Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge

BY :

Noelia

Posted On :

September 17, 2025

Indulge in the creamy, dreamy goodness of this Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge! This recipe isn’t just about making fudge; it’s about crafting a nostalgic treat that evokes memories of simpler times and satisfies the sweetest cravings. Imagine the rich, nutty aroma filling your kitchen as the peanut butter melts into a luscious, velvety mixture. Picture yourself sinking your teeth into a perfectly chilled square, the smooth texture melting in your mouth, leaving a delightful lingering taste of peanut butter and sweetness. This isn’t your average store-bought fudge; this is a homemade masterpiece, made with love and simple ingredients, a perfect dessert for any occasion, or simply a delightful treat for yourself.

This recipe is a celebration of classic flavors, a testament to the simplicity of creating something truly delicious. We’re taking you back to the basics, to a time when desserts were made with heart and simple ingredients, producing an irresistible result. Forget complicated techniques and obscure ingredients; this Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge is all about bringing together a few pantry staples to create an unforgettable culinary experience. Get ready to impress your family and friends (or just treat yourself!) with this irresistibly delicious fudge.

Why You’ll Love This Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe

This Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge recipe is a winner for a multitude of reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make! Even if you’re a baking novice, you’ll find this recipe surprisingly straightforward. The steps are minimal, the ingredients are readily available, and the entire process is quick and efficient. This means you can enjoy a delicious treat without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous dessert cravings!

Secondly, the flavor profile is simply irresistible. The combination of creamy peanut butter, luscious sweetened condensed milk, and a hint of vanilla creates a flavor symphony that’s hard to resist. The sweetness is perfectly balanced, avoiding any cloying aftertaste. It’s the perfect blend of rich, nutty, and sweet, creating a truly satisfying dessert experience. It’s a taste that will transport you back to childhood memories of simpler times and simpler pleasures.

Thirdly, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily customize this recipe to your liking. Want to add a touch of chocolate? Feel free to add some semi-sweet chocolate chips. Prefer a different nut butter? Almond butter or cashew butter could be delicious substitutions. The possibilities are endless! This allows you to personalize your fudge, making it your own signature dessert.

Finally, this recipe offers incredible value. The ingredients are inexpensive and readily available, making it a budget-friendly option. You’ll get a generous yield from this recipe, providing plenty of delicious fudge to share (or hoard!). The cost-effectiveness combined with the deliciousness makes this recipe an absolute steal.

Why You Should Try This Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe

Beyond the ease and deliciousness, there are several compelling reasons to try this particular Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge recipe. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with a homemade treat that tastes better than anything store-bought. It’s the kind of dessert that will spark conversations and leave a lasting impression.

This recipe also makes a wonderful homemade gift. Imagine the delight on someone’s face when they receive a box of your homemade peanut butter fudge! It’s a thoughtful and delicious gift that shows you care. You can even get creative with packaging, adding a personal touch that makes it even more special.

Moreover, it’s a perfect recipe to make with family or friends. Baking together is a fun and bonding experience, and this recipe is simple enough for all skill levels to participate. It’s a chance to create lasting memories in the kitchen while enjoying the delicious rewards of your collaborative efforts. You can even turn it into a fun family activity, making it a cherished tradition.

Finally, it’s a fantastic way to satisfy your sweet tooth without feeling guilty. While it’s certainly indulgent, it’s made with ingredients you can recognize and understand, allowing for a more mindful approach to dessert. It’s the perfect balance of indulgence and satisfaction – guilt-free deliciousness!

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge

This section details the ingredients and equipment needed to successfully make this Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge. Using the correct ingredients and tools will ensure the best possible results.

Ingredients:

1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk: This provides the creamy base and sweetness for the fudge. Look for a brand you trust for optimal quality. Secondary Keyword: Sweetened Condensed Milk Fudge
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: The star ingredient! Choose your favorite brand – creamy is essential for the smooth texture. Secondary Keyword: Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
1/4 cup butter: Unsalted butter is preferred to control the sweetness. Secondary Keyword: Butter Fudge
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor and adds a touch of warmth. Pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best taste. Secondary Keyword: Vanilla Fudge
2 cups powdered sugar: This is what gives the fudge its structure. Use a fine powdered sugar for the smoothest consistency. Secondary Keyword: Powdered Sugar Fudge
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional): Adds a delightful chocolatey twist to the classic peanut butter flavor. Use your preferred brand. Secondary Keyword: Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge

Necessary Utensils:

Medium saucepan: A non-stick saucepan is ideal for easy cleanup. Ensure it’s large enough to comfortably accommodate all the ingredients.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the mixture constantly while it cooks. A heat-resistant silicone spatula is also a great option.
8×8 inch baking dish: This size is perfect for this recipe. You can adjust the quantity of ingredients if you wish to use a different-sized dish.
Parchment paper: Essential for easy removal of the fudge from the baking dish. Cut a piece slightly larger than the dish to allow for overhang.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurately measuring the ingredients. Using accurate measurements is crucial for achieving the right consistency.
Rubber spatula or offset spatula: For spreading the fudge evenly in the baking dish.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge

Follow these steps carefully to create your perfect batch of Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge.

