Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares (Printable)

Rich, creamy chocolate and peanut butter squares with smooth layers and sweet, nutty flavors.

# What You'll Need:

→ Chocolate Layer

01 - 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
02 - 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Peanut Butter Layer

04 - 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
05 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter
06 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar
07 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

# How To Make It:

01 - Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal later.
02 - Combine chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter in a heatproof bowl. Melt using a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring frequently until completely smooth and glossy.
03 - Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the prepared pan. Spread evenly with a spatula to create a uniform layer. Refrigerate for 30 minutes until firm to the touch.
04 - In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine peanut butter and butter. Stir constantly until melted and well blended. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
05 - Pour the peanut butter mixture over the chilled chocolate layer. Use a spatula to spread evenly, covering the entire surface. Return to refrigerator.
06 - Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until completely firm throughout. The fudge should hold its shape when touched.
07 - Lift the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into 16 equal squares. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • You get that nostalgic chocolate peanut butter combo reminiscent of your favorite candy cups but in an elegant homemade form
  • The texture is incredibly creamy and smooth unlike some fudge recipes that turn out grainy or crumbly
  • Everything comes together in one pan with minimal cleanup required
02 -
  • Rushing the chilling time will result in messy misshapen squares that stick to your knife
  • The peanut butter layer must be poured over already set chocolate or the layers will swirl together
  • Room temperature ingredients will melt together more smoothly than cold ones straight from the refrigerator
03 -
  • Warm your knife under hot water and wipe it dry between cuts for perfectly smooth edges
  • Let the fudge sit at room temperature for five minutes before serving for the ideal creamy texture