Making peanut butter fudge at home is a rewarding experience, combining simplicity with the delight of creating sweet treats from scratch. Whether you're looking for a quick dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth, a homemade gift, or an addition to your bake sale, this Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe will not disappoint. Not only does it require minimal ingredients, but it also comes together in a snap, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
Ingredients for Peanut Butter Fudge
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter
- 1 cup butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 1⁄2 cups powdered sugar
- A pinch of salt
Preparation Steps
- Preparation: Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, allowing some overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease if using aluminum foil.
- Blend Butter and Peanut Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup of butter and 1 cup of peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.
- Add Vanilla and Salt: Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance flavor.
- Incorporate Powdered Sugar: Slowly sift in the powdered sugar, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. The mixture will become quite thick, but continue until everything is well incorporated.
- Spread the Fudge: Pour this mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly using a spatula or the back of a spoon. Smooth the top for a professional finish.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
- Serve: Use the parchment or foil overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan. Slice into squares or rectangles with a sharp knife, and serve or store in an airtight container.
✍️ Note: For a chocolate variation, melt 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in the peanut butter and butter mixture before adding the sugar.
Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Fudge
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for natural peanut butter and high-quality butter for the best taste.
- Microwave Intervals: Avoid overheating the peanut butter and butter. Short intervals prevent burning or uneven melting.
- Mixing the Sugar: Sift the powdered sugar to prevent lumps, which could result in a grainy texture.
- Cutting the Fudge: For clean cuts, use a sharp, hot knife. Dip the knife in hot water, wipe it, and then slice through the fudge.
By following these steps and incorporating the tips provided, you'll be able to whip up batches of this peanut butter fudge, ensuring a delightful and impressive homemade sweet. It's an excellent way to explore home baking without needing a culinary degree or years of experience. The simplicity of the recipe, combined with its delicious outcome, makes it a go-to for anyone craving a sweet treat or in need of a quick and easy dessert.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
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Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter for a different texture. Keep in mind, the texture might be less smooth, but the flavor will still be delicious.
How long can I store this peanut butter fudge?
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Store the fudge in an airtight container. It can last up to 2 weeks at room temperature, or you can refrigerate it for up to a month. For longer storage, freeze individual pieces and thaw before serving.
Can I double or halve the recipe?
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Absolutely, the recipe scales easily. Just adjust the quantities accordingly and keep the same preparation method.
