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buckeye fudge recipe - featured image

Buckeye Fudge Recipe – Easy Homemade Fall Dessert for Pumpkin Lovers


  • Author: Isabella Russo
  • Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
  • Yield: 36 pieces 1x

Description

This buckeye fudge features rich, chocolatey layers with a creamy peanut butter center, and an optional pumpkin swirl for a seasonal twist. It’s a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for fall gatherings, potlucks, or cozy nights in.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Optional: 1/3 cup pumpkin puree
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • Optional: 1-2 tablespoons milk (if peanut butter layer is too stiff)

Instructions

  1. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting. If using foil, lightly grease it.
  2. In a medium bowl, beat together 1 cup creamy peanut butter and 1/2 cup unsalted butter until smooth and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
  3. Add 2 cups powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until thick and creamy. If the mixture is too stiff, add 1-2 tablespoons milk.
  4. Transfer the peanut butter mixture to the prepared pan and smooth into an even layer.
  5. Optional: In a small bowl, stir together 1/3 cup pumpkin puree and 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice. Drop spoonfuls over the peanut butter base and gently swirl with a toothpick or knife.
  6. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/4 cup peanut butter, and 2 tablespoons butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until melted and smooth (about 1-2 minutes). Alternatively, melt over low heat on the stovetop.
  7. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly with a spatula.
  8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set. For faster chilling, freeze for 45 minutes.
  9. Lift the fudge out using the parchment overhang. Slice into 1-inch squares with a sharp, clean knife, wiping the knife between cuts.
  10. Serve slightly chilled. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.

Notes

For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate chips. The pumpkin swirl is optional but adds a festive fall flavor. Always chill the fudge fully before cutting for neat layers. If chocolate seizes, stir in a teaspoon of vegetable oil. Fudge tastes even better after resting for a day or two.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece (about 1-inch square)
  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 11
  • Fat: 7
  • Carbohydrates: 13
  • Protein: 2

Keywords: buckeye fudge, fall dessert, peanut butter fudge, chocolate fudge, pumpkin fudge, easy fudge, gluten-free dessert, autumn treat, homemade fudge, Thanksgiving dessert