Microwave Peanut Butter Fudge

This microwave peanut butter fudge is the ultimate quick and easy candy recipe. It’s creamy, rich, and full of nutty flavor  and the best part? It only takes a few minutes to prepare, with no stovetop or candy thermometer required. Perfect for holiday trays, homemade gifts, or whenever you want a simple sweet treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this easy fudge, gather:

• 1 cup unsalted butter

• 1½ cups creamy peanut butter

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 3¼ cups powdered sugar

• 1 tablespoon water (to help hold parchment paper in place)

• Optional: red and green M&M’s, for a festive topping

Pro Tip: Stick with smooth, commercial peanut butter. Natural peanut butter tends to separate and won’t give you that silky, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Variations & Substitutions

• Peanut Butter: Jif, Skippy, Peter Pan, or Reese’s all work. Each brand gives slightly different color and sweetness, but the texture stays the same.

• Vanilla Extract: Out of vanilla? Use maple syrup for a subtle twist.

• Powdered Sugar: Also called icing sugar or confectioner’s sugar. If you don’t have any, you can substitute granulated sugar, but your fudge may turn out slightly grainier.

• Toppings: M&M’s make it fun and festive, but chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, or mini marshmallows are also delicious.
  

  Step-By-Step Instructions

  STEP ONE: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Leave an overhang on two sides so you can lift the fudge out later. Add 1 tablespoon of water under the parchment to help it stick.

  STEP TWO: In a large microwave-safe bowl, add butter and peanut butter. Heat for 1 minute, then stir until smooth. Microwave for another 30 seconds if needed.

  STEP THREE: Stir in vanilla extract.

  STEP FOUR: Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, stirring well after each addition. The mixture will thicken as you go.

  STEP FIVE: Spread the fudge evenly into the prepared pan.

  STEP SIX: Place another piece of parchment paper on top and press gently to smooth the surface. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

  STEP SEVEN: Remove from the fridge, take off the top parchment, and use the overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan.

  STEP EIGHT: Warm a sharp knife under hot water, dry it, and cut into small squares. Add M&M’s on top for a colorful holiday touch, if desired.

     Serving Ideas

          This peanut butter fudge is perfect for:

• • Holiday cookie exchanges

  • Homemade gift boxes with other candies

  • Afternoon snacks with a cup of coffee or tea

  • Adding to dessert platters alongside chocolate fudge or rocky road

     Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Place wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Room Temperature: Keeps for about 3 days in a cool spot.
• Freezer: Wrap individual squares in foil and freeze in a bag for up to 3 months.

    FAQs

• Does peanut butter fudge need to be refrigerated?
  Yes, it sets best and keeps longer when chilled.
• Can I use natural peanut butter?
  Not recommended — the oil separation will prevent the fudge from setting smoothly.
• What’s the easiest way to slice chilled fudge?
  Heat a large knife under hot water, wipe it dry, then cut in one motion for clean edges.

✨ Creamy, nutty, and perfectly sweet, this microwave peanut butter fudge is a no-fail recipe that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for the holidays or just because, it’s guaranteed to disappear fast!