If you’ve been craving a sweet treat that’s rich, creamy, and downright irresistible, this Easy Peanut Butter Fudge recipe is the answer. With just four simple ingredients, you can create a melt-in-your-mouth dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re whipping up a quick holiday candy tray, making a sweet gift for friends, or simply treating yourself to some comfort food after a long week, this recipe never disappoints. Unlike complicated candy recipes that require a candy thermometer and tricky timing, this fudge is virtually foolproof. A little sugar, a splash of milk, creamy peanut butter, and fragrant vanilla extract come together to create a classic dessert with minimal effort. It’s a no-fail, no-stress recipe that tastes like pure nostalgia and satisfies every peanut butter lover’s sweet tooth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Just 4 ingredients: No long shopping list or specialty items required.
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Quick to make: Ready in about 10 minutes, plus cooling time.
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Perfect texture: Smooth, creamy, and firm without being crumbly.
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Crowd-pleaser: A hit at parties, bake sales, and holiday gatherings.
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Foolproof recipe: No candy thermometer or advanced skills needed.
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Customizable: Add nuts, chocolate swirls, or toppings to make it your own.
Ingredient Breakdown
Sugar: Provides sweetness and structure to the fudge. When boiled with milk, it creates the base for the smooth texture.
Milk: Adds creaminess and helps dissolve the sugar, ensuring the fudge sets properly.
Peanut butter: The star of the recipe, adding nutty flavor, richness, and that silky texture we all crave.
Vanilla extract: Balances the sweetness with warm, aromatic notes that make the fudge taste homemade.
Pro Tips
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Use smooth peanut butter: Creamy peanut butter creates the best texture, but chunky can be used if you want crunch.
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Boil for exactly 2 ½ minutes: Too short and it won’t set, too long and it becomes grainy. A timer is your best friend here.
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Stir quickly after removing from heat: The mixture sets fast, so have your pan buttered and ready before you start.
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Line your dish with parchment paper: This makes removing and cutting the fudge much easier.
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Let it cool completely: Resist the urge to cut too soon—cooling helps it firm up into perfect squares.
Ingredient Swaps or Variations
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Chocolate peanut butter fudge: Stir in 1 cup of melted chocolate chips for a two-in-one treat.
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Nutty crunch: Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for extra texture.
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Sea salt finish: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top before cooling for a sweet-salty combo.
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Dairy-free option: Use almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk.
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Extra flavor boost: Swap vanilla for almond extract or add a pinch of cinnamon.
Serving Suggestions
This peanut butter fudge is versatile and pairs well with a variety of settings. Serve it as part of a holiday dessert platter alongside cookies and truffles. Wrap squares in parchment and tie with ribbon for a thoughtful edible gift. Pair it with coffee or hot chocolate for an afternoon pick-me-up, or simply enjoy a square (or two) as a late-night treat. For a party dessert table, arrange it in cupcake liners for easy grab-and-go snacking.
Make Ahead + Storage Tips
This recipe is excellent for making ahead of time. Once the fudge cools and is sliced into squares, store it in an airtight container. At room temperature, it lasts for up to 1 week, making it perfect for entertaining or gifting. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 3 weeks or freeze for up to 2 months. To freeze, place the fudge in layers with parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. The best part? This fudge actually improves in flavor and texture after a day, as the ingredients meld together beautifully.
A Little Cultural Note
Fudge has long been a staple of American kitchens, especially during the holiday season. Its origins date back to the late 19th century, when a cooking mishap with caramel led to the first recorded batch of fudge. Since then, it has become a beloved confection, with peanut butter fudge emerging as a Southern classic. Its simplicity, affordability, and comforting flavor have made it a recipe passed down through generations, often showing up at church gatherings, potlucks, and family reunions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use natural peanut butter?
A: It’s best to use traditional creamy peanut butter for this recipe. Natural peanut butter tends to separate and may not set properly.
Q: How do I know if the fudge will set?
A: As long as you boil the sugar and milk mixture for the full 2 ½ minutes, it will firm up beautifully once cooled.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, but be sure to use a larger saucepan so the mixture doesn’t boil over. Double the pan size as well, or use two 8×8 pans.
Q: What if my fudge turns out grainy?
A: This usually happens if the sugar wasn’t boiled long enough. Be sure to set a timer to avoid undercooking.
Q: Can I make this fudge in the microwave?
A: While this stovetop method guarantees smooth results, you can microwave the sugar and milk mixture in 30-second intervals until it boils, then follow the same steps.
Never-Fail 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a pot, combine sugar and milk. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Let it boil for 2 1/2 minutes.
- Remove from heat, then stir in peanut butter and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour into a buttered 8x8-inch dish.
- Let it cool completely, then slice and enjoy!
