Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love the combination of chocolate and peanut butter, and this fudge recipe brings them together in the most delightful way. It’s a quick and easy treat that comes together in just under 30 minutes and is perfect for satisfying my sweet cravings. The best part is the creamy texture that melts in your mouth, making it a hit with family and friends alike. I often make a batch before gatherings, and it's always the first thing to disappear from the dessert table!

Tessa Wright

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:25:06.482Z

When I first made this Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge, I wasn't sure how it would turn out. I decided to use high-quality chocolate and creamy peanut butter, and the result was simply divine. The fudge set perfectly without any fuss, and I loved how the flavors melded together.

I find that letting the fudge cool completely before cutting it into squares makes a huge difference in presentation. It ensures each piece holds its shape nicely, making it ideal for gifting or sharing at parties. Trust me, everyone will be asking for the recipe!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Decadent and rich chocolate flavor with a nutty punch from peanut butter
  • Smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture that feels indulgent yet simple
  • Quick to prepare, perfect for last-minute cravings or gatherings

The Importance of Quality Chocolate

Using high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips is essential for achieving the rich, decadent flavor that defines this fudge. Look for brands that use real chocolate rather than compound chocolate, as this will enhance both the taste and texture. The melting process should be done over low heat to prevent the chocolate from seizing or burning. Stir frequently until the chocolate is completely melted and glossy, indicating it's ready for the next step.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider using dark chocolate chips for a more intense flavor, or even milk chocolate for a sweeter profile. Each type of chocolate will slightly alter the final taste of the fudge, allowing for customization based on personal preferences. Just keep in mind that using different chocolates may also affect how the fudge sets, so always watch for the consistency during mixing.

Peanut Butter Considerations

When selecting peanut butter for this recipe, creamy options work best as they blend seamlessly with the melted chocolate. Natural peanut butter can be used, but it's important to stir it well before measuring since the oil tends to separate. Avoid chunky varieties for this fudge to ensure a smooth and creamy final product. If you're looking for a nut-free alternative, try almond butter or sunbutter, which will still yield a delicious result.

Storing any leftover fudge is straightforward. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to a week without losing its quality. If you need to save some for later, you can freeze it in small portions. Just wrap the pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature when you're ready to enjoy it again.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your fudge:

Fudge Ingredients

  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure to have everything measured and ready to go before you start!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your fudge masterpiece:

Melt the Chocolate

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Add Peanut Butter

Once the chocolate is melted, stir in the peanut butter until fully combined and smooth.

Mix in Condensed Milk

Pour in the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing well until everything is evenly blended.

Pour and Set

Spread the mixture into a greased 8x8 inch baking pan and smooth the top. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.

Cut into Pieces

Once set, remove the fudge from the pan and cut it into squares. Enjoy!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

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Pro Tips

  • Experiment with adding nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a flavor boost!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your fudge doesn't set properly, it could be due to a few factors. One common issue is not using enough chocolate or peanut butter, which can result in a softer texture. Ensure you're measuring accurately and, if necessary, increase the amount of chocolate chips slightly. Increasing refrigeration time can also help; if it doesn't set after 2 hours, give it an additional hour or two in the fridge.

Another issue may arise if the mixture becomes grainy. This usually happens if the chocolate is overheated during melting. To mitigate this, always melt slowly over low heat and remove from the heat as soon as the chocolate is glossy and smooth. If you see lumps forming, a quick fix is to stir in a teaspoon of warm milk to restore the smoothness before pouring into the pan.

Serving Suggestions

You can serve this chocolate peanut butter fudge in various ways. For a simple presentation, cut it into bite-sized squares and serve on a decorative platter. If hosting a gathering, consider pairing the fudge with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the richness. It also makes a lovely gift when wrapped in festive cellophane or stored in a decorative tin.

For an added twist, try enhancing the fudge with toppings such as a sprinkle of sea salt or crushed peanuts before it sets. These additions contribute contrasting flavors and textures that elevate the indulgence. Moreover, you can also drizzle melted white chocolate over the top after the fudge has cooled for a stylish and delicious finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give a richer flavor.

→ How long can I store the fudge?

It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

→ Can I freeze the fudge?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container.

→ Can I make this vegan?

You can substitute with vegan chocolate and nut butter to make it dairy-free.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge

I absolutely love the combination of chocolate and peanut butter, and this fudge recipe brings them together in the most delightful way. It’s a quick and easy treat that comes together in just under 30 minutes and is perfect for satisfying my sweet cravings. The best part is the creamy texture that melts in your mouth, making it a hit with family and friends alike. I often make a batch before gatherings, and it's always the first thing to disappear from the dessert table!

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Tessa Wright

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 16 pieces

What You'll Need

Fudge Ingredients

  1. 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  2. 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  3. 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
  4. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  5. 1/4 teaspoon salt

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 02

Once the chocolate is melted, stir in the peanut butter until fully combined and smooth.

Step 03

Pour in the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing well until everything is evenly blended.

Step 04

Spread the mixture into a greased 8x8 inch baking pan and smooth the top. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.

Step 05

Once set, remove the fudge from the pan and cut it into squares. Enjoy!

Extra Tips

  1. Experiment with adding nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a flavor boost!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 6g