Description
This easy and creamy Peanut Butter Fudge recipe combines butter, creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to create a rich and delicious treat. Perfect for holiday gifting or anytime indulgence, this no-bake fudge is simple to prepare and can be decorated with colorful M&M’s for a festive touch.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1½ cups creamy peanut butter (NOT natural or no-stir varieties)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3¼ cups powdered sugar, sifted
Optional Garnish
- M&M’s for decoration
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Using the bottom of the 8×8 baking dish as a guide, cut a piece of parchment paper to fit inside. This will help smooth the fudge and protect it while chilling.
- Line the Pan: Pour 1 tablespoon of water into the bottom of the 8×8 pan to keep the parchment in place. Then line the pan with the parchment paper, making sure there are overhanging edges for easy removal.
- Melt Butter and Peanut Butter: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup unsalted butter and 1½ cups creamy peanut butter. Heat for 60 seconds, then stir until smooth.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add 3¼ cups sifted powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time, stirring thoroughly after each addition until the mixture has no lumps or white streaks.
- Pour Fudge Mixture: Transfer the fudge mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to evenly spread and smooth the top.
- Smooth and Chill: Place the pre-cut parchment paper on top of the fudge and use it to smooth the surface. Leave the parchment on top and refrigerate for 2 hours to set.
- Score the Fudge: After chilling, remove the fudge from the refrigerator and peel off the top parchment. Score the fudge into desired serving sizes using a sharp knife but don’t cut all the way through.
- Remove from Pan: Lift the fudge out of the pan using the overhanging parchment and place it on a cutting board.
- Slice the Fudge: Warm a sharp knife under hot water, dry it, and slice through the scored lines cleanly.
- Decorate: Optionally, place 2-3 red and green M&M’s on top of each fudge piece for a festive look.
- Store Properly: Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days or refrigerate up to 1 week. Fudge can also be frozen wrapped tightly for 2-3 months.
Notes
- Use an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- For freezing, wrap fudge in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag; thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Choose creamy peanut butter brands like Peter Pan, Skippy, Reese’s, or JIF for best results; each affects color and sweetness slightly.
- Adding water to the pan before lining helps keep parchment paper from shifting during spreading.
- Warming the knife before cutting helps achieve clean slices without sticking.
