Caramel Peanut Butter Fudge

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Introduction

This fudge is the perfect dreamy combination of silky caramel and creamy peanut butter. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires only a few simple ingredients, and sets beautifully into thick, perfect squares—just like the ones in your photo. Whether you’re making it for family, celebrations, holidays, or just to treat yourself, this fudge never fails to impress.

Ingredients

For the Fudge Base

  • 2 cups (450g) light brown sugar
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup (280g) creamy peanut butter
  • 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Optional Add-Ins (if you want more fun)

  • 1 cup chopped peanuts
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips
  • A drizzle of caramel on top

Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Pan

  1. Line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
  2. Leave extra parchment hanging over the edges so you can lift the fudge out easily later.

Step 2 — Create the Caramel Mixture

  1. In a large saucepan, add:
  • brown sugar
  • heavy cream
  • butter
  • salt
  1. Heat over medium, stirring constantly until the butter melts.
  2. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil.
  3. Boil for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
    (This thickens everything and gives that caramel base.)

Step 3 — Add Peanut Butter

  1. Turn off the heat.
  2. Add the peanut butter and stir until completely melted.
  3. Add the vanilla extract.

Step 4 — Add Powdered Sugar

  1. Add sifted powdered sugar one cup at a time.
  2. Mix until smooth, creamy, and thick.
  3. If adding peanuts or chocolate chips, fold them in gently.

Step 5 — Pour and Set

  1. Pour the hot fudge mixture into the prepared pan.
  2. Smooth the top with a spatula.
  3. Let it cool at room temperature for 1 hour.
  4. Then refrigerate for 2–3 hours until fully set.

Methods

  • Stovetop method (recommended): Gives best caramel flavor.
  • Microwave shortcut: Heat butter + sugar + cream in 4 intervals of 1 minute, stirring between each, then add peanut butter and powdered sugar. Not as caramelized but still delicious.
  • Freeze-set method: If you need it fast, freeze for 45 minutes.

History

Peanut butter fudge became popular in the early 1900s in American kitchens because it was cheap to make and didn’t require a thermometer. Caramel-based versions like this one became trendy in the 1950s as home cooks wanted softer, silkier fudge that tasted like candy-shop treats.

Benefits

  • Quick to make — under 15 minutes cooking.
  • No thermometer needed — beginner friendly.
  • Perfect texture — smooth, creamy, thick.
  • Stores well — keeps up to 10 days in the fridge.
  • Freezer friendly — lasts 2–3 months frozen.
  • Great for gifting — holds shape beautifully.

Nutrition (per square, approx.)

  • Calories: 250–300
  • Carbs: 28g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Sugar: 26g

(Depends on size of pieces.)

Conclusion

This caramel peanut butter fudge is one of the easiest, richest, and most melt-in-your-mouth treats you can make at home. Perfectly smooth, perfectly sweet, and unbelievably satisfying—this recipe never disappoints. Cut it into thick squares like your photo, store it chilled, and enjoy every single bite.

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