Easy Homemade Peanut Butter Fudge

Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Pan

Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan (or a similar size pan) with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with butter. This will make it easier to remove the fudge once it’s set.

2. Melt the Butter and Peanut Butter

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once the butter is melted, add in the creamy peanut butter and stir until smooth and well combined. This should only take a minute or two. Be sure to keep the heat low to avoid burning the peanut butter.

3. Combine the Ingredients

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the sweetened condensed milk, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You’ll notice that the consistency will begin to thicken as the sugar dissolves into the peanut butter.

4. Transfer the Mixture to the Pan

Once everything is fully combined, pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, ensuring that the fudge is level and smooth.

5. Chill the Fudge

Place the pan in the refrigerator and let the fudge chill for at least 2-3 hours, or until it has fully set and become firm. If you’re in a hurry, you can place it in the freezer for about 30 minutes to speed up the process.

6. Cut into Squares

Once the fudge is firm, remove it from the refrigerator (or freezer) and lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper. Place it on a cutting board and cut it into small squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the fudge as a delicious treat at your next gathering, or enjoy a piece (or two) whenever the craving strikes! The fudge can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 weeks.

Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Fudge:

• Use Smooth Peanut Butter: For a creamy, smooth fudge, it’s best to use creamy peanut butter rather than crunchy. Crunchy peanut butter can cause the fudge to have a grainy texture.
• Don’t Overheat the Peanut Butter: Keep the heat low when melting the peanut butter with the butter to prevent it from burning or separating.
• Customize Your Fudge: Want to take your fudge to the next level? Stir in some chocolate chips for a chocolate-peanut butter combo, or sprinkle some chopped peanuts on top for added texture and crunch.
• Add a Topping: For an extra special touch, you can drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over the top of the fudge before chilling. You could also sprinkle a little sea salt on top to bring out the flavors.

Why This Peanut Butter Fudge is a Must-Make:

• No-Bake Convenience: Unlike many other fudge recipes that require you to cook and temper ingredients, this one is quick, easy, and doesn’t require any baking. The stove is only involved for a few minutes to melt the peanut butter and butter.
• Sweet and Savory Balance: The combination of peanut butter, sweetened condensed milk, and powdered sugar creates a balanced sweetness that’s never overwhelming.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a family barbecue, or just a night in, everyone loves peanut butter fudge. It’s a universally loved treat that’s sure to disappear fast!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a quick, decadent treat that will wow your friends and family, Easy Homemade Peanut Butter Fudge is the answer. It’s simple, creamy, and packed with the perfect amount of peanut butter flavor. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dessert that tastes like it came from a professional kitchen. So, what are you waiting for? Get in the kitchen and whip up a batch of this easy, creamy peanut butter fudge—you won’t regret it!