Preparation Steps

• Cut parchment paper using the bottom of an 8x8 baking dish as a template to help smooth fudge and protect it while chilling.
• Measure enough parchment paper to hang over the pan edges to lift fudge out later.
• Pour 1 tablespoon water into the bottom of the 8x8 pan to keep parchment paper in place.
• Line the 8x8 pan with parchment paper.
• In a microwave-safe bowl, add butter and peanut butter; microwave for 60 seconds then stir well.
• Add vanilla extract and stir until fully incorporated.
• Gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time, stirring between additions until smooth with no lumps or white streaks.
• Pour the fudge mixture evenly into the prepared pan and smooth with a spatula.
• Place the pre-cut parchment paper on top of the fudge to smooth the surface, then refrigerate for 2 hours to chill.
• After chilling, remove top parchment, pre-score fudge into pieces without cutting through the pan.
• Use parchment overhang to lift fudge out onto a cutting board.
• Warm a sharp knife with hot water, dry it, and slice fudge into pieces using the pre-score lines.
• Decorate each piece with 2-3 red and green M&M's for a festive touch.
• Store fudge in an airtight container; keeps 3-4 days at room temperature or 1 week refrigerated.