Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe

When I think about peanut butter fudge, I’m instantly transported back to my childhood kitchen, standing on a wobbly stool, watching my grandma whip up a batch for the holidays. The sweet, nutty aroma filled the house, and the first bite was always pure bliss.

I’m thrilled to share my quick and easy Peanut Butter Fudge recipe with you, ready in just a few hours!

Emily

Jump to Recipe Card

Easy Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe

When I think about peanut butter fudge, I’m instantly transported back to my childhood kitchen, standing on a wobbly stool, watching my grandma whip up a batch for the holidays. The sweet, nutty aroma filled the house, and the first bite was always pure bliss.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 5 minutes mins

Servings: 48 1-inch squares

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 200

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

Ingredients

• 1 cup vegetable shortening
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 3½ cups powdered sugar

Equipment

• 8×8 or 9×9 inch pan
• Mixing bowl
• microwave
• medium-size saucepan
• Parchment Paper

Method

 

1. Combine the peanut butter, vegetable shortening, and vanilla in a glass bowl and melt in the microwave for 90 seconds.
2. Stir to combine; it should come together very quickly and be smooth and creamy.
3. Slowly add the powdered sugar a cup or so at a time.
4. Stir to combine thoroughly.
5. Grease an 8-9″ pan with vegetable shortening or line with parchment.
6. Transfer the fudge mixture to the pan and press into the pan.
7. Chill for at least 4 hours before cutting.
8. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
9. Combine the peanut butter, vegetable shortening, and vanilla in a medium-size saucepan over medium-low heat.
10. Stir to combine; it should come together very quickly and be smooth and creamy.
11. Remove the pan from the heat and slowly add the powdered sugar a cup or so at a time.
12. Stir to combine thoroughly.
13. Grease an 8-9″ pan with vegetable shortening or line with parchment.
14. Transfer the fudge mixture to the pan and press into the pan.
15. Chill for at least 4 hours before cutting.
16. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Calories: 200kcal

Notes

Don’t overmix the fudge after adding the powdered sugar; this can lead to a grainy texture.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe

This Peanut Butter Fudge recipe is so simple and delicious. I know you’ll love it, because it is:

• Ready to eat in just four hours.
• Uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
• Perfect for a last-minute treat, or a quick homemade gift.

The History of Peanut Butter Fudge

Peanut butter fudge, a delightful variation of traditional fudge, emerged in the early 20th century. As peanut butter became more widely available and affordable, home cooks began experimenting with it in various recipes, including fudge.

This innovative twist quickly gained popularity, and it has remained a beloved confection ever since. The creamy, rich flavor of peanut butter combined with the sweet, smooth texture of fudge creates a unique and irresistible treat.

You can use this recipe for various parties or bring a dessert such as a Best Cheese Ball Recipe for Any Party to share!

Ingredients for the Best Peanut Butter Fudge

Here’s what you’ll need to make this amazing Peanut Butter Fudge recipe:

• 1 cup vegetable shortening
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 3½ cups powdered sugar

Ingredient Deep Dive

Let’s take a closer look at what each ingredient brings to the table. I recommend using creamy peanut butter for the smoothest texture; I tend to use a mainstream brand, but if you opt for natural peanut butter, be sure to stir it very well before measuring.

Some people like to avoid peanut butter that has hydrogenated oil in the ingredients, if that’s you, be sure to check the label! The vegetable shortening helps create a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. I always use pure vanilla extract, and don’t skimp. It really rounds out the flavor profile of this recipe.

If you are looking for other treats and drinks this is another category to check out!

Equipment You’ll Need

Here’s a quick rundown of the equipment you’ll need for this recipe:

• Required: 8×8 or 9×9 inch pan, mixing bowl, microwave (or medium-size saucepan).
• Nice to have: Parchment paper, for easy cleanup.

How to Make Peanut Butter Fudge: Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Peanut Butter Fudge:

1. Combine the peanut butter, vegetable shortening, and vanilla in a glass bowl and melt in the microwave for 90 seconds.
2. Stir to combine; it should come together very quickly and be smooth and creamy.
3. Slowly add the powdered sugar a cup or so at a time.
4. Stir to combine thoroughly.
5. Grease an 8-9″ pan with vegetable shortening or line with parchment.
6. Transfer the fudge mixture to the pan and press into the pan.
7. Chill for at least 4 hours before cutting.
8. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Or:

1. Combine the peanut butter, vegetable shortening, and vanilla in a medium-size saucepan over medium-low heat.
2. Stir to combine; it should come together very quickly and be smooth and creamy.
3. Remove the pan from the heat and slowly add the powdered sugar a cup or so at a time.
4. Stir to combine thoroughly.
5. Grease an 8-9″ pan with vegetable shortening or line with parchment.
6. Transfer the fudge mixture to the pan and press into the pan.
7. Chill for at least 4 hours before cutting.
8. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Fudge

Here are a few pro tips to help you achieve Peanut Butter Fudge perfection:

• Don’t overmix the fudge after adding the powdered sugar; this can lead to a grainy texture.
• Use room temperature peanut butter for easier mixing.
• Chill the fudge for the full 4 hours (or longer) to ensure it sets properly.
• If you want to make another easy treat, check out this Fresh Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting!

Troubleshooting: Common Peanut Butter Fudge Problems

Sometimes, things don’t go exactly as planned. Here’s how to troubleshoot common Peanut Butter Fudge issues:

• Why is my fudge too soft? This could be due to using too much shortening or not chilling it long enough. Make sure to measure accurately and allow ample chilling time.
• Why is my fudge too hard? Overmixing, or using too little shortening can lead to a too-hard fudge.
• Why is my fudge grainy? Graininess can result from overmixing after adding the powdered sugar or using peanut butter that is not smooth.
• Why is my fudge oily? This can happen if the peanut butter separates or if there’s too much shortening.

Variations and Substitutions

Want to mix things up? Here are a few ideas:

Storing and Serving Your Peanut Butter Fudge

To keep your Peanut Butter Fudge fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to two weeks. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. I like to cut it into fun shapes, or serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Peanut Butter Fudge Makes A Great Gift

Peanut Butter Fudge is a thoughtful homemade gift, especially around the holidays. I like to package fudge in small cellophane bags tied with a ribbon, or in decorative tins lined with parchment paper. A personalized tag adds a special touch.

Adjustments for High Altitude Baking

If you live at a high altitude, you may need to make a few adjustments to this recipe. Since liquids evaporate more quickly at higher altitudes, you might need to add a tablespoon or two of milk to the mixture to prevent it from becoming too dry.

Candy Thermometer vs. No Thermometer

This recipe does not require a candy thermometer, making it incredibly easy. However, some fudge recipes do benefit from using one. The goal is to reach the “soft-ball” stage, around 235-240°F (112-115°C), which ensures the fudge sets properly.

Nutrition Information

Here’s an estimate of the nutrition information per serving (approximate):

• Calories: 200
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 5mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Sugar: 20g
• Protein: 2g
• Disclaimer: This is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

According to UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County, looking at a nutrition fact label, you will find that peanut butter has 7 grams of protein, B Vitamins, fiber, Vitamin E, and potassium.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions I get about making Peanut Butter Fudge:

Conclusion

I hope you’ll try this Peanut Butter Fudge recipe. I know you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to make such a delicious treat. Now it’s your turn. I’d love to hear your feedback in the comments below!

For more recipes, follow us on Pinterest.