01 -
Let's start with that chocolatey foundation! Grab a microwave-safe bowl and toss in your milk chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each one, until everything's melted together into a smooth, glossy mixture. Don't rush this process - chocolate can burn in a flash! Once it's perfectly smooth, pour it into a 9×13 pan that you've lined with foil and greased (trust me, you'll thank yourself later when it's time to remove the fudge). Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer, making sure to reach all the corners. Pop this in the refrigerator to chill while you work on the next layer.
02 -
Now for that classic Snickers nougat layer! In a medium saucepan, melt your butter over medium heat. Once it's melted, add the sugar and evaporated milk, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Bring this mixture to a boil and let it cook for a full 5 minutes, stirring constantly - this is not the time to check your phone! The mixture will thicken slightly and turn a beautiful caramel color. Remove it from the heat and quickly stir in the marshmallow crème, peanut butter, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in those chopped peanuts - they add the perfect crunch that makes this fudge so special. Pour this delicious mixture over your chilled chocolate layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Back into the refrigerator it goes to set up!
03 -
Once your nougat layer has firmed up (give it at least 30 minutes), it's time for that irresistible caramel layer! In a saucepan over low heat, combine the caramel cubes and heavy cream. Stir constantly as they melt together - your arm might get a little tired, but it's totally worth it! The cream makes the caramel perfectly pourable while keeping it nice and chewy once set. When you've got a smooth, lump-free mixture, pour it over the nougat layer and spread it quickly before it starts to set. Pop the pan back in the refrigerator to chill until the caramel is firm enough to touch without leaving a fingerprint.
04 -
For the crowning glory, we're going to repeat the first layer! Just like before, melt together the milk chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and peanut butter until smooth and glossy. Pour this over the set caramel layer, tilting the pan if needed to get an even coating. The warm chocolate will slightly melt the top of the caramel, creating that perfect bond between layers. Make sure to work quickly before the caramel gets too soft! Give the top a few gentle taps on the counter to smooth out any air bubbles. Now for the hardest part - waiting! Refrigerate the whole thing until completely firm, at least 2 hours but preferably overnight.
05 -
When your fudge is fully set, it's time for the big reveal! Lift the entire block out of the pan using the foil edges as handles. Place it on a cutting board and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes (this prevents the layers from separating when you cut). With a sharp knife warmed under hot water and dried (wipe the knife clean and rewarm between cuts), slice your fudge into squares. I find that 1-inch squares are perfect since this fudge is so rich and decadent. Store your homemade Snickers fudge in an airtight container with wax paper between layers. If you can resist eating it all at once, it will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks!