This microwave peanut butter fudge is the ultimate quick and easy candy recipe. It’s creamy, rich, and full of nutty flavor and the best part? It only takes a few minutes to prepare, with no stovetop or candy thermometer required. Perfect for holiday trays, homemade gifts, or whenever you want a simple sweet treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To whip up this easy fudge, gather:
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1 cup unsalted butter
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1½ cups creamy peanut butter
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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3¼ cups powdered sugar
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1 tablespoon water (to help hold parchment paper in place)
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Optional: red and green M&M’s, for a festive topping
Pro Tip: Stick with smooth, commercial peanut butter. Natural peanut butter tends to separate and won’t give you that silky, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Variations & Substitutions
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Peanut Butter: Jif, Skippy, Peter Pan, or Reese’s all work. Each brand gives slightly different color and sweetness, but the texture stays the same.
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Vanilla Extract: Out of vanilla? Use maple syrup for a subtle twist.
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Powdered Sugar: Also called icing sugar or confectioner’s sugar. If you don’t have any, you can substitute granulated sugar, but your fudge may turn out slightly grainier.
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Holiday cookie exchanges
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Homemade gift boxes with other candies
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Afternoon snacks with a cup of coffee or tea
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Adding to dessert platters alongside chocolate fudge or rocky roadToppings: M&M’s make it fun and festive, but chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, or mini marshmallows are also delicious
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Step-By-Step Instructions
STEP ONE: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Leave an overhang on two sides so you can lift the fudge out later. Add 1 tablespoon of water under the parchment to help it stick.
STEP TWO: In a large microwave-safe bowl, add butter and peanut butter. Heat for 1 minute, then stir until smooth. Microwave for another 30 seconds if needed.
STEP THREE: Stir in vanilla extract.
STEP FOUR: Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, stirring well after each addition. The mixture will thicken as you go.
STEP FIVE: Spread the fudge evenly into the prepared pan.
STEP SIX: Place another piece of parchment paper on top and press gently to smooth the surface. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
STEP SEVEN: Remove from the fridge, take off the top parchment, and use the overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan.
STEP EIGHT: Warm a sharp knife under hot water, dry it, and cut into small squares. Add M&M’s on top for a colorful holiday touch, if desired.
Serving Idea
This peanut butter fudge is perfect for:
Storage Ti
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