Description
These Holiday Peanut Butter Fudge Squares are a rich and festive treat combining creamy peanut butter, sweet powdered sugar, and a decadent white chocolate topping sprinkled with crushed candy canes and holiday sprinkles. Perfect for holiday parties, gifting, or a seasonal dessert, these no-bake fudge squares offer a delightful blend of smooth textures and crunchy festive decorations.
Ingredients
Scale
Fudge Base
- ½ cup (1 stick / 113g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar, sifted
White Chocolate Topping
- 1 cup (170g) white chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp heavy cream (or 1 tsp coconut oil for smooth melting)
Decorations
- Crushed candy canes (about 3–4 candy canes)
- Red + green holiday sprinkles
- Optional: mini peanut butter cups for serving
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Peanut Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and creamy peanut butter together over low heat, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully combined to ensure no lumps remain.
- Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly to infuse the fudge with subtle flavor.
- Incorporate Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar to the peanut butter mixture, stirring until a thick, smooth dough forms with no visible sugar granules.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper ensuring some overhang to easily lift the fudge later.
- Press Fudge Mixture: Transfer the peanut butter fudge mixture into the lined baking dish and press it down evenly, smoothing the top surface with a spatula for an even layer.
- Chill to Firm Up: Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill for about 30 minutes until the fudge firms up sufficiently and holds shape.
- Melt White Chocolate Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips and heavy cream (or coconut oil). Heat in 20-second increments, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted without overheating.
- Apply Topping: Spread or drizzle the melted white chocolate mixture evenly over the chilled peanut butter fudge base.
- Add Festive Decorations: Immediately sprinkle crushed candy canes and red and green holiday sprinkles over the white chocolate before it sets to ensure they stick well.
- Final Chill: Return the fudge to the refrigerator and chill for 1 to 2 hours until the topping is fully set and firm.
- Slice and Serve: Remove the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper overhang, place on a cutting board, and slice into squares. Serve with optional mini peanut butter cups on the side if desired.
Notes
- Ensure the powdered sugar is sifted to avoid lumps in the fudge base.
- Low heat when melting prevents scorching the butter and peanut butter.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut oil as suggested.
- Press the fudge firmly into the pan to help it set properly and avoid crumbling.
- Chilling times may vary depending on refrigerator temperature, so allow extra time if needed.
- Store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: holiday fudge, peanut butter fudge, Christmas dessert, no bake fudge, white chocolate fudge, festive treats
