a special occasion, this fudge is the answer. In just a little over two hours, you can create a batch of this dreamy confection that melts in your mouth.
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 16 squares
Directions and Instructions
- Start by lining an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides. This will make it a cinch to lift the fudge out once it’s set!
- In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Stir gently to ensure it doesn’t scorch; you want it beautifully melted, not browned.
- Once the butter is melted, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the creamy peanut butter until the two are fully combined into a velvety mixture.
- Add in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir with enthusiasm until everything is mixed together smoothly and you achieve a rich, creamy consistency.
- Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan, smoothing out the top.
- Now, it’s time to be patient! Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, or until it’s fully set and firm to the touch.
- Once the fudge is set, carefully lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into delightful squares to share—or keep for yourself!
Notes or Tips
For a little extra flair, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the top before the fudge sets. You can also sprinkle some chopped peanuts or sea salt for added texture and taste. This fudge can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week—if it lasts that long!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe is a great introduction to using the stovetop for candy making. Keeping the heat low while melting the butter ensures you maintain control and avoid burning. Additionally, stirring in the peanut butter off the heat helps to create a smooth, lump-free mixture. Following the cooling time is essential for achieving the perfect fudge consistency.
FAQ
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will give your fudge a delightful texture and an extra burst of peanut flavor.
How can I make this fudge even more decadent?
Feel free to mix in your favorite add-ins, such as chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, or even swirls of caramel for an indulgent twist!
What’s the best way to store leftover fudge?
Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. For longer storage, you can freeze it, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap.
Conclusion
This easy peanut butter fudge is a delightful way to satisfy your sweet cravings and impress your friends and family alike. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s hard to believe such a simple recipe can yield such scrumptious results. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a little piece of heaven right from your kitchen. Happy fudge-making!