chocolate peanut butter fudge

chocolate peanut butter fudge

Okay, friends, let me tell you about something truly magical.Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge recipe.If you could have a dessert that could hug you from the inside out, this would be it. I remember my grandma making something similar every Christmas, and the smell alone was enough to make it a Christmas tradition. What makes you practically bounce off the walls with excitement? This recipe isn’t quite hers (that’s locked away in a vault, I swear! What is the same comforting, rich flavor, and it’s about a million times easier to make. What is a throw It’s like a cross between Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup and , well, brownie, but without the chocolate. I swear, this is easier than making cookies from a box, and tastes infinitely better!

chocolate peanut butter fudge final dish beautifully presented and ready to serve

What is chocolate peanut butter fudge?

What is the shortcut to happiness?Chocolate Peanut Butter fudge recipe.What is the best of both worlds? Rich, decadent chocolate and salty, nutty peanut butter. Is this a super-simplified fudge recipe that doesn’t require an oven or candy thermometer? You’re basically melting and mixing a few key ingredients, layering them in the pan, and letting the ingredients melt. Does the fridge do its job? No fancy techniques, no complicated steps, just pure, unadulterated deliciousness. Who doesn’t love peanut butter and chocolate? Is it a classic?

Why I love this recipe?

What is brass tack?Chocolate Peanut Butter fudge.What is your new go-to recipe? What is the perfect balance of rich chocolate and peanuts? Is this a flavor explosion? If you melt chocolate and stir ingredients together, you can make this fudge. I’ve even had my kids help me with it, and they nailed it. What’s the best part? It is budget friendly. You probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry already. What I love most about this is that it feels like a super indulgent treat, but without the crazy crazy. Sometimes you just need a little something sweet, and this fudge hits the spot every single time. It’s also incredibly versatile. What’s your favorite way to serve caramel on top of a baked potato? I like this no-bake chocolate oatmeal bar. It’s similar in ease to my no bake chocolate almond bars.Chocolate peanut butter fudge – a uniqueIs there a richer, more decadent flavor that I crave sometimes?

How do you make chocolate peanut butter fudge?

Quick Overview

Making this Chocolate peanut butter Fudge.Is as simple as melt, mix, layer, chill. What is the recipe for melting chocolate with sweetened condensed milk? How do you make a creamy peanut butter layer? Swirl them together in a pan, let it chill in the fridge until firm, and boom! Fudgy perfection. What’s the best thing about this recipe? Days when you don’t want to turn on the oven. I’ve even made this while camping (with a little help from an insulated cooler, of course).

Ingredients

What is the chocolate layer?
* 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips (I prefer Ghirardelli, but any good quality Chocolate Chip). Avoid the super cheap ones (you’ll taste the difference)!
* 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk (Make sure it’s not sugar) What is evaporated milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Adds a lovely depth of flavor – don’t skip it!)
* Pinch of salt (Balances the sweetness beautifully)

What is the recipe for peanut butter layer?
* 1 cup creamy peanut butter (I like to use regular, not the natural kind, as it tends to stick to my skin). To be more stable.
* 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Pinch of salt

Optional Toppings
* Chopped peanuts (For added crunch and flavor)
* Sprinkles (Because sprinkles make everything better!
* Sea salt flakes (A sprinkle of sea salt on top elevates the flavor to a whole new level)
* Chocolate drizzle (For extra decadence)

chocolate peanut butter fudge ingredients organized and measured on kitchen counter

What are the steps for

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Line an 8×8 inch square pan with parchment paper. Make sure the parchment paper overhangs the sides – this will make it super easy to lift the fudge. Is this tip worth it? I always give the parchment a light spray with non-stick cooking spray, just to be extra safe. No one wants fudge stuck to the pan!

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Layer

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Set aside. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until chocolate is completely melted and smooth. If you overheat chocolate, it will become grainy. Once melted, stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. The salt really brings out the chocolate flavor.

Step 3: Melt the Peanut Butter Layer

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk. Set aside. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the peanut butter is melted and smooth. Once melted, stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. I’ve tried this with different brands of peanut butter, and I find that Jif or Skippy work best. Why are peanut butters so oily?

Step 4: Layer the Fudge

Do not overdo the chocolate layer. Pour into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Dollop spoonfuls of peanut butter over the chocolate layer. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the peanut butter into the chocolate. This creates an effect. Don’t over-swirl, or the layers will just blend together. You want to see those distinct swirls of chocolate and peanut butter!

Step 5: Add Toppings (Optional)

If you’re using any toppings, now’s the time to add them. Sprinkle chopped peanuts, sprinkles or sea salt flakes over the top of the fudge. Gently press the toppings into the fudge so they adhere properly.

Step 6: Chill

Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the fudge is firm. I usually let it chill overnight for the best results. What is the best way to set a fudge?

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Once the fudge is firm, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place it on a cutting board and slice it into squares. I like to use a large, sharp knife for this, and I often run it under hot water between slices. How do you prevent fudge from sticking?Chocolate peanut butter fudge. (StandIs it safe to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator?

What should I serve it with?

