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Microwave Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe

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4.3 from 5 reviews

This creamy and delicious Peanut Butter Fudge recipe is made quickly in the microwave and chilled to perfection. It combines rich unsalted butter, smooth peanut butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar to create a smooth, sweet treat that’s easy to prepare and perfect for holiday gifting or anytime snacking. Optionally garnished with festive red and green M&M’s for a colorful seasonal touch.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours (chilling time)
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 36 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 1½ cups creamy peanut butter
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3¼ cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon water (for the 8x8 pan to help keep the parchment paper in place)

Optional Garnish

  • Red and green M&M’s (seasonal garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan: Using the bottom of the 8×8 baking dish as a template, cut a piece of parchment paper to fit inside the pan. This will help in smoothing the fudge and will stay on top of the fudge during chilling.
  2. Measure Overhanging Parchment: Cut additional parchment paper with enough overhang to cover the pan sides, which will be used later to lift the fudge from the pan.
  3. Grease the Pan: Spray the bottom of the 8×8 baking pan with cooking spray to keep the parchment paper securely in place while you spread the fudge.
  4. Line the Pan: Place the prepared parchment paper inside the baking pan, pressing down to fit snugly.
  5. Melt Butter and Peanut Butter: Combine the unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter in a medium-sized microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 60-90 seconds until butter is fully melted. Carefully remove and stir until smooth.
  6. Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until fully incorporated into the peanut butter mixture.
  7. Incorporate Powdered Sugar: Gradually sift and add powdered sugar one cup at a time, stirring well after each addition. Continue until the mixture is stiff and no white powder streaks remain.
  8. Pour and Spread Fudge: Transfer the fudge mixture into the prepared 8×8 pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan for a smooth surface.
  9. Cover and Chill: Place the pre-cut parchment paper on top of the fudge to smooth it further. Leave the parchment in place and refrigerate the fudge for 2 hours to set firmly.
  10. Score the Fudge: After chilling, remove the fudge from the refrigerator and peel off the top parchment paper. Use a sharp knife to pre-score the fudge into desired portions (4×4 or 6×6), but do not cut through the parchment yet.
  11. Remove Fudge from Pan: Lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang and place it onto a cutting board.
  12. Slice the Fudge: Warm a large sharp knife under hot water, dry it, and slice the fudge along the pre-scored lines for clean cuts.
  13. Decorate (Optional): Gently press 2-3 red and green M&M’s on top of each fudge piece for a festive, seasonal decoration without cracking the fudge.

Notes

  • Make sure to sift the powdered sugar to avoid lumps in the fudge.
  • Use creamy peanut butter for the smoothest texture; chunky peanut butter will alter the consistency.
  • Heating the knife under hot water before slicing helps achieve clean cuts without cracking the fudge.
  • Keep the fudge refrigerated until serving to maintain firmness.
  • You can skip the M&M garnish if preferred or substitute with other toppings like chopped nuts or sea salt.