Combine Ingredients: In your medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, peanut butter, and butter. **Stir constantly** with your wooden spoon or spatula. This is crucial to prevent burning and ensure that the ingredients melt evenly. The mixture will start to thicken as it heats up. Continue stirring until the butter is completely melted and the mixture is perfectly smooth and creamy. **Remove from heat immediately** once melted and smooth. This prevents the mixture from scorching.
Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract. **Mix thoroughly** to incorporate the vanilla evenly throughout the mixture. The vanilla adds a subtle yet essential depth of flavor.
Incorporate Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, stirring constantly. **This step requires some elbow grease!** The mixture will become quite thick as you add the powdered sugar. Make sure you stir vigorously to prevent any lumps from forming. It’s essential to incorporate the powdered sugar completely to achieve the desired consistency. Continue stirring until a smooth, thick, and slightly stiff mixture forms.
Add Chocolate Chips (Optional): If using chocolate chips, stir them in now. **Continue stirring until they are completely melted and evenly distributed** throughout the fudge. The heat from the fudge will melt the chocolate chips, creating a beautiful swirl of chocolate within the peanut butter base.
Pour and Set: Line your 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring there’s an overhang on all sides. This will make it easier to remove the fudge once it’s set. Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared dish and use your rubber spatula or offset spatula to spread it evenly, creating a smooth, level surface.
Chill: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, or until it’s completely firm. **The longer it chills, the firmer and easier it will be to cut.** Patience is key here!
Cut and Serve: Once the fudge is firm, lift it out of the baking dish using the parchment paper overhang. Cut it into squares using a sharp knife. **Wipe the knife clean between cuts** for neat, clean squares. Serve and enjoy your delicious Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge!

Tips and Variations for Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge

Experiment with these tips and variations to personalize your Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge:

Different Nut Butters: Try substituting almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter for a unique flavor profile. Keep in mind that the consistency might vary slightly.
Add-ins: Get creative with add-ins! Consider chopped nuts (peanuts, pecans, walnuts), pretzels, dried cranberries, or even sprinkles for added texture and flavor.
Chocolate Variations: Instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips, use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even chocolate chunks for a different chocolate experience.
Sea Salt Topping: A sprinkle of sea salt on top of the fudge before chilling enhances the sweetness and adds a sophisticated touch.
Avoid Burning: Maintain a low to medium-low heat while melting the ingredients to prevent burning. Constant stirring is essential.
Lump Prevention: Gradually add the powdered sugar and stir vigorously to prevent lumps. Using a fine powdered sugar can also help.
Proper Chilling: Ensure the fudge is completely chilled before cutting to prevent it from crumbling.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge

While this Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge is undeniably a treat, let’s take a look at its nutritional aspects. Please note that these values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Approximate Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 16 squares):

Calories: Approximately 200-250
Protein: Approximately 3-4 grams
Fat: Approximately 12-15 grams
Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30 grams

Benefits of Ingredients:

Peanut Butter: A good source of protein and healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can be beneficial for heart health. It also contains various vitamins and minerals.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Provides a concentrated source of energy, but it’s high in sugar, so moderation is key.
Butter: Contains fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamin A and vitamin E.
Vanilla Extract: Offers antioxidants and may have some mood-boosting properties.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nut butter in this Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter. However, the taste and texture might differ slightly from the classic peanut butter version.

How long does Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge should last for about a week. It’s best consumed within that timeframe for optimal flavor and texture.

Can I make this Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version, you’ll need to substitute the butter with vegan butter and ensure your peanut butter doesn’t contain any honey or other non-vegan ingredients. Many vegan sweetened condensed milk alternatives are also available.

What’s the best way to store Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge?

Store your Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from other foods.

Is this Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free brand of peanut butter and ensure that all other ingredients (including the vanilla extract) are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge recipe is a delightful journey back to simpler times, a testament to how incredibly delicious a simple dessert can be. The ease of preparation, the incredible flavor, and the endless possibilities for customization make this recipe a true winner. It’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, impressing your guests, or creating a cherished family tradition. So, gather your ingredients, dust off your mixing spoons, and prepare to experience the rich, creamy, and undeniably addictive magic of homemade Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge!

We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience in the comments below! Don’t forget to share your photos on Pinterest using the hashtag #OldFashionedPeanutButterFudge! Check out more delicious recipes on our blog: Noeliarecipes.com. For a truly authentic Spanish experience, why not try our Berenjenas con Miel? Or perhaps you’d prefer something savory, like our delicious empanadas? Happy baking!

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