
This tiger butter fudge transforms simple ingredients into a spectacular holiday treat that looks as impressive as it tastes. The beautiful marbled pattern of peanut butter, white chocolate, and dark chocolate creates a visual stunner that everyone will think took hours to make.
I first made this tiger butter fudge when I needed a last minute treat for a holiday cookie exchange. The stunning swirls earned me first place, and now it's the most requested sweet in our family from Thanksgiving through New Year's.
Ingredients
- White chocolate chips: Form the creamy base that carries the peanut butter flavor throughout while setting firmly when chilled
- Creamy peanut butter: Adds that classic nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate use a commercial brand like Jif or Skippy for the best texture
- Semi sweet chocolate chips: Create the dramatic dark swirls that give tiger butter its name choose good quality chocolate for the richest flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Pan:
- Line a 9x13 baking dish with parchment paper and spray with non stick spray. This ensures easy removal after the fudge sets completely.
- Melt White Chocolate:
- Place white chocolate chips in a heat safe bowl and microwave for 30 seconds. Stir thoroughly and continue microwaving in 20 second intervals until completely smooth. Be patient and avoid overheating or the chocolate will seize.
- Combine With Peanut Butter:
- Add peanut butter to the melted white chocolate and stir until completely incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and uniform with no streaks of peanut butter visible.
- Create The Base:
- Pour the white chocolate peanut butter mixture into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly to all edges and corners, creating a smooth surface for your design.
- Melt Dark Chocolate:
- In a separate heat safe bowl, melt the semi sweet chocolate chips using the same careful method 30 seconds followed by 20 second intervals with thorough stirring between each.
- Create The Tiger Stripes:
- Drizzle the melted dark chocolate in random patterns across the white chocolate layer. Be creative with your design more drizzles mean more dramatic swirls.
- Swirl The Pattern:
- Run a knife or skewer through both chocolate layers to create beautiful marble patterns. Pull the tool through in both directions for the classic tiger butter look, but avoid overmixing.
- Chill And Set:
- Refrigerate the pan for several hours until completely firm. The fudge needs this time to set properly so resist the temptation to check it too early.

The white chocolate is truly the canvas of this dessert. I discovered that using premium white chocolate chips made a remarkable difference in the final taste. My grandmother always said quality ingredients make quality desserts, and with so few components in this recipe, each one matters tremendously.
Storage Tips
Tiger butter stays fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The cold temperature maintains the perfect firm texture and prevents any softening or melting. If you need to layer pieces for storage, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. This fudge also freezes beautifully for up to three months wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Perfect Variations
While the classic recipe is outstanding, you can customize your tiger butter in countless ways. Try substituting almond butter or cookie butter for the peanut butter. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle sea salt flakes on top before setting, or add holiday sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet. During Halloween, I create orange and black tiger butter by using orange colored white chocolate with dark chocolate swirls.
Gifting Your Tiger Butter
This beautiful fudge makes an impressive homemade gift. Cut into squares and arrange in decorative tins lined with parchment paper. For a special presentation, cut your tiger butter into triangles and stack them in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon. Include a handwritten recipe card with your gift as everyone will certainly ask for the recipe after tasting it. I started gifting these to neighbors during the holidays, and now they begin asking about my tiger butter in early November.

Frequently Asked Questions
- → What is tiger butter made of?
Tiger butter is made with white chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and semi-sweet chocolate, swirled together for a delicious dessert.
- → How do I create the swirl pattern?
Pour melted semi-sweet chocolate over the base and run a knife or skewer through the mixture to create swirls.
- → How long does tiger butter take to set?
Set the tiger butter in the fridge for several hours until firm before slicing into bars.
- → Can I substitute the peanut butter?
Yes, you can use almond butter or another nut butter if preferred for a different flavor.
- → How should I store tiger butter?
Store tiger butter in the refrigerator to keep it hardened and prevent melting.