This Chocolate peanut butter fudge. is delicious all on its own, but here are a few ideas for serving it up:

For a Sweet Treat: Cut into small squares and enjoy as an after-dinner treat with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s the perfect ending to any meal!

As a Gift: Package the fudge in a cute little box or tin and give it as a gift to friends, family, or coworkers. It’s a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift that everyone will appreciate.

For Parties: Arrange the fudge on a platter alongside other desserts like cookies, brownies, and cupcakes. It’s a great addition to any dessert table and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

With Coffee: Enjoy a square of fudge with your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The rich, sweet flavor pairs perfectly with a hot beverage.

My family loves this fudge served right out of the fridge on a hot summer day. It’s so refreshing and satisfying! It’s also a staple at our holiday gatherings – everyone always asks for it!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge

Want to take your chocolate peanut butter fudge to the next level? Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years:

Use Good Quality Chocolate: As I mentioned earlier, the quality of the chocolate really matters. Opt for a good quality semi-sweet chocolate chip for the best flavor. I find that the cheaper chocolate chips tend to be a bit waxy and don’t melt as smoothly.

Don’t Overheat the Chocolate or Peanut Butter: Be careful not to overheat the chocolate or peanut butter when melting them in the microwave. This can cause them to seize up and become grainy. Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until just melted.

Use Creamy Peanut Butter: I recommend using regular creamy peanut butter, not the natural kind, for this recipe. The natural peanut butters tend to be more oily and can separate, resulting in a less stable fudge.

Don’t Over-Swirl: When swirling the peanut butter into the chocolate, be careful not to over-swirl. You want to see those distinct swirls of chocolate and peanut butter, not a blended mess.

Add a Pinch of Salt: A pinch of salt in both the chocolate and peanut butter layers helps to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.

Chill Completely: Make sure to chill the fudge completely before slicing. This will allow it to firm up properly and make it easier to cut into clean squares.

I once tried to make this fudge with white chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate, and it was way too sweet! I also tried using almond butter instead of peanut butter, and while it was still good, it just didn’t have that classic chocolate peanut butter fudge flavor that everyone loves.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Here’s how to properly store and reheat your chocolate peanut butter fudge:

Room Temperature: You can store the fudge at room temperature for a few hours, but it will become softer. I recommend keeping it in the refrigerator for the best texture.

Refrigerator Storage: Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It will stay firm and fresh.

Freezer Instructions: You can also freeze the fudge for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re adding a glaze, I recommend adding it just before serving. This will prevent the glaze from becoming sticky or melting during storage.

I’ve found that the fudge tastes best when it’s served cold or slightly chilled. If you’re taking it to a party, keep it in a cooler until serving time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! While I prefer semi-sweet chocolate for this recipe, you can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate. Just keep in mind that the sweetness level will vary depending on the type of chocolate you use. You might want to adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk accordingly.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
While you can use natural peanut butter, I don’t recommend it for this recipe. Natural peanut butters tend to be more oily and can separate, resulting in a less stable fudge. If you do use natural peanut butter, make sure to stir it well before measuring and consider adding a tablespoon of powdered sugar to help absorb some of the excess oil.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Definitely! This fudge is very versatile, and you can easily customize it with your favorite mix-ins. Chopped nuts (peanuts, walnuts, pecans), sprinkles, chocolate chips, pretzels, or even dried fruit would all be delicious additions. Just stir them into the chocolate or peanut butter layer before pouring it into the pan.
How do I prevent the fudge from sticking to the pan?
Lining the pan with parchment paper is the best way to prevent the fudge from sticking. Make sure the parchment paper overhangs the sides, so you can easily lift the fudge out of the pan. I also recommend giving the parchment a light spray with non-stick cooking spray, just to be extra safe.
How long does the fudge last?
This chocolate peanut butter fudge will keep in the refrigerator for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors.

Final Thoughts

chocolate peanut butter fudge slice on plate showing perfect texture and swirl pattern

So there you have it – my super easy, incredibly delicious chocolate peanut butter fudge recipe! I truly believe that anyone can make this, regardless of their baking skills. It’s the perfect treat for satisfying your sweet tooth, gifting to friends and family, or bringing to parties. And the best part is, it’s so easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins and toppings. If you love the classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter, you’re going to absolutely adore this fudge. Seriously, it’s like a little piece of heaven in every bite! If you’re looking for other easy dessert recipes, check out my no-bake cheesecake bars – they’re another family favorite. Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know what you think, and don’t forget to rate the recipe. And if you make any fun variations, I’d love to hear about them!

chocolate peanut butter fudge

Rich and decadent chocolate peanut butter fudge, easy to make with simple ingredients.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 16
Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 0.5 cup peanut butter
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 0.25 cup milk

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • Combine chocolate chips, peanut butter, powdered sugar, and milk in a saucepan.
  • Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until melted and smooth.
  • Pour into a greased 8x8 inch baking dish.
  • Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.

Notes

Store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Serving: 200gCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 120gProtein: 120gFat: 120gSaturated Fat: 120gPolyunsaturated Fat: 120gMonounsaturated Fat: 120gTrans Fat: 120gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 120gSugar: 120gVitamin A: 120IUVitamin C: 120mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 120mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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