Name: Peanut Butter Candy Bar Fudge
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup butter; 3 cups granulated sugar; ⅔ cup evaporated milk; 1 ¾ cups Reese’s peanut butter chips, coarsely chopped; ½ teaspoon salt; 7 ounces marshmallow creme (1 jar); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups assorted candy, chopped or whole

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Introduction to Peanut Butter Candy Bar Fudge

Myself, I cherish those little moments of indulgence that make life sweeter. That’s where my Peanut Butter Candy Bar Fudge comes in! This delightful treat is not just a dessert; it’s a well-deserved escape that can brighten any hectic day. With its layers of creamy peanut butter and bits of whimsical candy, it’s like a hug in a square. Whether you’re prepping for a family movie night or need a quick gift for a loved one, this easy fudge is ready to impress and delight everyone who tastes it.

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Candy Bar Fudge

Who doesn’t love a dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious? My Peanut Butter Candy Bar Fudge checks all the boxes. It comes together in a mere 25 minutes, making it the perfect remedy for sugar cravings on busy afternoons. The blend of smooth peanut butter and delightful candy creates a taste explosion that brings smiles. Plus, it’s a fun project to tackle with kids, making memories together in the kitchen.

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Candy Bar Fudge

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making scrumptious Peanut Butter Candy Bar Fudge. Let’s look at what you’ll need:

Butter: The base that gives the fudge its rich, creamy texture. You can substitute with margarine if you want.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetness, of course! This is what makes the fudge irresistibly delightful.
Evaporated Milk: It adds moisture and a velvety creaminess. Don’t confuse it with sweetened condensed milk—it’s friendlier for baking!
Reese’s Peanut Butter Chips: You want these because they melt beautifully and give that classic peanut butter flavor. Feel free to mix in other brands or use regular peanut butter!
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the sweet flavors and balances everything out.
Marshmallow Creme: This ingredient adds a fluffy texture and sweetness that makes the fudge extra special. You can also find recipes that swap this for homemade marshmallow fluff.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla deepens the flavor and adds warmth. Always opt for pure vanilla for the best taste!
Assorted Candies: Use your favorites—chopped or whole! Think chocolate bars, gummy candies, or whatever tickles your fancy. You can customize to suit your family’s tastes perfectly.

For exact measurements, be sure to check the bottom of the article, where you’ll find the recipe ready for printing!

How to Make Peanut Butter Candy Bar Fudge

Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the fun part: making this indulgent Peanut Butter Candy Bar Fudge. Trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be whipping it up for friends and family in no time!

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by prepping your baking dish! Spray a 9×13 dish with some cooking spray. Then, line it with parchment paper to make pulling out the fudge a breeze. This step keeps everything tidy and truly makes life easier later on!

Step 2: Combine Ingredients on the Stovetop

Next, grab a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Combine butter, granulated sugar, and evaporated milk in it. This base concoction is where the magic begins—over medium heat, let the butter melt into the sugary goodness. Don’t rush; just keep an eye on it and stir occasionally.

Step 3: Boil and Stir

Here’s where it gets exciting! Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once you see the bubbles forming, let it boil for exactly 5 minutes while stirring continuously. I know, it feels like a workout for your arm! But don’t skip this; it ensures your fudge maintains that smooth texture.

Step 4: Add Peanut Butter and Marshmallow

When those 5 minutes are up, take the saucepan off the heat. It’s time to stir in the coarsely chopped Reese’s peanut butter chips and a pinch of salt. I find that using a whisk helps eliminate lumps quickly. Then, fold in the marshmallow creme and vanilla extract. This is when your kitchen will be filled with that fabulous aroma!

Step 5: Layer with Assorted Candies

Let’s layer it up! Start by sprinkling one-third of your assorted candy on the bottom of the prepared dish. Pour half of the hot fudge mixture over the candies, allowing them to soak up all that goodness. Then sprinkle another third of the candies on top, followed by the remaining fudge. Finish off by adding the last third of the candies. It’s like building a candy paradise!

Step 6: Cool and Cut

Now, let your creation cool at room temperature. This is the hardest part, waiting to dig in! After about an hour, once it’s set, cut it into squares. Serve it with pride or store it—if there are any leftovers! You’ll love seeing the smiles this Peanut Butter Candy Bar Fudge brings to your table.

Tips for Success

Always stir continuously while boiling to prevent burning.
Use a whisk for mixing peanut butter chips; it helps keep the mixture smooth.
Don’t rush cooling; letting it sit at room temperature gives the best texture.
Try different candy combinations for fun twists on your fudge.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for lasting freshness.

Equipment Needed

9×13 Baking Dish: Essential for shaping your fudge. A glass dish works beautifully if you don’t have a metal one.
Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan: This is key for evenly heating your ingredients. A regular saucepan will do if that’s all you have!
Whisk: Perfect for creating a smooth mixture. A wooden spoon can substitute if whisking isn’t available.
Parchment Paper: Helps with easy removal. If you’re out, greasing the pan well will work too.

Variations of Peanut Butter Candy Bar Fudge

Dark Chocolate Fudge: Swap out the peanut butter chips for dark chocolate chips for a rich twist!
Nut-Free Option: Replace peanut butter chips with sunbutter or almond butter for nut-free fudge. Adjust candy choices accordingly!
Vegan Version: Use vegan butter, non-dairy milk, and a plant-based marshmallow alternative to create a vegan-friendly fudge.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon into the mix for a surprising, sweet, and spicy flavor profile.
Fruit-Filled Fudge: Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or chopped nuts for added texture and nutrition!

Serving Suggestions

Pair the Peanut Butter Candy Bar Fudge with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Serve it alongside a frothy cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
For a festive touch, plate the fudge on a colorful platter and garnish with fresh berries.
Wrap individual squares in clear bags with ribbons for charming gifts or party favors.
Cut into heart shapes using cookie cutters to bring a smile on Valentine’s Day!

FAQs about Peanut Butter Candy Bar Fudge

Wondering about some specifics of my Peanut Butter Candy Bar Fudge? Here are a few frequently asked questions that might help you out:

How should I store Peanut Butter Candy Bar Fudge?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. It stays delicious and fresh!

Can I freeze the fudge?

Absolutely! Freeze it in an airtight container. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper. Thaw it in the fridge before indulging.

What kind of candy works best?

You can use any candy your heart desires! Chocolate bars, gummy candies, or even crushed cookies work great. Just keep the total amount in mind.

Is there a way to make it gluten-free?

Yes! Simply check the labels on the candies and use gluten-free options. Most ingredients in this fudge are naturally gluten-free.

Can I adjust the sweetness?

If you prefer a less sweet fudge, consider reducing the sugar slightly. Adding more peanut butter can help maintain that delightful flavor!

Final Thoughts

Each time I whip up this Peanut Butter Candy Bar Fudge, it feels like a joyful celebration right in my kitchen. The delightful combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet candies never fails to create smiles. This treat isn’t just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s about sharing love and warmth with family and friends. Whether you’re treating yourself or hosting a gathering, this fudge is sure to light up faces. So go ahead, create some delicious memories together; after all, some of the best moments in life are those sweet little bites of joy!