Makes 16 squares (8x8 pan)
1 (16 oz) container vanilla frosting (full-fat, like Betty Crocker or Pillsbury—avoid “lite”)
1 (16 oz) jar creamy peanut butter (not “natural”—needs stabilizers to set firm!)
✅ Joye’s Optional Upgrades (Because You Love Depth & Crunch!)
½ tsp pure vanilla extract (stirred in after melting—deepens flavor)
Pinch of fine sea salt (balances sweetness—your signature touch!)
¼ cup mini chocolate chips or chopped roasted peanuts (folded in before chilling)
Flaky sea salt sprinkled on top before chilling (elegant finish!)
⚠️ Pro Tip: Use creamy peanut butter—not crunchy—for ultra-smooth fudge. Save the crunch for the topping!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Melt with Care
→ In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine frosting and peanut butter.
→ Microwave on medium (50%) power in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each, until smooth and glossy (~1.5–2 minutes total).
✅ Don’t rush—high heat can cause separation. Stir until fully blended.
2. Customize (If You Like!)
→ Stir in vanilla extract, sea salt, or mix-ins (chocolate chips, etc.) until evenly distributed.
3. Press & Set
→ Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides (for easy lifting!).
→ Pour mixture into pan.
→ Smooth the top with a greased spatula or offset knife.
→ Optional: Sprinkle with extra peanuts or flaky salt.
4. Chill to Perfection
→ Refrigerate 1–3 hours, or until firm and sliceable.
→ For faster set: Freeze 45–60 minutes (but fridge = creamier texture).
5. Slice & Shine
→ Lift slab out using parchment overhang.
→ Cut into 16 squares with a sharp knife (wipe blade with hot water between cuts for clean edges).
Tips for Perfect Fudge (Joye-Approved!)
🔸 Use full-fat, shelf-stable brands. “Natural” or low-fat versions contain oils/water that prevent firm setting.
🔸 Stir well after each microwave burst. Smooth = no grainy pockets.
🔸 Chill fully. Soft fudge = messy slices. Patience pays.
🔸 Say “Ready?” before serving. It’s not superstition—it’s ritual. And rituals make sweets sweeter.
Delicious Variations to Try
Chocolate Swirl
Swirl ¼ cup melted chocolate into fudge before chilling
Rich, marbled,
so
giftable
S’More Fudge
Fold in ½ cup mini marshmallows + ¼ cup crushed graham crackers
Nostalgic, campfire magic
Salted Caramel
Swirl 2 tbsp thick caramel sauce into fudge before chilling
Your love of sweet-salty depth—
so
Kentucky
Nut-Free Joy
Use sunflower seed butter (like SunButter) + vanilla frosting
Safe, creamy, still deeply satisfying
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Fridge (covered): Up to 2 weeks in airtight container (layer with parchment).
Freezer: Up to 2 months! Freeze in single layer, then bag. Thaw at room temp 15 mins.
