If you have a sweet tooth and love the classic combination of chocolate, caramel, and peanuts, you are going to adore this Snickers Fudge Recipe. It’s like a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth tribute to the beloved candy bar, but in a rich, homemade fudge form that’s perfect for sharing or indulging all by yourself. Each layer offers a perfect balance of creamy peanut butter, gooey caramel, crunchy peanuts, and smooth chocolate, making every bite a pure delight. Trust me, this Snickers Fudge Recipe will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dessert treats when you want something special but simple to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your ingredients lined up is the first step to making this delectable fudge, and the best part is how straightforward and accessible they all are. Every item plays a key role—from the chocolate chips that give richness and body, to the peanut butter that offers that unmistakable nutty creaminess, and the marshmallow creme that adds luscious fluffiness.
- 2 cups milk chocolate chips: The base chocolate flavor that melts smoothly into the fudge’s rich layers.
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (divided): Creamy, nutty goodness split between the chocolate and nougat layers for balanced flavor.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Adds silkiness and helps bring the nougat layer together.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness to balance the richer ingredients and create the perfect fudge texture.
- 1/4 cup evaporated milk: Brings moisture and smoothness to the nougat, essential for that soft consistency.
- 1 (7 oz) jar marshmallow creme: Adds fluff and lightness to the nougat layer for melt-in-your-mouth softness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet and nutty flavors without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A sweet fragrant note that lifts the entire recipe.
- 1½ cups salted peanuts (or chopped roasted peanuts): Crunch and saltiness that make this fudge irresistible.
- 1 (11 oz) bag caramels, unwrapped: Golden, gooey caramel to layer on top of the nougat for that signature Snickers feel.
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream: Smooths out the caramel, giving it that luscious, pourable texture for the topping.
How to Make Snickers Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Chocolate Layer
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil. This helps your fudge release easily when it’s time to cut and serve. Next, melt 2 cups of milk chocolate chips with 1/4 cup of your peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl using short 30-second bursts. Stir after each to ensure a silky smooth mix. Once melted, spread this chocolate layer evenly in the pan and pop it in the fridge to chill. This forms a firm base for your layers, so it’s important to get a nice even spread.
Step 2: Create the Nougat Layer
While the chocolate is chilling, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add sugar and evaporated milk, stirring continuously until the mixture comes to a rolling boil. Let it boil for about 5 minutes while stirring to reach the perfect thickness and sweetness. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the marshmallow creme along with the remaining 1/4 cup peanut butter, salt, and vanilla extract. Fold in the salted peanuts to add that signature crunch. Spread this heavenly nougat over your chilled chocolate layer, then return the whole pan to the fridge.
Step 3: Top with Caramel
In another microwave-safe bowl, melt the unwrapped caramels together with heavy cream. Use the same 30-second intervals and stir frequently until the caramel is smooth and velvety. Pour this caramel layer over the nougat and spread evenly with a spatula. Chill again for 10 minutes to let the caramel layer set but remain soft and gooey.
Step 4: Finish with an Optional Extra Chocolate Layer
For an extra chocolate punch, melt another 1½ cups of chocolate chips with 2 tablespoons of peanut butter just like you did the first time. Pour this final layer over the caramel and return the entire pan to the fridge. Let it chill for at least two hours until firm and fully set. This last touch seals in all those incredible flavors and textures before you cut into your Snickers Fudge Recipe masterpiece.
How to Serve Snickers Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
When it comes to garnishing your Snickers Fudge Recipe, keep it simple but effective. A light sprinkle of chopped peanuts on top before the final chocolate layer sets adds visual appeal and extra crunch. You could also dust a tiny bit of sea salt for a sophisticated sweet-salty contrast that will wow your friends and family.
Side Dishes
This fudge is perfect on its own but pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce for an indulgent dessert experience. For a beverage pairing, try a strong cup of coffee or creamy milk to balance the rich sweetness of the fudge.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your Snickers Fudge into small squares and arrange them on a pretty plate lined with decorative parchment paper or colorful doilies for a party platter. You can also wrap individual pieces in festive cellophane bags tied with a ribbon—these make charming homemade gifts that everyone will appreciate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Snickers fudge keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to one week. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain the fudge’s moist and creamy texture while keeping it fresh and flavorful.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Snickers Fudge Recipe around for longer, freeze the tightly wrapped squares for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve that perfect fudge consistency.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat fudge before eating; however, if you prefer it a bit softer, leave the squares at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes or microwave briefly on low power for about 10 seconds, but be careful not to melt them down completely.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add even more texture to your fudge. Just keep in mind the overall consistency might be slightly more varied, but it will definitely be delicious.
Is there a substitute for marshmallow creme?
You can use mini marshmallows melted down as a substitute, stirring them into the warm sugar and butter mixture until fully blended. This works well if you don’t have marshmallow creme on hand.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free Snickers Fudge Recipe, swap butter for a plant-based option and use suitable dairy-free chocolate chips, cream, and evaporated milk alternatives. The flavors will still shine through beautifully.
What is the best way to cut the fudge?
For clean slices, let the fudge sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before cutting. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to avoid sticky edges.
Can I add other nuts or mix-ins?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with pecans, walnuts, or even dried fruits. Just be cautious not to overpower the classic Snickers flavor profile that makes this recipe so special.
Final Thoughts
This Snickers Fudge Recipe is a true celebration of everything we love about candy bars but elevated into a homemade treat that’s so worth every spoonful. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, a special occasion, or just because, it’s surprisingly simple and tremendously satisfying. Give it a try—you’re going to enjoy sharing this sweet treasure as much as eating it yourself!
Print
Snickers Fudge Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 25 small squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Snickers Fudge recipe combines rich layers of milk chocolate, creamy peanut butter, marshmallow nougat, salted peanuts, and luscious caramel to create a decadent, no-bake treat reminiscent of the classic candy bar. Perfect for chocolate lovers seeking an easy and indulgent dessert, this fudge is chilled to set and cut into small squares for sharing.
Ingredients
Chocolate Layer
- 2 cups milk chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Nougat Layer
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1 (7 oz) jar marshmallow creme
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter (remaining)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups salted peanuts (or chopped roasted peanuts)
Creamy Caramel Layer
- 1 (11 oz) bag caramels, unwrapped
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Optional Top Chocolate Layer
- 1½ cups milk chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
Instructions
- Prepare pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the fudge after chilling.
- Make chocolate base: Melt 2 cups of milk chocolate chips together with 1/4 cup peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth. Pour this mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Chill in the refrigerator to set while preparing the next layer.
- Prepare nougat layer: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup unsalted butter. Stir in 1 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup evaporated milk. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly, and let it boil for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 7 oz marshmallow creme, remaining 1/4 cup peanut butter, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Fold in 1½ cups salted or roasted peanuts. Spread this nougat mixture evenly over the chilled chocolate base. Return to the fridge to set.
- Create caramel layer: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 11 oz unwrapped caramels with 2 tablespoons heavy cream in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth and creamy. Pour the caramel over the nougat layer and spread evenly. Chill for about 10 minutes to set.
- Optional top chocolate layer: For an extra chocolate topping, melt 1½ cups milk chocolate chips with 2 tablespoons peanut butter in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Pour this mixture over the set caramel and chill the entire fudge for at least 2 hours until fully firm.
- Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan. Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing into 25 small squares. Store leftovers in the refrigerator up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
- Allow fudge to rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before cutting to ensure easier slicing without cracking.
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For longer storage, freeze fudge pieces in individual wraps and thaw before serving.
- Use salted peanuts for authentic Snickers flavor or roasted unsalted peanuts for a milder taste.
