Peanut Butter Fudge (Microwave) Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, decadent treat that checks every box for creamy, dreamy, and utterly irresistible, Peanut Butter Fudge (Microwave) is here to delight! This recipe brings you all the nostalgic richness of classic homemade fudge, but skips the candy thermometer and endless stirring. With just a handful of pantry staples, a few minutes of hands-on time, and a cooling nap in the fridge, you’ll have a sweet, melt-in-your-mouth fudge perfect for last-minute parties or cozy nights in. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to sweets, you’ll love how Peanut Butter Fudge (Microwave) combines unbeatable flavor with effortless preparation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Peanut Butter Fudge (Microwave) is how simple the ingredient list is, yet each piece brings something essential to the table. Every component contributes to the signature creaminess, rich flavor, or smooth texture that defines this classic treat.

• Unsalted Butter: Gives the fudge its irresistible richness and a perfectly melt-in-your-mouth texture!
• Creamy Peanut Butter: The star of the show, this adds peanutty depth and keeps the fudge incredibly smooth. Any commercial brand will do.
• Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavors and adds a subtle warmth that balances the peanut butter.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the fudge, while keeping it delicate instead of gritty. Sift for ultimate smoothness!
• Water: Just a splash helps secure your parchment in the pan so pouring and smoothing the fudge is a breeze.
• Red and Green M&M’s (optional): A festive flourish for holidays or special occasions—totally optional, totally delightful.

How to Make Peanut Butter Fudge (Microwave)

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Line your 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, letting it hang over the sides so you can lift the fudge out later. Adding a tablespoon of water underneath helps the paper stick, making the process mess-free. Cut a second piece of parchment to sit directly atop the fudge while it chills.

Step 2: Melt the Buttery, Peanutty Base

Combine your unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Pop them into the microwave for 60 seconds—just enough to soften and melty-fy everything. Stir until smooth and glossy, then mix in the vanilla extract for that cozy bakery aroma.

Step 3: Sweeten and Thicken

Slowly add your powdered sugar to the warm mixture, one cup at a time, stirring constantly. It will get thick and look like it can’t take any more sugar—but keep mixing! The more you stir, the silkier it gets. If you want the smoothest fudge, sift your powdered sugar first.

Step 4: Spread and Smooth

Pour your luscious fudge base into the prepared pan, gently spreading it with a spatula to fill every corner. Place the smaller piece of parchment on top and press lightly to smooth the surface for that picture-perfect finish. This extra step makes your Peanut Butter Fudge (Microwave) look bakery-bought!

Step 5: Chill and Slice

Slide your pan into the fridge for at least two hours. Don’t rush—the chilling time is key for setting that meltaway texture. Once set, remove the top parchment, lift the fudge out with the overhanging paper, and use a hot, dry knife to slice into neat squares. Pre-scoring before removing from the pan gives you perfect, even pieces every time.

Step 6: Add a Festive Finish

For the ultimate finishing touch, dot the top of each fudge square with red and green M&M’s if you like. Not only does this add color and crunch, it’s a fun way to make Peanut Butter Fudge (Microwave) holiday-ready or just a bit extra special.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Fudge (Microwave)

Garnishes

Dress up your fudge with M&M’s or even a few crushed peanuts for a little texture. For a classic look, a pinch of flaky sea salt on top really makes the peanut butter flavor pop. If you’re serving at a party, a dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar adds that extra “wow” factor.

Side Dishes

Peanut Butter Fudge (Microwave) pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or sliced bananas for a fruity contrast. If you want a more indulgent spread, serve alongside chocolate brownies, shortbread cookies, or a bowl of vanilla ice cream for a show-stopping dessert platter.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the fudge into tiny bite-size cubes and pop them into festive mini cupcake liners for an elegant treat tray. Stack the squares in a glass jar tied with ribbon as a sweet homemade gift. For holidays, use cookie cutters to cut the chilled fudge into shapes like stars or hearts for a truly personalized batch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Peanut Butter Fudge (Microwave) keeps happily in an airtight container in your fridge for up to one week. Layer wax or parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and preserve that perfectly smooth finish.

Freezing

If you want to make your fudge well ahead of time, it freezes beautifully! Wrap the uncut block tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or store cut pieces with parchment between them in a freezer-safe container. It’ll stay fresh for up to three months—just let it come to room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

Fudge is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you like it extra soft, let it sit out of the fridge for 20 minutes before serving. There’s no need to microwave it again, though if you accidentally over-chill and want it a touch creamier, a 5-10 second zap in the microwave does the trick.

FAQs

Why does Peanut Butter Fudge (Microwave) turn out grainy sometimes?

Graininess usually comes from unmixed powdered sugar or using chunky peanut butter. Always sift your powdered sugar and mix thoroughly for a silky-smooth result, and stick with creamy peanut butter for best texture.

Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?

Natural peanut butter may cause the fudge to be oily or not set as firmly, since it lacks stabilizers found in regular brands. For a reliable, creamy Peanut Butter Fudge (Microwave), commercial creamy peanut butters like JIF or Skippy work best.

Do I have to use unsalted butter?

Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness of your fudge. If you only have salted butter, you can use it—just expect a bit of extra salty bite, which actually pairs nicely with the sweet peanut butter for some folks!

How can I make Peanut Butter Fudge (Microwave) vegan?

Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and choose a dairy-free peanut butter. Double-check that your powdered sugar is vegan, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing, animal-free treat with all the flavor.

Can I double (or halve) the recipe?

Absolutely. For a bigger crowd, double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. To make less, simply halve everything and use a loaf pan—the process is identical. Just adjust your chill time for thicker or thinner batches.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly nothing like sharing a plate of homemade Peanut Butter Fudge (Microwave) with the people you love—especially when it’s so easy and foolproof! Whether you’re whipping up a quick dessert or planning ahead for special gatherings, give this recipe a try. You’ll be amazed by how delicious—and dangerously simple—it is!

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