Easy peanut fudge is one of those homemade sweets that instantly brings comfort, nostalgia, and delight đ. Whether youâre preparing a quick dessert for guests, craving something soft and rich, or looking for a beginner-friendly recipe, this easy peanut fudge delivers every time. Its smooth texture, deep peanut flavor, and minimal ingredients make it a favorite for busy days and special occasions alike.
Creating this treat doesnât require fancy tools or advanced skills. With just a few steps and simple pantry staples, you can whip up a batch that tastes as if it came from a professional candy shop đŹ. Below, youâll learn everything you need to knowâfrom its background to a foolproof recipe and smart serving tips.
Table of Contents
What Is Easy Peanut Fudge?
Peanut fudge is a soft, melt-in-your-mouth candy made primarily from peanut butter, sugar, and milk or butter. Unlike traditional chocolate fudge, which often relies on precise temperature control, this peanut-based version is more forgiving and much simpler. Many home cooks appreciate it because the recipe doesnât require a candy thermometer or expert timing.
This dessert became popular in home kitchens thanks to its affordability and versatility. Peanut butter, a common ingredient in many households, transformed classic fudge into a new flavor experience that families quickly embraced. Today, easy peanut fudge appears during holidays, gatherings, and everyday dessert moments.
Why This Treat Has Become a Favorite
Peanut fudge stands out for several reasons:
Quick Preparation
Most versions take less than 10 minutes to prepare, plus a short cooling time. Itâs ideal when you need a fast dessert or edible gift đ.
Minimal Ingredients
You donât need a long grocery list. In fact, many recipes use just four to six ingredients, all commonly found in any kitchen.
Customizable Flavor
You can create a smoother or firmer texture depending on your preferences. Some people like adding nuts, chocolate swirls, or a sprinkle of sea salt to elevate the final result.
No Special Skills Required
Even beginners can make it successfully on the first try. The method is straightforward and doesnât involve complicated candy-making steps.
Ingredients
Hereâs a simple and reliable ingredient list for classic easy peanut fudge. All ingredients are free of pork and alcohol, making the recipe suitable for everyone.
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- A pinch of salt (optional, but enhances flavor)
Preparation Steps
1. Prepare the Pan
Line an 8Ă8-inch square pan with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging over the edges; this will make it easier to lift the fudge later.
2. Combine the Base Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and milk. Stir over medium heat until the mixture begins to boil gently. Once it reaches a soft boil, continue stirring for about 3 minutes to help the sugar dissolve completely.
3. Create the Fudge Mixture
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Immediately add the peanut butter, butter, salt, and vanilla. Stir quickly until everything melts together and forms a smooth mixture. The texture should be thick, creamy, and uniform.
4. Pour and Smooth
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth the topâthis helps give the fudge that clean, glossy finish seen in classic homemade versions.
5. Let It Set
Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Once firm, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut it into squares.
