Prepare your pan: Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy lifting. Lightly spray the parchment if you like.
Make a quick double boiler (stovetop method): Add an inch of water to a small pot and bring it to a gentle simmer. Place a heatproof bowl on top, making sure the bottom doesn’t touch the water.
Melt the base: To the bowl, add the butter and white chocolate chips. Stir often until mostly melted and smooth.
Add the condensed milk: Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and keep stirring over low heat until everything is silky and well combined.
Finish with peanut butter: Remove the bowl from heat. Add the peanut butter (and vanilla and salt if using). Stir until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy.
Pour and level: Scrape the mixture into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top if you want a little crunch.
Chill to set: Refrigerate for 2–3 hours, or until firm enough to slice cleanly.
Cut and serve: Use the parchment handles to lift the fudge onto a cutting board. Warm a sharp knife under hot water, dry it, then cut into 1–1.5-inch squares.
Microwave option: In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt butter and white chocolate in 20–30 second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth. Stir in condensed milk, then peanut butter, and proceed as above.