Sometimes, dessert cravings strike, and you need something sweet, simple, and quick. Enter 3-ingredient peanut butter fudge! This no-bake treat is so easy to make, you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried it before. With just three ingredients and a few minutes of prep time, you can create a rich, creamy fudge that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a party, making holiday treats, or just looking for a quick way to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe has you covered. The best part? It requires zero fancy equipment, no baking, and minimal cleanup. You get maximum flavor with minimal effort—what’s not to love?
In this post, I’ll walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips for the perfect fudge, fun variations, and FAQs to ensure your fudge turns out flawless every time.
Check out this recipe for crispy peanut butter cookies for a sweet and crunchy treat!
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Why You’ll Love This 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge
If you’re a fan of peanut butter, this fudge will quickly become one of your favorite recipes. Here’s why:
- Minimal Ingredients: Just three pantry staples are all you need—no extra shopping required!
- Quick and No-Bake: There’s no need to turn on your oven or spend hours in the kitchen. This fudge comes together in about 10 minutes, plus chill time.
- Creamy and Rich: The texture is smooth and velvety, with a bold peanut butter flavor that melts in your mouth.
- Perfect for Sharing: It’s a great gift idea for the holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion. It’s also ideal for potlucks or dessert tables.
- Customizable: You can easily add toppings, mix-ins, or drizzle with chocolate to make it your own. The possibilities are endless!
This fudge is so simple, it’s practically foolproof. Even if you’re new to the kitchen, you’ll find success with this recipe.
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Ingredients for 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge
This simple recipe requires just three ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen:
1. Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is the star of this recipe, giving the fudge its bold flavor and creamy texture. Here are a few tips for choosing the best peanut butter:
- Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth finish, or opt for chunky peanut butter if you like bits of peanut throughout your fudge.
- Avoid natural peanut butter with oil separation, as it can affect the consistency and make the fudge grainy or oily. Stick to regular brands like Jif or Skippy for the best results.
2. Sweetened Condensed Milk
This ingredient adds sweetness and a smooth, velvety texture to the fudge. Be sure to use sweetened condensed milk, not evaporated milk—they’re very different products. Sweetened condensed milk is thick and sweet, while evaporated milk is unsweetened and thinner.
3. White Chocolate Chips
White chocolate chips provide the creamy base for the fudge and complement the peanut butter perfectly. High-quality white chocolate chips (like Ghirardelli or Nestlé) will give the best flavor and texture. If you don’t have white chocolate chips, chopped white chocolate bars work just as well.
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How to Make 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge
This recipe is so easy, you’ll have it ready in no time. Here’s the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. This step is essential to prevent the fudge from sticking and makes it much easier to lift out for slicing later.
Step 2: Melt the Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Heat over low to medium heat, stirring constantly, until the chocolate chips are fully melted and the mixture is smooth. Be patient and keep the heat low to avoid scorching the chocolate.
Step 3: Add the Peanut Butter
Once the mixture is smooth and combined, remove it from the heat and stir in the peanut butter. Mix until fully incorporated. The mixture should be thick, creamy, and evenly blended.
Step 4: Pour and Spread
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and use a spatula to spread it out evenly. Smooth the top for a polished finish.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Place the dish in the refrigerator and let the fudge chill for at least 2–3 hours, or until firm. For best results, let it chill overnight.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once the fudge is set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift it out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and slice it into squares or rectangles. Serve and enjoy!
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Tips for Perfect 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge
Even with such a simple recipe, a few tips can ensure your fudge turns out perfectly every time:
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: With just three ingredients, the quality matters. Choose a good brand of peanut butter and white chocolate chips for the best flavor and texture.
- Low Heat is Key: Melt the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk over low to medium heat. High heat can cause the chocolate to seize or burn, which will ruin the fudge.
- Stir Constantly: Keep stirring while melting the chocolate and condensed milk to ensure a smooth, even mixture.
- Line Your Pan: Always line your pan with parchment paper. This makes it easy to remove the fudge and ensures clean, smooth edges when slicing.
- Be Patient While Chilling: Let the fudge chill completely in the refrigerator before slicing. If it’s not firm enough, it can fall apart when you cut it.
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Fun Variations of 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge
This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:
1. Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge
Swirl melted dark or milk chocolate into the peanut butter mixture for a marbled effect and a deeper chocolate flavor.
2. Crunchy Fudge
Add chopped peanuts, almonds, or pretzels for an extra crunch. Stir them in after combining the peanut butter and melted mixture.
3. Salted Peanut Butter Fudge
Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the fudge before chilling for a sweet and salty flavor combo.
4. Festive Holiday Fudge
Top the fudge with crushed candy canes, red and green sprinkles, or mini M&Ms for a festive touch. Perfect for holiday gifting!
5. Drizzled Fudge
Once the fudge has set, drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over the top for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
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Storing and Freezing Peanut Butter Fudge
Storing
To keep your peanut butter fudge fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps preserve its creamy texture and flavor. For best results, layer the fudge pieces with wax or parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. Properly stored, your fudge will stay delicious for up to 2 weeks. Remember to keep the container tightly sealed to avoid absorbing any fridge odors that might affect the taste.
Freezing
Peanut butter fudge is perfect for freezing, making it an excellent make-ahead treat. To freeze, wrap each piece individually in wax paper or plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container. This extra layer of protection keeps your fudge fresh and prevents freezer burn. Properly frozen, the fudge can last up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy, remove the fudge from the freezer and let it thaw slowly in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the fudge’s creamy texture. For quicker enjoyment, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, but refrigeration is best to avoid any unwanted changes in texture.
With these simple storage and freezing tips, you can enjoy your peanut butter fudge whenever you like—whether it’s for a quick snack, a holiday treat, or a surprise for guests.
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FAQs About 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge
1. Can I use natural peanut butter?
It’s not recommended, as natural peanut butter with oil separation can affect the consistency of the fudge. Stick with regular creamy or chunky peanut butter for the best results.
2. Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate chips?
Yes, but it will change the flavor and color of the fudge. White chocolate pairs best with peanut butter for a creamy, sweet result, but dark or milk chocolate will add a richer, bolder flavor.
3. How do I know when the fudge is ready to slice?
The fudge should be completely firm and cold to the touch after chilling in the refrigerator. If it’s still soft, let it chill for an additional hour or two.
4. Can I make this fudge vegan?
Yes! Use vegan white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed coconut milk as substitutes. Make sure your peanut butter is also vegan-friendly.
5. What’s the best way to cut fudge neatly?
Use a sharp knife and run it under hot water before slicing. Wipe the blade clean between cuts for neat, even squares.
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Final Thoughts
3-ingredient peanut butter fudge is proof that simplicity can lead to greatness. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a decadent, creamy treat that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying at home. Whether you’re making it for holidays, potlucks, or as a quick dessert, this recipe will never let you down.
The best part? It’s endlessly customizable. From chocolate swirls to crunchy mix-ins, you can make it your own without adding any extra hassle. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead treat that stores beautifully.
Next time you’re craving something sweet, skip the complicated recipes and grab your peanut butter, white chocolate chips, and sweetened condensed milk. In just a few steps, you’ll have a batch of rich, velvety fudge ready to impress. Happy no-baking!