Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 25 pieces
Difficulty Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup chopped roasted peanuts (optional)
- Flaky sea salt for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Heatproof spatula
- Mixing spoon
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra paper hanging over the sides for easy removal later. Lightly grease the parchment if desired.
Step 2: Heat the Ingredients
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, and peanut butter. Stir continuously until the butter melts completely and the mixture becomes smooth.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
Add the chocolate chips to the warm peanut butter mixture. Stir constantly until the chocolate has completely melted and the mixture is silky smooth with no lumps remaining.
Step 4: Add Flavor
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt until fully combined. If using chopped peanuts, gently fold them into the mixture.
Step 5: Pour into the Pan
Transfer the fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly into all corners.
Step 6: Garnish
Sprinkle flaky sea salt or additional chopped peanuts over the top if desired.
Step 7: Chill
Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours or until fully firm.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Lift the fudge out using the parchment paper. Place it on a cutting board and slice into 25 equal squares using a sharp knife.
Serve immediately or store for later.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for the richest flavor.
- Stir constantly while heating to prevent scorching.
- Do not overheat the chocolate, as it may become grainy.
- Chill the fudge completely before cutting for clean slices.
- Warm your knife under hot water and wipe it dry between cuts for professional-looking squares.
Recipe Variations
- Use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a richer taste.
- Add mini marshmallows for extra texture.
- Swirl melted white chocolate on top for a decorative finish.
- Mix in crushed pretzels for a sweet-and-salty combination.
- Add chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans for additional crunch.
Storage Instructions
Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
For longer storage, freeze individual pieces in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge pairs wonderfully with:
- Hot coffee
- Espresso
- Cold milk
- Hot chocolate
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh strawberries
It also makes an excellent edible gift when wrapped in decorative boxes or festive tins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why didn’t my fudge set?
Usually, the mixture wasn’t chilled long enough or the ingredient measurements were inaccurate.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Natural peanut butter can separate during cooking, so regular creamy peanut butter gives more consistent results.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. This fudge can be prepared several days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until needed.
Can I freeze Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge?
Absolutely. Freeze it in an airtight container for up to three months.
Can I use milk chocolate?
Yes. Milk chocolate creates a sweeter, creamier fudge, while dark chocolate gives a deeper cocoa flavor.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180
- Total Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 8mg
- Sodium: 70mg
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Sugar: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g