This remarkably simple recipe for Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Fudge yields a thick, rich, and intensely flavorful treat that melts in your mouth. It’s not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly easy to prepare, making it an ideal candidate for thoughtful homemade gifts or a delightful addition to any dessert spread.

Irresistible Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Fudge: Your New Go-To Recipe

Few flavor combinations capture hearts and taste buds quite like peanut butter and chocolate. This classic pairing takes center stage in our decadent Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Fudge, offering a symphony of creamy, sweet, and slightly salty notes with every bite. If you’re looking to create an unforgettable homemade candy that’s both impressive and incredibly easy, you’ve found your perfect recipe. Whether you’re preparing festive treats for friends and family during the holidays, or simply craving a rich dessert to satisfy a sweet tooth, this fudge delivers a delightful crunch and an unparalleled richness that will have everyone asking for more.

Why This Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe is a Must-Try

What makes this particular Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Fudge stand out? It’s the perfect marriage of simplicity and gourmet taste. Unlike many fudge recipes that require precise temperature monitoring with a candy thermometer, this method simplifies the process, making it accessible even for novice confectioners. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can transform basic pantry staples into a luxurious dessert. The result is a smooth, firm, yet yielding fudge with the delightful surprise of chocolate chips scattered throughout, adding both visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor and texture. This fudge isn’t just a treat; it’s an experience, a delightful journey into the heart of comfort food, ideal for sharing joy on special occasions or elevating an ordinary evening.

Tips for Crafting Perfect Peanut Butter Fudge Every Time

Achieving fudge perfection is easier than you think with a few simple guidelines. These tips will help you customize your Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Fudge and ensure it turns out beautifully, whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned fudge maker:

• Choosing Your Peanut Butter: While our recipe calls for crunchy peanut butter for that extra texture, feel free to use creamy peanut butter for a silkier, uniformly smooth fudge. Both options yield fantastic results, so pick your preference or even try a mix!
• Chocolate Chip Varieties: The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. You can omit the chocolate chips entirely if you prefer pure peanut butter bliss. For a different touch, try mini chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or even chopped dark chocolate for a more sophisticated flavor profile.
• Sweet and Salty Enhancements: For those who love a contrasting flavor, a sprinkle of salted chopped peanuts on top after spreading the fudge can elevate this treat to another level. The combination of sweet fudge with savory crunch is absolutely divine. A light dusting of sea salt flakes can also achieve a similar effect.
• Preparation is Key: Always line your baking pan with parchment paper or non-stick aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on the sides. This simple step makes lifting the set fudge out of the pan incredibly easy, allowing for clean cuts and presentation. An 8×8-inch pan works perfectly for the specified thickness.
• The Importance of the Boil: When combining butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream, bring the mixture to a rolling boil and maintain it for a moment before removing it from the heat. This step is crucial for dissolving the sugar crystals and ensuring the fudge sets properly with a smooth texture. Don’t over-boil, but ensure it reaches a true boil.
• Thorough Mixing: Once you add the peanut butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar, stir vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth and homogeneous. The fudge will become very thick, so a sturdy spoon or spatula is recommended. Any lumps will affect the final texture.
• Patient Cooling for Best Results: The cooling time in the refrigerator (3-4 hours) is essential for the fudge to fully set. Rushing this step can lead to a soft or crumbly texture. For perfectly clean cuts, chill the fudge until firm.
• Storage Savvy: Store your homemade Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If you want to extend its freshness, refrigerate it for 3-4 weeks. For longer storage, this fudge freezes beautifully for up to 3 months when stored in a freezer-safe, airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.
• Perfect for Gifting: This rich fudge is a fantastic edible gift. Once cut into squares, arrange pieces in decorative boxes, bags, or tins. It’s a thoughtful and delicious present for holidays, birthdays, or as a simple token of appreciation.

Essential Ingredients for Your Fudge

Gathering your ingredients before you begin is a smart way to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need to create this amazing Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Fudge:

• Salted Butter: The base of our fudge, butter provides richness and helps create that smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Using salted butter subtly enhances the overall flavor balance.
• Light Brown Sugar: This isn’t just for sweetness; brown sugar adds a deep, molasses-like flavor and contributes to the fudge’s moist, chewy consistency.
• Heavy Cream: Essential for the luxurious creaminess of the fudge. It helps create a silky-smooth texture that’s truly irresistible.
• Crunchy Peanut Butter: The star of the show! Crunchy peanut butter brings robust flavor and delightful texture, with those little peanut pieces adding an enjoyable bite.
• Vanilla Extract: A crucial flavor enhancer, vanilla extract rounds out the sweetness and deepens the overall aroma of the fudge.
• Powdered Sugar (Confectioners’ Sugar): This fine sugar is key to achieving the classic smooth, velvety texture of fudge. It dissolves easily and prevents a grainy mouthfeel.
• Chocolate Chips: Our irresistible addition! Semisweet chocolate chips provide the perfect counterpoint to the peanut butter, creating that beloved flavor combination.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Fudge

Creating this rich and creamy fudge is a straightforward process. Follow these detailed steps to achieve perfect results every time:

