This microwave peanut butter fudge is the ultimate quick and easy candy recipe. It\u2019s creamy, rich, and full of nutty flavor\u00a0 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.<\/p>\n
To whip up this easy fudge, gather:<\/p>\n
1 cup unsalted butter<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
1\u00bd cups creamy peanut butter<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
2 teaspoons vanilla extract<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
3\u00bc cups powdered sugar<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
1 tablespoon water (to help hold parchment paper in place)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Optional: red and green M&M\u2019s, for a festive topping<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Pro Tip:<\/strong>\u00a0Stick with smooth, commercial peanut butter. Natural peanut butter tends to separate and won\u2019t give you that silky, melt-in-your-mouth texture.<\/p>\n Peanut Butter:<\/strong>\u00a0Jif, Skippy, Peter Pan, or Reese\u2019s all work. Each brand gives slightly different color and sweetness, but the texture stays the same.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Vanilla Extract:<\/strong>\u00a0Out of vanilla? Use maple syrup for a subtle twist.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Powdered Sugar:<\/strong>\u00a0Also called icing sugar or confectioner\u2019s sugar. If you don\u2019t have any, you can substitute granulated sugar, but your fudge may turn out slightly grainier.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Holiday cookie exchanges<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Homemade gift boxes with other candies<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Afternoon snacks with a cup of coffee or tea<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Adding to dessert platters alongside chocolate fudge or rocky roadToppings:<\/strong>\u00a0M&M\u2019s make it fun and festive, but chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, or mini marshmallows are also delicious.<\/p>\n STEP ONE:<\/strong>\u00a0Line an 8\u00d78-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.<\/p>\n STEP TWO:<\/strong>\u00a0In 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.<\/p>\n STEP THREE:<\/strong>\u00a0Stir in vanilla extract.<\/p>\n STEP FOUR:<\/strong>\u00a0Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, stirring well after each addition. The mixture will thicken as you go.<\/p>\n STEP FIVE:<\/strong>\u00a0Spread the fudge evenly into the prepared pan.<\/p>\n STEP SIX:<\/strong>\u00a0Place another piece of parchment paper on top and press gently to smooth the surface. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.<\/p>\n STEP SEVEN:<\/strong>\u00a0Remove from the fridge, take off the top parchment, and use the overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan.<\/p>\n STEP EIGHT:<\/strong>\u00a0Warm a sharp knife under hot water, dry it, and cut into small squares. Add M&M\u2019s on top for a colorful holiday touch, if desired.<\/p>\n \u2728 Creamy, nutty, and perfectly sweet, this microwave peanut butter fudge is a no-fail recipe that everyone will love. Whether you\u2019re making it for the holidays or just because, it\u2019s guaranteed to disappear fast!<\/p>\n <\/center><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n Variations & Substitutions<\/h2>\n
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Step-By-Step Instructions<\/h2>\n
\u00a0 \u00a0 Serving Idea<\/h2>\n
\u00a0 \u00a0 This peanut butter fudge is perfect for:<\/h2>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Storage Tips<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Yes, it sets best and keeps longer when chilled.<\/li>\n
Not recommended \u2014 the oil separation will prevent the fudge from setting smoothly.<\/li>\n
Heat a large knife under hot water, wipe it dry, then cut in one motion for clean edges. \n