Creamy Chocolate Peanut Fudge is a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth dessert that brings together the luxurious texture of chocolate with the nutty richness of peanuts. Whether you’re making it for the holidays, gifting it to loved ones, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, this fudge offers the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess. The smooth chocolate base, infused with creamy peanut butter and topped with crunchy peanut bits, creates a luscious experience in every bite. Easy to prepare and requiring minimal ingredients, this no-bake treat is ideal for both beginners and seasoned cooks looking for a quick fix for their sweet cravings. It stores well, making it perfect for preparing ahead of time or keeping on hand for unexpected guests. Best of all, it doesn’t require a candy thermometer or any complicated techniques—just some stirring, melting, and a little patience while it sets.
Ingredients
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped roasted peanuts (optional for garnish)
• Butter or non-stick spray for greasing pan
Instructions
• Prepare the Pan
Grease an 8×8 inch square baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the fudge later. Leave some overhang to lift the fudge out once it’s set.
• Melt the Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and peanut butter. Place over low to medium heat. Stir constantly with a silicone spatula or wooden spoon to prevent burning. Allow everything to melt slowly until the mixture is smooth, glossy, and fully combined.
• Add Vanilla and Salt
Once the mixture is melted and uniform, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt to enhance the flavor. This small addition brings depth and balances the sweetness of the fudge.
• Pour and Spread
Immediately pour the warm fudge mixture into the prepared pan. Use the back of a spoon or an offset spatula to spread it evenly to the corners and smooth the top. It will begin to firm up as it cools, so work quickly.
• Add Peanuts on Top (Optional)
If desired, sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts over the top for added texture and a delightful crunch. Gently press them into the surface of the fudge so they adhere as it sets.
• Chill Until Firm
Place the pan in the refrigerator and let the fudge chill for at least 3 hours or until it is completely set. For best results, refrigerate overnight.
• Cut and Serve
Once firm, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper. Place it on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to slice it into even squares. For cleaner cuts, wipe the knife with a warm damp cloth between each cut.
• Store Properly
Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If you want to keep it longer, it can be frozen for up to 3 months—just wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.