1. Prepare Your Pan: Begin by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or nonstick aluminum foil. Ensure there’s enough overhang on the sides to easily lift the fudge out once it’s set. This simple step will save you a lot of effort later.
2. Melt the Butter: In a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the ½ cup of salted butter over medium heat. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
3. Combine and Boil: Once the butter is melted, stir in the 2 ½ cups of light brown sugar and ½ cup of heavy cream. Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a full, rolling boil. Let it boil for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. Then, immediately remove the saucepan from the heat.
4. Add Peanut Butter and Vanilla: Into the hot sugar mixture, stir in the ¾ cup of crunchy peanut butter and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the peanut butter is completely melted and smoothly incorporated into the mixture.
5. Incorporate Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the 3 ¼ cups of powdered sugar to the mixture. Stir continuously until the powdered sugar is fully incorporated and the fudge mixture is smooth and very thick. This requires a bit of arm strength!
6. Spread into Pan: Quickly and evenly spread the thick fudge mixture into your prepared 8×8-inch baking pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure an even layer.
7. Add Chocolate Chips: Immediately sprinkle the 1 cup of chocolate chips evenly over the top of the warm fudge. The residual heat will slightly soften the chips, allowing them to adhere beautifully.
8. Chill and Set: Place the pan into the refrigerator and chill for at least 3-4 hours, or until the fudge is completely firm and set. This is crucial for achieving that perfect sliceable texture.
9. Cut and Serve: Once the fudge is fully set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place it on a cutting board and cut it into desired bar or square sizes. Serve and enjoy this delightful homemade treat!

Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Peanut Butter Fudge

We’ve compiled answers to some common questions you might have about making this delightful fudge:

• Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
  While natural peanut butter can be used, its oil content and consistency can vary greatly. For best results and a consistent texture, we recommend using a processed peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy). If you do opt for natural, be sure it’s well-stirred and try to use a brand with minimal oil separation. The fudge might have a slightly different texture.
• How do I know if my fudge is set properly?
  Properly set fudge will be firm to the touch and hold its shape when you try to lift it from the pan. It shouldn’t feel sticky or gooey. If it’s too soft, it might need more chilling time, or perhaps a bit more powdered sugar was needed during mixing to achieve the right consistency.
• My fudge turned out crumbly, what went wrong?
  Crumbly fudge is often a sign that it was overcooked (boiled for too long) or that too much powdered sugar was added. Ensure you only boil the initial butter, sugar, and cream mixture for about a minute. Precise measurements are key, especially for the powdered sugar.
• Can I double this recipe?
  Yes, this recipe can generally be doubled. If doubling, consider using a larger saucepan to accommodate the increased volume and a 9×13-inch baking pan. Be mindful that boiling and cooling times might be slightly affected, so keep an eye on the consistency during cooking and allow ample chilling time.
• What if I don’t have parchment paper?
  If you don’t have parchment paper, heavy-duty aluminum foil works well. Be sure to lightly grease the foil, especially if it’s not non-stick, to prevent the fudge from sticking. The goal is easy removal.

Craving More Delicious Fudge Recipes?

If you’ve fallen in love with making homemade fudge, there’s a whole world of flavors to explore. Be sure to try these other fantastic fudge recipes:

• Grandma’s No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars (Another peanut butter favorite!)
• Candied Pecan Fudge
• Christmas Cake Batter Fudge
• White Chocolate Cranberry Pistachio Fudge
• Homemade Rocky Road Fudge
• Cookie Monster Fudge
• Easy Candy Cane Peppermint Fudge
• Strawberry Fudge

Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe Card

This recipe for Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter fudge creates a thick and rich fudge that is so simple to make. Perfect for gift-giving!

Prep Time:

5 minutes

Cook Time:

10 minutes

Cooling Time:

3-4 hours

Total Time:

3 hours 15 minutes

Servings:

24

Author:

Brandie Skibinski

Course:

Candy, Dessert

Cuisine:

American

Ingredients

• ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter
• 2 ½ cups light brown sugar
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup crunchy peanut butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 ¼ cups powdered sugar
• 1 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or nonstick aluminum foil.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter. Then stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream.
3. Allow the mixture to boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat. Stir in the crunchy peanut butter and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Mix in the powdered sugar. Stir until thoroughly combined (mixture will be very thick.)
5. Spread fudge mixture evenly into prepared pan. Sprinkle the chocolate chips on top.
6. Quickly place pan into the refrigerator until the fudge completely sets (about 3-4 hours).
7. Cut into bars and serve!

Notes

• You can use creamy peanut butter instead of crunchy for a smoother texture.
• Feel free to leave off the chocolate chips or use mini chocolate chips. For a sweet and salty treat, try sprinkling with salted chopped peanuts!
• Store fudge in an airtight container, at room temperature, for about 2 weeks. In the fridge, it keeps for 3-4 weeks. Fudge can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Information (Estimated)

Calories: 287kcal | Carbohydrates: 46g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 11g | Sodium: 87mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 44g

Nutritional Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate. As a recipe resource, we are not dieticians or nutritionists. Values may vary significantly based on specific brands, ingredient variations, and precise measurements. For exact dietary information relevant to your needs, please utilize an independent online nutritional calculator of your preference.

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