Description
This Easy Peanut Butter Fudge recipe is a creamy, rich, and indulgent treat perfect for peanut butter lovers. Made with simple pantry ingredients like sugar, evaporated milk, butter, peanut butter, and marshmallow creme, it yields a smooth and delicious fudge that sets quickly and can be customized with chopped salted peanuts for an extra crunch.
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 Mixture
- 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 generously with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the fudge once set. Set aside while you prepare the fudge mixture.
- Cook the sugar mixture: In a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and unsalted butter. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring frequently to prevent burning, until the mixture comes to a full boil.
- Boil to soft ball stage: Once boiling, continue to cook and stir constantly for about 5 minutes. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature carefully and continue cooking until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage at 235°F (113°C).
- Incorporate peanut butter and candies: Remove the pot from heat immediately. Stir in the peanut butter, peanut butter chips, and marshmallow creme until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth. If using salted peanuts, add most of the chopped nuts now and stir well to distribute evenly.
- Set the fudge: Pour the hot fudge mixture immediately into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved chopped peanuts on top if desired. Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature until firm.
- Serve and store: Once cooled, cut the fudge into squares of desired size. 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 ensure even heating and prevent burning.
- Stir constantly once the mixture starts boiling to avoid scorching the bottom.
- Peanut butter can be creamy or crunchy based on your texture preference.
- Adjust the amount of salted peanuts on top according to your taste and texture preference.
- For easier cutting, refrigerate the fudge briefly before slicing.
- Store fudge in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent it from drying out.
