Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge

Rich, creamy, chocolatey, and packed with irresistible peanut butter flavor, this homemade Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge is the perfect little treat when you’re craving something sweet. It comes together with simple ingredients and sets into smooth, melt-in-your-mouth squares that are hard to resist!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and chocolatey
• Creamy peanut butter flavor
• Easy no-fuss preparation
• Perfect for holidays and gifting
• No complicated candy-making techniques

Perfect For

This fudge is perfect for holiday treats, dessert trays, parties, homemade gifts, chocolate cravings, and family gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overheating the chocolate — Melt gently to keep it smooth.
2. Using natural peanut butter without stirring — Separate oils can affect the texture.
3. Cutting before it sets — Give the fudge plenty of time to firm up.
4. Skipping parchment paper — It makes removing the fudge much easier.

Required Equipment

• 8 × 8-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler
• Rubber spatula
• Sharp knife

Storage Instructions

Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

For longer storage, freeze tightly wrapped pieces for up to 3 months.

Let refrigerated fudge sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best texture.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 24 squares
Best Season: All-season
Total Calories (Per Serving): Approximately 170 calories

📝 Ingredients

• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Optional Toppings

• Chopped peanuts
• Mini chocolate chips
• Flaky sea salt
• Peanut butter drizzle

Directions

1. Prepare the pan.
   Line an 8 × 8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides.
2. Melt the chocolate.
   Add chocolate chips and peanut butter to a microwave-safe bowl.
3. Heat gently.
   Microwave in 20–30 second intervals, stirring well after each interval until completely smooth.
4. Add condensed milk.
   Stir in the sweetened condensed milk until the mixture becomes thick and creamy.
5. Add flavor.
   Stir in vanilla extract and salt.
6. Transfer to the pan.
   Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan.
7. Smooth the surface.
   Spread evenly using a rubber spatula.
8. Add toppings.
   Sprinkle with chopped peanuts or flaky sea salt if desired.
9. Chill.
   Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until completely firm.
10. Cut.
    Lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper and cut into small squares.
11. Serve.
    Serve chilled or allow the pieces to sit at room temperature for a few minutes.

Tips for Perfect Fudge

• Use good-quality chocolate for the smoothest flavor.
• Don’t overheat the chocolate.
• For extra peanut butter flavor, swirl 2 tablespoons of warmed peanut butter over the top before chilling.
• Chill overnight for especially clean slices.
• A warm, dry knife makes cutting easier.

Nutrition Facts

Per Square — Approximate

• Calories: ~170
• Fat: ~11 g
• Cholesterol: ~5 mg
• Sodium: ~80 mg
• Potassium: ~120 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: ~18 g
• Fiber: ~2 g
• Net Carbs: ~16 g
• Sugars: ~14 g
• Protein: ~4 g
• Calcium: ~30 mg

Nutrition values are approximate and depend on the chocolate, peanut butter, and condensed milk used.

Notes

• Extra peanut butter: Add another ¼ cup peanut butter for a stronger flavor.
• Crunchy: Use crunchy peanut butter or add chopped peanuts.
• Dark chocolate: Replace semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate.
• Salted: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top.
• Swirled: Add warm peanut butter and swirl with a toothpick before chilling.
• Storage: Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes! It adds a delicious nutty crunch.

2. Can I make this fudge without a microwave?
Yes. Melt the chocolate and peanut butter together in a heatproof bowl over a pot of gently simmering water.

3. Can I make this with dark chocolate?
Absolutely. Dark chocolate gives the fudge a richer, less-sweet flavor.

4. How long does the fudge take to set?
It usually takes about 2 hours in the refrigerator, although chilling overnight gives the firmest texture.

5. Can I freeze chocolate peanut butter fudge?
Yes. Wrap individual pieces tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.