Description
This Easy Peanut Butter Fudge recipe combines creamy peanut butter, sweet marshmallow creme, and rich peanut butter chips into a smooth, delicious treat. Perfect for peanut butter lovers, this fudge is quick to make with simple ingredients and a stovetop cooking method. Ideal for parties, gifts, or a sweet snack, it delivers a rich, creamy texture with optional crunchy nuts for added texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Fudge Base Ingredients
- 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 Toppings
- 1/4 cup salted peanuts, chopped (optional, reserve a few for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Butter an 8×8-inch baking dish or spray it with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside to ensure the fudge won’t stick after cooking.
- Cook Sugar Mixture: In a medium-sized, heavy pot, combine the granulated sugar, evaporated milk, and unsalted butter. Place over medium heat and cook while stirring frequently until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Boil to Soft Ball Stage: Once boiling, reduce to a steady boil and continue to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Use a candy thermometer to check the temperature and remove from heat once it reaches 235°F, the soft ball stage.
- Add Peanut Butter Ingredients: Immediately stir in the peanut butter, peanut butter chips, and marshmallow creme until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate Nuts (Optional): If using, fold in the chopped salted peanuts, reserving a few to sprinkle on top of the fudge for texture and garnish.
- Set the Fudge: Pour the mixture quickly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Allow the fudge to cool completely at room temperature until firm.
- Serve and Store: Once cooled, cut the fudge into squares as desired. Store leftover fudge in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent burning while boiling the sugar mixture.
- Stir constantly during boiling to avoid scorching the fudge.
- The candy thermometer is essential for reaching the correct soft ball temperature for perfect fudge texture.
- Peanut butter can be creamy or crunchy depending on your texture preference.
- Store fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
- Add chopped nuts for crunchy texture or omit for smooth fudge.
