Creamy Peanut Butter Butter Fudge Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and a love for luscious, melt-in-your-mouth treats, then you are going to adore this Creamy Peanut Butter Butter Fudge Recipe. It combines the rich, velvety goodness of butter fudge with the irresistible nutty flavor of peanut butter, creating a dessert that’s smooth, perfectly sweet, and comforting. Each bite feels like a cozy hug, with just the right balance of creamy texture and classic nostalgia. Whether you’re making it for a holiday treat or just because you deserve something special, this fudge recipe is bound to become a beloved staple in your sweet arsenal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Creamy Peanut Butter Butter Fudge Recipe lies in how straightforward and simple the ingredients are, yet each one plays a crucial role in building that creamy, indulgent texture and flavor you crave. From the buttery base to the peanut butter’s nutty richness and the fluffy fluff of marshmallow creme, every component comes together to create magic.

• 7 tablespoons butter: I recommend salted butter to add a hint of savory balance against the sweetness.
• 2 and 1/4 cups granulated sugar: This provides just the right level of sweetness and helps with that classic fudge firmness.
• 2/3 cup evaporated milk: It thickens the mixture and lends a smooth creaminess without making it runny.
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors, especially bringing out the peanut butter’s richness.
• 1 and 2/3 cups peanut butter (15 ounces): Use a creamy version for the smoothest texture—this is where the magic really shines!
• 1 (7-ounce) tub marshmallow creme: This adds fluffy sweetness and a luscious texture that makes the fudge irresistibly soft.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla: Just a splash to deepen the flavor and give it a warm, inviting aroma.

How to Make Creamy Peanut Butter Butter Fudge Recipe

Step 1: Melt the Butter and Combine Sugars

Begin by placing the butter, granulated sugar, and evaporated milk in a heavy saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves completely. This slow, careful melting is key to creating that silky texture you want in your fudge.

Step 2: Boil to Soft Ball Stage

Once the mixture starts boiling, continue to cook it while stirring gently, until it reaches the soft ball stage on a candy thermometer—that’s between 234°F and 240°F. Don’t rush this step; it ensures your fudge sets with the perfect softness.

Step 3: Add Salt, Peanut Butter, and Marshmallow Creme

Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the kosher salt, creamy peanut butter, and marshmallow creme. Stir vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy. These ingredients give the fudge its signature creamy, peanut buttery flavor and that rich, airy texture.

Step 4: Mix in Vanilla and Cool

Add the teaspoon of vanilla extract and give it one final stir. Pour the fudge mixture into a buttered 8×8-inch pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Let it cool at room temperature for several hours or overnight until fully set. Patience here will reward you with fudge that slices beautifully and melts in your mouth.

How to Serve Creamy Peanut Butter Butter Fudge Recipe

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of chopped roasted peanuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate makes an elegant garnish that adds extra texture and flavor contrast. You can also dust the fudge lightly with flaky sea salt to enhance the sweet and salty flavor dance.

Side Dishes

This fudge pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or a rich hot chocolate. Serving a few pieces alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or apple slices adds a fresh element to balance its richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a bit of flair, cut the fudge into small bite-sized squares and arrange them in a decorative tin or a glass jar layered with parchment paper. Wrapping each piece individually in wax paper makes for a charming homemade gift. You can even sandwich pieces between cookies for an indulgent peanut butter fudge sandwich treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Keeping it sealed ensures the fudge stays moist and prevents it from drying out.

Freezing

If you want to keep your fudge longer, it freezes beautifully. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Reheating

While fudge is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, if it’s too hard, let it sit at room temperature for 15 to 30 minutes to soften naturally. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture, making it grainy or oily.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy?

Natural peanut butter tends to be less smooth and more oily, which can affect the texture of your fudge. For the creamiest result, creamy peanut butter is best, but you can try natural if you don’t mind a slightly denser fudge.

Do I have to use marshmallow creme?

Marshmallow creme contributes to that soft, fluffy texture that sets this fudge apart. Without it, your fudge will be denser and less airy, so it’s highly recommended to include it for the classic Creamy Peanut Butter Butter Fudge Recipe texture.

Why is my fudge grainy?

Grainy fudge usually means the sugar wasn’t fully dissolved or the mixture wasn’t stirred enough at the right time. Make sure to cook to the correct temperature and stir thoroughly when adding peanut butter and marshmallow creme to get a smooth finish.

Can I substitute margarine for butter?

Butter is key for flavor and texture in this fudge. Margarine often has higher water content and can affect both, so it’s best to stick with real butter for the authentic creamy texture.

How long does it take for the fudge to set?

Typically, the fudge will set after about 4 hours at room temperature. For best results, cool it overnight to ensure it’s firm enough to cut into perfect squares.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about making and sharing the Creamy Peanut Butter Butter Fudge Recipe. It’s a delightful combination of familiar comforts and indulgent flavors that always seem to bring smiles. Whether you’re a fudge fanatic or trying it for the first time, this recipe is easy to master and impossible to resist. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite sweet treat to enjoy and share with everyone you love.

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