Description
This Easy Peanut Butter Fudge recipe offers a rich, creamy, and irresistibly smooth treat made with peanut butter, peanut butter chips, and marshmallow creme. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect no-bake dessert for peanut butter lovers, featuring a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and delightful nutty flavor, ideal for festive occasions or anytime indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Fudge Base
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 (5-ounce) can evaporated milk (about 2/3 cup)
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (12 tablespoons)
Peanut Butter Mix
- 1/3 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- 1 (10-ounce) package peanut butter chips
- 1 (7-ounce) jar marshmallow creme
Optional Topping
- 1/4 cup salted peanuts (chopped, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Butter an 8×8-inch baking dish or spray it with nonstick cooking spray and set aside to prevent the fudge from sticking once poured.
- Cook the Sugar Mixture: In a medium-sized, heavy pot, combine the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and unsalted butter. Heat on medium, stirring frequently to dissolve the sugar and prevent burning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then continue boiling for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly to ensure even cooking. Use a candy thermometer to monitor until it reaches the soft ball stage temperature of 235°F (113°C).
- Mix in Peanut Butter and Chips: Remove the pot from heat immediately once the temperature is reached. Stir in the peanut butter, peanut butter chips, and marshmallow creme thoroughly until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth. If using chopped salted peanuts, fold most into the mixture, reserving a few to sprinkle on top.
- Set and Cool: Quickly pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it evenly. Sprinkle the reserved chopped peanuts on top if desired. Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature until firm.
- Cut and Store: Once cooled and set, cut the fudge into 24 squares. Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Notes
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent scorching while cooking the sugar mixture.
- The candy thermometer ensures the fudge sets properly by reaching the ideal soft ball stage.
- Both creamy and crunchy peanut butter work well depending on your texture preference.
- Adding marshmallow creme contributes to the fudge’s smooth and creamy texture.
- For a nut-free version, omit the salted peanuts entirely.
- Store fudge at room temperature, but refrigerate in hot climates to prevent melting.
