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If you are craving a decadent, creamy treat that perfectly balances rich peanut butter and smooth cheesecake flavors, this Peanut Butter Cheesecake Fudge Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth fudge with a crunchy graham cracker crust underpinning the silky peanut butter cheesecake filling—it’s indulgence at its finest and surprisingly simple to make, perfect for sharing with family or savoring all by yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Peanut Butter Cheesecake Fudge Recipe plays a vital role, from the buttery graham cracker crust that adds texture to the creamy peanut butter and cheesecake filling that delivers heavenly flavor. Let’s break down these essentials that combine to create this irresistible dessert.
- Graham Crackers (1 sleeve, crushed into fine crumbs): Provides a crisp, slightly sweet base that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling.
- Sugar (1 tablespoon, heaping + 3/4 cup): Adds just the right touch of sweetness throughout the crust and filling.
- Butter (4 tablespoons melted + 1/2 cup softened): Adds richness and helps bind the crust and filling together.
- Flour (1 cup): Adds structure and a subtle tenderness to the cheesecake layer.
- Peanut Butter (1 1/4 cups, creamy or chunky): The star ingredient that delivers that irresistible nutty, creamy flavor you crave.
- Vanilla (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor, adding warmth and depth.
- White Chocolate (1 1/2 cups, chips, bark, or melting chocolate): Brings a luscious sweetness and silky texture to the fudge.
- Cream Cheese (1 package, 8 ounces softened): Gives the fudge a rich, tangy cheesecake creaminess.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk (1 can): Sweetens and helps create the fudgy, creamy texture that makes this dessert irresistible.
How to Make Peanut Butter Cheesecake Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
First, crush your graham crackers into fine crumbs using a blender or food processor. Combine these crumbs with sugar and then coat them with melted butter for a rich, buttery flavor. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8 x 8-inch pan lined with parchment paper. Placing the pan in the freezer helps the crust hold firm when you add the luscious filling.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Peanut Butter Cheesecake Filling
Now it’s time for the magic! Melt the white chocolate gently in the microwave, stirring every 15 seconds until silky smooth. Warm the flour briefly, which helps give the filling the perfect texture. In a separate bowl, beat together the softened butter, sugar, peanut butter, cream cheese, and vanilla until creamy and smooth. Then mix in the warm flour, melted white chocolate, and sweetened condensed milk, combining everything into a rich, velvety filling.
Step 3: Assemble and Chill the Fudge
Take the crust out of the freezer and pour the decadent fudge mixture on top, spreading it evenly to cover every corner. Refrigerate the pan for at least four hours or overnight to allow the fudge to set completely. This chilling step is crucial, giving you that perfect firm yet creamy bite that makes this Peanut Butter Cheesecake Fudge Recipe so special.
Step 4: Slice and Enjoy
Once fully set, cut the fudge into 1-inch squares for perfect snack-sized bites or larger 2 x 3-inch pieces if you’re serving it as an indulgent dessert. Feel free to dress it up with whipped cream and colorful sprinkles for a festive touch before serving. Then, take a moment and savor that first heavenly bite!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Cheesecake Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra wow-factor, add a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle some chopped peanuts or colorful sprinkles on top. A drizzle of melted chocolate or caramel can also elevate the richness and make your presentation truly irresistible.
Side Dishes
Pairing this fudge with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful balance, giving you a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy texture. A cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk also round out the experience beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging fudge pieces on a decorative platter lined with parchment and add mini flags or handwritten tags to label the treat at parties. Wrapping individual squares in colorful wax paper makes for charming homemade gifts that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and maintain its creamy texture. Properly stored, it will stay delicious for up to a week, making it perfect for those sweet cravings that just don’t quit.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? Freeze the fudge in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. When properly wrapped, it can last up to three months without losing its luscious texture or flavor.
Reheating
Since fudge is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, avoid microwaving. Instead, just leave it out for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften slightly and let those flavors truly shine through.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds a delightful texture contrast inside the smooth cheesecake filling, making the fudge even more interesting and enjoyable.
Is it necessary to chill the fudge overnight?
While you can chill it for as little as four hours, letting it set overnight ensures the fudge is perfectly firm and easier to cut, enhancing the overall texture and flavor blend.
Can I substitute white chocolate with milk or dark chocolate?
Yes, but keep in mind this will change the flavor profile from the classic creamy sweetness of white chocolate to a richer, more intense chocolate taste, which can be delicious but different.
What is the best way to crush graham crackers?
Using a food processor or blender yields the finest crumbs quickly. If you don’t have one, placing them in a sealed plastic bag and crushing them with a rolling pin also works great.
How long does this fudge last when refrigerated?
Properly stored in an airtight container, this fudge stays fresh and tasty for up to one week, making it perfect for prepping ahead or enjoying as a special treat throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Cheesecake Fudge Recipe is a decadent delight that’s surprisingly easy to make and impossible to resist. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing friends at your next gathering, give this recipe a try—you’ll quickly discover why it’s a beloved favorite that always leaves people asking for more.
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Peanut Butter Cheesecake Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 9 to 9 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This rich and creamy Peanut Butter Cheesecake Fudge combines a crunchy graham cracker crust with a luscious peanut butter and white chocolate cheesecake filling. Perfect as a sweet snack or dessert, this no-bake fudge is easy to prepare and sets firmly in the refrigerator, making it an ideal make-ahead treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 sleeve Graham Crackers, crushed into fine crumbs
- 1 tablespoon Sugar (heaping)
- 4 tablespoons Butter, melted
Filling
- 1 cup Flour
- 1 1/4 cups Peanut Butter (Creamy or Chunky)
- 3/4 cups Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1 1/2 cups White Chocolate (chips, bark, or melting chocolate)
- 1/2 cup Butter, softened
- 1 package Cream Cheese (8 ounces, softened)
- 1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk (14 ounces)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Place the graham crackers in a blender or food processor and pulse until finely crushed. Transfer the crumbs into a bowl, add the sugar, and mix well. Melt the butter in the microwave and pour over the crumbs, stirring until fully coated. Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper and press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom. Freeze the crust while preparing the filling.
- Melt White Chocolate and Prepare Flour: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate by heating in 15-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, microwave the flour for 1 minute, then stir and set aside.
- Make the Filling: In another mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, sugar, peanut butter, cream cheese, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well blended. Gradually add the microwaved flour, mixing thoroughly, then incorporate the melted white chocolate. Finally, stir in the sweetened condensed milk until all ingredients are fully combined.
- Assemble the Fudge: Remove the crust-lined pan from the freezer and pour the fudge mixture over the crust. Smooth the top evenly. Refrigerate the fudge for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.
- Serve: Once set firm, cut the fudge into 1-inch squares for snacks or 2×3-inch squares for dessert. Optionally, garnish with whipped cream and sprinkles before serving. Enjoy your delicious peanut butter cheesecake fudge!
Notes
- Use either creamy or chunky peanut butter according to preference.
- Microwaving the flour helps remove any raw taste in the final fudge.
- For easier cutting, ensure the fudge is fully chilled and firm before slicing.
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week in an airtight container.
- Feel free to add toppings like chopped nuts or chocolate drizzle for extra flavor and texture.
