Christmas Peanut Butter Fudge is a rich and creamy holiday treat that takes just 5 minutes of hands-on time. This microwave fudge combines smooth peanut butter with powdered sugar and optional mini chocolate chips for a sweet treat that’s perfect for cookie trays, holiday parties, or packaging up as homemade gifts.
Christmas Peanut Butter Fudge
What makes this recipe so amazing is how simple it is with just four ingredients. You don’t need a candy thermometer or any special techniques – just melt, mix, and chill. The mini chocolate chips on top add a festive touch and give you that perfect peanut butter and chocolate combination in every bite.
Ingredients & Equipment
- Butter
- Creamy peanut butter
- Powdered sugar
- Mini chocolate chips (optional)
Full measurements for each ingredient can be found in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
You’ll also need a few things from your kitchen:
- 8×8-inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
- Microwave safe bowl
- Silicone spatula
Step By Step Directions
This recipe makes 36 pieces. It takes 5 minutes of prep time and 1 minute 30 seconds of cook time.
Step 1. Heat the butter and peanut butter in a microwave safe bowl in 30 second intervals, stirring between each interval, until melted. It took mine 1 minute 30 seconds to melt.
Step 2. Add the powdered sugar 1/2 cup at a time, stir between each addition.
Step 3. Spread the mixture in a parchment paper lined 8×8 baking dish. Press into an even layer.
Step 4. Top with mini chocolate chips, pressing the chips lightly into the fudge.
Step 5. Chill for at least two hours, then slice into one-inch pieces before serving.
Variations
- Skip the chocolate chips for plain peanut butter fudge
- Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for extra texture
- Add red and green M&M’s instead of chocolate chips for more festive colors
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the top instead of using mini chips
- Mix in chopped Reese’s cups for peanut butter cup fudge
- Add a layer of melted chocolate on the bottom before adding the peanut butter mixture
- Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for peppermint peanut butter fudge
Leftovers & Storage
Store Christmas Peanut Butter Fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking. You can also freeze it for up to three months, making it perfect for making ahead during the busy holiday season.
Tips & Tricks
- Stir well between microwave intervals to ensure even melting and prevent hot spots
- Add the powdered sugar gradually – this prevents lumps and makes mixing easier
- Press the fudge firmly into the pan for clean, even squares when you cut it
- Let the parchment paper hang over the edges of the pan so you can easily lift the whole block out for cutting
- Press the mini chocolate chips gently into the top so they stick when you cut the fudge
- Let the fudge sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cutting for cleaner slices
Recipe FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter? Regular creamy peanut butter works best for this recipe. Natural peanut butter with oil separation can make the texture grainy and won’t set up as well.
Why is my fudge crumbly? If your fudge is crumbly, it likely needed a bit more butter or the peanut butter mixture got too cool before mixing in the powdered sugar. Make sure everything is well combined while still warm.
Can I make this without chocolate chips? Absolutely! The chocolate chips are optional and just add decoration and extra flavor. Plain peanut butter fudge is delicious on its own.
How do I get clean cuts when slicing? Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. You can also run the knife under hot water, dry it, then cut for even cleaner edges.
Can I double this recipe? Yes! Use a 9×13-inch pan instead of an 8×8-inch pan. The microwave time and chill time stay the same, you’ll just have more pieces of fudge.
Why do I need to chill it for so long? The two-hour chill time allows the fudge to firm up completely so it holds its shape when cut. You can speed this up slightly by putting it in the freezer for about an hour instead.
More Christmas Fudge Recipes
- Fantasy Fudge
- Peppermint Fudge
- Chocolate Caramel Fudge
- Easy Chocolate Fudge
- Christmas Fudge
- White Chocolate Fudge
- Maple Fudge
- Chocolate Frosting Fudge
Microwave Peanut Butter Fudge
Ingredients
- ½ cup butter
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips optional
Instructions
- Heat the butter and peanut butter in a microwave safe bowl in 30 second intervals, stirring between each interval, until melted. It took mine 1 minute 30 seconds to melt.
- Add the powdered sugar ½ cup at a time, stir between each addition.
- Spread the mixture in a parchment paper lined 8x8 baking dish. Press into an even layer.
- Top with mini chocolate chips, pressing the chips lightly into the fudge.
- Chill for at least two hours, then slice into one-inch pieces before serving.
Notes
Pin This Post
Leave a Reply