This delicious peanut butter fudge recipe has become a staple in our home for Christmas and the holidays! Its smooth, creamy texture and rich peanut butter flavor make it a must-have treat for the season.
It's perfect for gifting or sharing with friends and family.
Why You'll Love This Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Making the Fudge
- Rich and Creamy Texture: Each bite of this peanut buttery fudge melts in your mouth and is perfect for the peanut butter lover in your life. Give this Old Fashioned Potato Candy for rich peanut butter flavor swirled in powdered sugar goodness.
- Great Holiday Treat: This fudge is the perfect treat for the holiday season and gift-giving and a huge hit at a Christmas party.
- Customizable: You can easily add your favorite toppings like chocolate chips and nuts, or fold in some peanut butter cups for a bigger peanut butter flavor with chocolate to this easy peanut butter fudge recipe.
Ingredients in Peanut Butter Fudge
This recipe for homemade fudge uses simple ingredients and is an easy fudge recipe.
- evaporated milk
- white sugar
- unsalted butter, room temperature
- vanilla extract
- creamy peanut butter
- light Karo corn syrup
- marshmallow fluff
See the recipe card for the full ingredients and full instructions.
How to Make Homemade Peanut Butter Fudge on the Stovetop
- Line a 7x11 baking dish with aluminum foil, parchment paper or butter the bottom and sides of the dish.
- Combine ¼ cup of butter, evaporated milk, and 4 cups of sugar in a large pot.
- Heat on low until the butter is melted. Do not boil.
- In a separate large bowl, combine two tablespoons of vanilla extract, two tablespoons of light Karo syrup, the remaining ¼ cup of softened butter, 16 ounces of peanut butter, and the jar of marshmallow fluff.
- Mix to combine and set aside.
- Slowly increase heat to medium-low heat until boiling. Once boiling, reduce the heat, but maintain a rolling boil.
- Stir continuously for 10-15 minutes until the temperature has reached 235ºF - 240ºF or by performing the cold water test by placing a drip of the hot mixture into a bowl of cool water will cause the drip to form a ball. This is called the soft ball stage. Be careful not to overcook the mixture.
- Remove from heat immediately and stir the peanut butter mixture into the pot, stirring until combined.
- Pour hot peanut butter fudge into the prepared dish and smooth the top.
- Let cool before refrigerating. Cover with plastic wrap and let fudge firm in the fridge for at least 4 hours.
- Cut into 1-inch squares and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or be frozen for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
How to Reach the Softball Stage for Fudge
- Heat the Mixture: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Use a Candy Thermometer: Heat until the mixture reaches 235°F to 240°F (113°C to 116°C) using a candy thermometer.
- Cold Water Test: Drop a bit of the mixture into cold water. If it forms a soft ball when it hits the water, it is ready.
Quick Tips
- Use a Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan: This helps distribute heat evenly and prevents burning.
- Stir Constantly: Keep stirring the mixture to avoid sticking, ensure smooth consistency, and prevent sugar crystals from forming on the side of the pot.
- Monitor Temperature: Use a candy thermometer to reach the right temperature, typically around 234°F (112°C). (Also known as the softball stage)
- Low to Medium Heat: Cook over low to medium heat to control the cooking process and avoid scorching once reaching the initial boil.
- Cool Completely: Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature before chilling in the refrigerator for creamy results.
Other Holiday Favorites
This creamy peanut butter fudge is a great addition to Christmas cookie trays and cookie tins. These Christmas cookie classics are a great option to create a beautiful and delicious gift during the Christmas season.
📖 Recipe
Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
This delicious peanut butter fudge recipe has become a staple in our home for Christmas and the holidays! Its smooth, creamy texture and rich peanut butter flavor make it a must-have treat for the season. It's perfect for gifting or sharing with friends and family. It's also a delicious fudge to add to cookie trays!
Ingredients
- 12 ounce can evaporated milk
- 4 cups white sugar
- ½ cup softened butter - divided
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
- 16 ounces creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons light Karo syrup
- 7 ounces marshmallow fluff
Instructions
- Line a 7x11 baking dish with aluminum foil, parchment paper or butter the bottom and sides of the dish.
- Combine ¼ cup of butter, evaporated milk, and 4 cups of sugar in a large pot.
- Heat on low until the butter is melted. Do not boil.
- In a separate large bowl, combine two tablespoons of vanilla extract, two tablespoons of light Karo syrup, the remaining ¼ cup of softened butter, 16 ounces of peanut butter, and the jar of marshmallow fluff.
- Mix to combine and set aside.
- Slowly increase heat to medium-low heat until boiling. Once boiling, reduce the heat, but maintain a rolling boil.
- Stir continuously for 10-15 minutes until the temperature has reached 235ºF - 240ºF or by performing the cold water test by placing a drip of the hot mixture into a bowl of cool water will cause the drip to form a ball. This is called the soft ball stage. Be careful not to overcook the mixture.
- Remove from heat immediately and stir the peanut butter mixture into the pot, stirring until combined.
- Pour hot peanut butter fudge into the prepared dish and smooth the top.
- Let cool before refrigerating. Cover with plastic wrap and let fudge firm in the fridge for at least 4 hours.
- Cut into 1-inch squares and serve.
Notes
Peanut butter fudge can last in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or be frozen for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
Nutrition
Serving: 1piece | Calories: 132kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 6mg | Sodium: 58mg | Sugar: 17g
Nutritional information is an estimate based on third-party calculations. Actual values may vary due to ingredients, measurements, and serving sizes.
© Mama Needs Cake
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Dana is an experienced recipe creator who crafts easy and delicious recipes for all levels of home cooks.
Her recipes range from classic comfort foods to healthy and nutritious meals, and she is always on the lookout for new and exciting ways to bring flavor and variety to the table.
Elizabeth Voyles says
This looks delicious! I’m ready to rush out and buy the ingredients right now, LOL. Peanut butter is always a hit in my family. This would be a real treat for us!
Marisol says
I love me some peanut butter anything. Going to try this! Thanks
Rachel says
This looks so good and easy. Maybe I will be the one who brings the treat to my in-laws house this time.
Tasheena @ SimplyTasheena.com says
This looks so yummy! This is the perfect recipe to add to my holiday party list. Can't wait to give it a try!
Dana says
Hi Meghan, It is condensed milk! I have updated the recipe card to reflect the correct changes.
Laurie says
This is the creamiest fudge ever! Delicious, thanks for the recipe.
Dana says
It is our go-to! I'm so happy you enjoy it!