Description
A no-bake, game-day friendly dessert that combines a dense, rich peanut butter fudge base with a smooth, sweet chocolate ganache topping. These squares are easy to make, make-ahead friendly, and perfect for parties.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter (standard brand like Jif or Skippy)
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: Crushed peanuts for garnish
Instructions
- Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and creamy peanut butter. Mix until smooth and uniform.
- Add the powdered sugar in batches and mix until incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract. The mixture should be thick and hold its shape.
- Transfer the peanut butter mixture to the prepared pan. Dust hands with powdered sugar and press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan to form a solid layer about 1/2 inch thick.
- Chill the pan in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to firm up the base.
- While the base chills, place chocolate chips and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir. If needed, microwave in 30-second intervals until smooth and glossy. Stir in the pinch of salt.
- Remove the pan from the fridge and pour the warm chocolate ganache over the chilled peanut butter base. Spread evenly to the edges.
- If using, sprinkle crushed peanuts on top while the chocolate is still soft.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set.
- Lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Slice into 16 squares using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
Notes
Use standard creamy peanut butter, not natural peanut butter, to avoid a greasy texture. Do not skip the chilling step for the peanut butter base, or the ganache will mix into it. For clean cuts, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between slices. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 80
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 5
Keywords: football season, buckeye, peanut butter fudge, game day dessert, no bake, easy dessert, party food, chocolate ganache