If dessert dreams had a flavor, it would taste just like this Easy Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge Delight Recipe. Imagine a fudgy bite that melts instantly on your tongue—the sweet, nutty richness of peanut butter entwined with hints of vanilla and pure old-fashioned comfort. This is the kind of treat you whip up for friends, sneak a square for yourself, and watch disappear from the plate at lightning speed. With a handful of pantry staples and a few simple steps, you’re just hours away from fudge bliss that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s take a look at the wonderfully short ingredient list! Each item is simple, but together they create the lush texture and deep flavor that makes this Easy Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge Delight Recipe a classic favorite. Here’s what you’ll be using—and why every element matters:
- 2 cups granulated sugar: The backbone of your fudge; it gives structure and the perfect sweetness to balance the peanut butter.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and ensures the fudge is luxuriously smooth.
- 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter: The star ingredient, bringing bold flavor and velvety texture—use your favorite brand for best results.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Offers a depth of flavor and enhances the overall aroma of your fudge.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch but utterly essential; it sharpens the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cut into pieces): Adds richness and glossy smoothness; cutting it up helps it melt quickly and evenly.
How to Make Easy Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge Delight Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, making sure there’s enough overhang on the sides to lift the set fudge out easily later. This small step keeps your fudge from sticking and ensures those beautiful, clean-edged squares when you’re ready to serve.
Step 2: Heat the Sugar and Milk
Grab a medium saucepan and combine the granulated sugar and whole milk. Set this over medium heat and stir constantly as the mixture warms, dissolving the sugar completely. Patience here guarantees a silky-smooth fudge, free from graininess!
Step 3: Bring It to a Boil
Once the sugar has dissolved, keep stirring until it reaches a gentle boil. Let it boil for 2–3 minutes, but don’t stir during this period—this helps achieve that classic fudge consistency. Watch carefully so your mixture doesn’t boil over!
Step 4: Add Peanut Butter, Butter, Vanilla, and Salt
Remove the pan from the heat right away. Now, quickly mix in the creamy peanut butter, chunks of unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir rapidly: you want everything to melt together into a unified, smooth, and glossy mixture.
Step 5: Pour and Smooth
Immediately pour the fudge into your prepared pan and use a spatula to smooth the top. Work quickly here while the fudge is still soft and spreadable. If you’re adding chopped peanuts for extra crunch, fold them in just before this step.
Step 6: Cool and Set
Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about an hour; this gentle cooling helps prevent any crystallization. Once it’s mostly firm, pop the whole pan into the refrigerator for another 1–2 hours so it’s perfectly set and easy to cut.
Step 7: Slice and Enjoy
When the fudge is completely set, lift it out using the parchment overhang and slice into sixteen squares. Each square promises melt-in-your-mouth goodness and plenty of peanut butter flavor!
How to Serve Easy Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge Delight Recipe
Garnishes
Let’s dress this fudge up! Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top before the fudge sets for a sophisticated touch, or gently press in a few extra chopped peanuts to hint at the flavors inside. For a whimsical finish, dust with a bit of cocoa powder or drizzle with melted dark chocolate—fancy without any fuss.
Side Dishes
Pair these fudge squares with a cold glass of milk, a mug of robust coffee, or even some fresh berries for brightness. For dessert platters at gatherings, partner the fudge with crisp cookies, shortbread, or chocolate-dipped pretzels for variety and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Easy Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge Delight Recipe into irresistible gifts by wrapping the squares in parchment and tying with a bit of kitchen twine. At parties, stack them high on a tiered cake stand, or mix them with other fudges and candies for a showstopping dessert board. You can also cut smaller cubes and place them in mini cupcake liners for poppable party treats.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers of the Easy Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge Delight Recipe will keep beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week; just make sure to separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking. For ultimate freshness, the fridge is your friend—it will keep your fudge perfect for up to two weeks.
Freezing
If you want to save this treat for a special occasion (or just put temptation out of immediate reach), you can absolutely freeze the fudge! Place cut squares in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a zip-top bag or container. Frosty fudge will keep for up to three months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating
Since fudge is at its best at room temperature, there’s really no need to reheat it. If your fudge has been stored in the fridge or freezer, simply let it sit on the counter for about 30 minutes to restore that luscious creamy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fudge oily or grainy.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Definitely! If you love a little crunch, simply swap in crunchy peanut butter for all or part of the creamy. You can also stir in extra chopped peanuts for even more texture—it’s a fun twist on the Easy Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge Delight Recipe.
How do I prevent my fudge from becoming grainy?
The secret is to dissolve the sugar completely in the milk before boiling and avoid stirring once it comes to a boil. Following these steps helps ensure your fudge will turn out perfectly creamy every time.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely! Double all ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Just watch the boiling stage closely, as a larger volume may take an extra minute or two to come together. Everyone will appreciate the extra fudge!
Is there a dairy-free way to make this fudge?
You can experiment by swapping the milk for a rich non-dairy alternative like full-fat coconut milk, and try a vegan butter substitute. The fudge may have a slightly different flavor but should still set up deliciously.
What’s the best way to cut clean squares?
For picture-perfect pieces, use a long sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry. Press down firmly rather than sawing and wipe the blade between each cut for the neatest results when serving your Easy Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge Delight Recipe.
Final Thoughts
Life is simply sweeter when you have a batch of this Easy Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge Delight Recipe in the fridge. Whether you share it or savor each square yourself, it’s a treat that always brings smiles. Give it a try—the magic is all in those simple steps and sensational flavors. Happy fudging!
Print
Easy Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge Delight Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of this Easy Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge Delight. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a decadent treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth cravings.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cut into pieces)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy removal.
- Cook the Fudge: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and milk. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil, then let it boil for 2–3 minutes without stirring.
- Combine Ingredients: Remove from heat and immediately stir in the peanut butter, butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix quickly until smooth and well combined.
- Set the Fudge: Pour the fudge into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Let it cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for another 1–2 hours or until fully set.
- Serve: Once firm, lift the fudge out of the pan and cut into squares.
Notes
Notes:
- For a crunchier texture, stir in 1/2 cup of chopped peanuts before pouring into the pan.
- This fudge can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0.8g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
