Payday Fudge Recipe

If you’re anything like me and have a soft spot for quick, no-fuss sweets that pack tons of flavor, you’re going to absolutely love this Payday Fudge Recipe. It’s one of those treats that’s ridiculously easy to whip up, yet feels indulgent and special — the perfect combo of creamy white chocolate, peanut butter, and the classic Payday candy bar flavors with peanuts and candy corn. Trust me, once you try making this, it’ll become your go-to when you want something sweet, festive, and a little bit nostalgic all at once.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Payday Fudge Recipe really lies in how simple ingredients come together to create that irresistible creamy and crunchy combo. I always recommend using quality white chocolate chips because they melt smoothly and give that beautiful texture we want.

• White chocolate chips: Use good quality to avoid graininess and ensure smooth melting.
• Creamy peanut butter: Creamy works best to blend seamlessly without lumps.
• Sweetened condensed milk: This adds creaminess and just the right amount of sweetness.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor, giving a lovely warm note.
• Candy corn: Divided usage lets you fold in some and sprinkle some on top for texture and fun color.
• Peanuts (regular or honey roasted): Choose your favorite—honey roasted adds a little extra sweetness and crunch.

Variations

One of the things I love about this Payday Fudge Recipe is how easy it is to personalize. Whether you want to swap out peanuts for another nut, or adjust the sweetness level, it’s very forgiving.

• Nut substitution: I’ve tried cashews and pecans before, and while peanuts have that authentic Payday feel, these nuts bring a tasty twist.
• Mix in chocolate chips: Adding a handful of dark or milk chocolate chips inside the fudge boosts richness—definitely a personal favorite move!
• Skip the candy corn: For a less sweet, more traditional peanut butter fudge, just leave out the candy corn and bump up the peanuts.
• Use natural peanut butter: I’ve used natural peanut butter too; just stir a bit longer to ensure it melts smoothly without oils separating.

How to Make Payday Fudge Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by lining an 8×8 or 9×9 inch pan with foil and lightly spray it with cooking spray. This makes removing the fudge a breeze later, and keeps everything neat. I like to use foil with a non-stick spray so the edges don’t break when I cut into squares.

Step 2: Melt and Stir Your Fudge Base

In a medium saucepan, combine your white chocolate chips, creamy peanut butter, and sweetened condensed milk. Heat over low heat, stirring often to prevent scorching. You’ll see it slowly melt into a silky mixture—this is where patience pays off. If you rush or heat too high, the chocolate can seize, so low and slow is key.

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Mix in Crunch

Once everything is melted and smooth, remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Then quickly fold in 1 cup each of candy corn and peanuts. This step is all about speed because as the fudge begins to cool, it becomes harder to mix smoothly. You’re locking in those crunchy, sweet bites right inside the fudge.

Step 4: Press and Decorate

Pour the fudge into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Then sprinkle the remaining candy corn and peanuts on top. Press them lightly into the fudge so they stick as it sets. My family goes crazy for this colorful, crunchy top—it just makes the fudge look as good as it tastes.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Let the fudge come to room temperature, then pop it in the fridge to chill and fully set—this usually takes a couple of hours. Once firm, lift it out using the foil and cut into squares. That’s it! You’ll love how easy it is to slice smooth, creamy fudge embedded with crunchy chunks.

How to Serve Payday Fudge Recipe

Garnishes

I like to keep it simple and use extra candy corn and peanuts on top, like in the original recipe. It adds a festive, colorful pop and a satisfying crunch right at first bite. If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt takes it to the next level.

Side Dishes

This fudge is pretty rich on its own, but when I serve it, I sometimes pair it with a cup of coffee or hot tea to balance the sweetness. It also makes for a fun addition to a holiday dessert board alongside cookies and fruit.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I’ve cut the fudge into fun bite-sized cubes and placed them in mini cupcake liners for easy grabbing. Wrapping squares in cellophane tied with colorful ribbon makes adorable little gifts, especially around holidays or as a last-minute treat for friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftover Payday fudge in an airtight container at room temperature, and it stays perfectly soft yet firm for up to a week. Just be sure to keep it away from heat or direct sunlight so it doesn’t get too melty.

Freezing

Freezing works great if you want to make a batch ahead for holidays. I wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge—texture stays just as good.

Reheating

I usually don’t reheat fudge since it’s best served chilled or at room temp, but if it’s too firm out of the freezer, letting it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes does the trick. Avoid microwaving, as that can cause the white chocolate or peanut butter to separate.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I’m genuinely thrilled every time I make this Payday Fudge Recipe because it brings out all those cozy, nostalgic flavors with zero stress. Whether you’re whipping this up for a party, a holiday treat, or just because you need a sweet pick-me-up, this recipe never disappoints. Give it a try—you’ll end up making it over and over, just like me!

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