If you have a sweet tooth and a love for nostalgic flavors, this Easy Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe is the answer to your dessert dreams. It perfectly balances creamy peanut butter with rich brown sugar and a velvety, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether you’re looking for a comforting treat to share with friends or eager to whip up something that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this classic fudge delivers every time with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. You’ll be amazed at how easily you can create a timeless confection that tastes like it took hours to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are incredibly simple but essential for crafting the perfect peanut butter fudge. Each plays a crucial role, from sweetness and creaminess to texture and depth of flavor, making this recipe both straightforward and impressive.
- 2 cups brown sugar (packed): Adds deep, rich sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor that forms the base of the fudge.
- ¾ cup whole milk: Provides moisture and creaminess for a smooth fudge consistency.
- ½ cup salted butter: Enhances flavor while helping the fudge set with a luscious texture.
- 1 cup peanut butter: Brings that unmistakable nutty richness and creamy softness to every bite.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and subtle complexity, rounding out the flavors perfectly.
- 3 cups powdered sugar (sifted): The key to sweetness and structure—sifting prevents lumpiness and ensures a silky final result.
How to Make Easy Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan for Easy Removal
Start by lining an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper or an aluminum foil sling. If you opt for foil, make sure to butter it generously—this little trick makes removing the fudge from the pan smooth and stress-free later on.
Step 2: Combine and Heat the Sugar, Milk, and Butter
In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, stir together the packed brown sugar, whole milk, and salted butter. Keep stirring frequently until the sugar and butter completely dissolve and the mixture reaches a boil. This step is crucial for creating that rich, caramelized base of your fudge.
Step 3: Boil the Mixture
Allow the mixture to boil steadily for 2 minutes. This timing ensures the perfect consistency and concentration for your fudge, so keep a close eye on it to avoid burning. Then, remove it promptly from the heat to move on to the next step.
Step 4: Mix in Peanut Butter and Vanilla
Immediately stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This is where your fudge starts to take on its signature creamy peanut butter flavor that makes this recipe so special.
Step 5: Incorporate the Powdered Sugar
Place the sifted powdered sugar into a large bowl, then carefully pour your hot peanut butter mixture over it. This gradual mixing sets the stage for your fudge to develop that classic firmness without losing the luscious softness.
Step 6: Beat Until Smooth
Using a hand mixer, beat the combined mixture until smooth and free of lumps. The key here is to work out any powdered sugar clumps so the fudge will be perfectly creamy and uniform in texture.
Step 7: Transfer and Set
Pour the fudge into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Let it set at room temperature for about 3 hours. Patience here pays off with that satisfying, sliceable fudge consistency you’re aiming for.
Step 8: Cool Completely and Slice
Once the fudge has set, allow it to cool completely. Then slice it into squares—each piece a perfect bite of creamy, sweet, peanut buttery bliss ready to be enjoyed or gifted.
How to Serve Easy Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
While this Easy Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe stands beautifully on its own, adding a sprinkle of sea salt or a few chopped roasted peanuts on top can elevate the flavor with delightful texture and balance. For a festive touch, drizzle melted chocolate or dust with cocoa powder.
Side Dishes
Pair your fudge with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon indulgence. It also goes wonderfully alongside fresh fruit or simple vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast of flavors and temperatures.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap individual fudge pieces in wax paper squares and tie with colorful twine to make charming homemade gifts. Arrange them on a decorative plate for dessert tables or pack them in a tin layered with parchment for sharing with loved ones during holidays and special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature, and it will stay fresh for about one week. Proper storage ensures your fudge maintains its soft, creamy texture without drying out or hardening excessively.
Freezing
You can freeze this Easy Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe for up to 3 months. Just wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap, place it in a freezer-safe container, and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve flavor and texture.
Reheating
If the fudge becomes too firm after refrigerated storage or freezing, let it sit at room temperature for a bit before enjoying. Avoid microwaving, as this can alter the texture and cause the sugar to crystallize rather than soften.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of regular peanut butter?
Yes, natural peanut butter works well, but because it contains less sugar and more oil, your fudge may have a slightly different texture and taste. Stir well to ensure smooth integration.
Is it necessary to sift the powdered sugar?
Sifting powdered sugar is strongly recommended because it breaks up clumps and helps you achieve a smooth, lump-free fudge. Skipping this step can result in a grainy consistency.
What pan size is best for this recipe?
An 8×8-inch pan is ideal for achieving the perfect thickness and cooking time called for in this recipe. Using a different size may require adjusting the setting time.
Can I substitute milk with a non-dairy alternative?
Whole milk adds creaminess and helps the fudge set properly, but you can try a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Just keep in mind the flavor and texture might vary slightly.
How long does it take for the fudge to set?
This fudge typically sets in about 3 hours at room temperature. For a firmer texture, you can refrigerate it for additional time.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about an Easy Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe that can transform a simple snack time into a celebration of nostalgic comfort and sweetness. Once you make this fudge, with its creamy texture and rich flavor, you’ll find it becomes a go-to recipe for sharing joy with friends and family. So why wait? Dive in, and enjoy every delicious bite of this timeless classic!
Print
Easy Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 36 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge recipe creates rich, creamy, and smooth fudge pieces with a perfect blend of peanut butter and brown sugar. Using simple ingredients and straightforward stovetop cooking techniques, this nostalgic treat is quick to prepare and ideal for sharing or gifting.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups brown sugar (packed)
- ¾ cup whole milk
- ½ cup salted butter
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar (sifted to break up clumps)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper or an aluminum foil sling. If using foil, butter it lightly to ensure the fudge will release easily once set.
- Combine Sugar, Milk, and Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the brown sugar, whole milk, and salted butter. Stir frequently while heating to dissolve the sugar and melt the butter.
- Boil the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil. Allow it to boil for 2 minutes while stirring to prevent sticking or burning, then remove the pan from heat.
- Add Peanut Butter and Vanilla: Stir the peanut butter and vanilla extract into the hot mixture until it is smooth and fully combined.
- Mix with Powdered Sugar: Place the sifted powdered sugar in a large bowl. Pour the hot peanut butter mixture over the powdered sugar.
- Beat the Fudge Batter: Using a hand mixer, beat the mixture until smooth and lump-free, ensuring all powdered sugar is fully incorporated.
- Transfer to Pan and Set: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Let the fudge set at room temperature for about 3 hours until firm.
- Slice and Serve: Once completely cool and set, remove the fudge from the pan using the parchment or foil sling and slice into 36 pieces using a sharp knife.
Notes
- For best results, use creamy peanut butter for a smoother texture.
- Make sure to sift the powdered sugar to avoid lumps in the fudge.
- Butter the foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- You can store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Cut fudge with a warm knife dipped in hot water for clean slices.
