Dec 20, 2023, Updated Mar 10, 2024
Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
This 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge is packed with peanut butter flavor and is perfect for the holiday season as an easy no-bake treat. It’s also great to give as a gift to peanut butter lovers (hi, it’s me!) and makes a tasty addition to a cookie plate or box.
Incredibly Simple: With just two ingredients, this recipe couldn’t be easier. It’s perfect for busy days or when you need a quick dessert solution. Delightfully Creamy: The combination of peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk creates a rich, creamy texture that melts in your mouth. All You Need is a Microwave: This fudge comes together in one bowl in the microwave (with a stovetop option). No finicky candy thermometer required, this microwave peanut butter fudge recipe couldn’t be easier.
Here’s What You Need
Creating delicious peanut butter fudge is easy with just a couple of ingredients, a few simple variations, and some basic kitchen tools.
2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge Ingredients
Let’s look at what each ingredient does in this recipe:
Creamy Peanut Butter: Forms the base of the fudge, providing a rich, nutty flavor. Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and a thick, creamy texture without finicky candy-making techniques.
Variations and Substitutions
Personalize your fudge with these easy tweaks:
Firmer Fudge: This is a soft creamy fudge with the texture of a soft caramel. I love this texture, but it’s best served cold from the fridge. If you’d like to store it at room temperature or give it away in cookie boxes, add 1 cup of peanut butter chips or white chocolate chips to set it up firmer. Crunchy Peanut Butter: For a bit of texture, use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy. Chocolate Chips: Mix or melt in 1 cup chocolate chips for a chocolate peanut butter version. Toppings: Sprinkle sea salt, mini chocolate chips, chopped Reese peanut butter cups or chopped nuts on top before chilling for added crunch.
Grab these Tools
Make sure you have these tools on hand for a smooth fudge-making process:
8×8 Inch Baking Pan: Ideal size for setting the fudge. Parchment Paper: For lining the pan and easy fudge removal. Microwave-Safe Bowl: If using the microwave method. Medium Saucepan: Needed for the stovetop method. Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For stirring and spreading the fudge mixture. Sharp Knife: To cut the fudge into squares after it sets.
How to This Make Peanut Butter 2 Ingredient Fudge Recipe: An Easy Guide
This 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge recipe is a breeze to make, offering a deliciously creamy treat that’s perfect for special occasions but easy enough for a weekday craving.
Preparing the Pan
Line the Pan: Start by lining an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy fudge removal later.
Combining the Ingredients
Microwave Method: In a microwave-safe bowl, mix together creamy peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk. Microwave the mixture for 2 minutes at 50% power, then stir until smooth. Microwave again on high power for 1 minute and stir until it becomes thick and fudgy. Stovetop Method: Alternatively, combine peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium-low, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and thickens.
Setting the Fudge
Transfer to Pan: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Chill: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours or until it’s firm enough to slice.
Slicing and Serving
Cut the Fudge: Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut it into squares of your desired size. Serve: Enjoy the fudge as a delicious treat or a sweet snack.
Follow these simple steps for an effortless and delightful 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge, a perfect way to satisfy your sweet cravings!
Make Ahead and Storage for this Easy Fudge Recipe
Efficiently plan and store your 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge to enjoy it at its best.
Advance Preparation: You can make this fudge a few days before you need it, perfect for planning ahead for events. Room Temperature Storage: Store the fudge in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to consume it within a few days. Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator. It can last up to 2 weeks. Freezing Option: Freeze the fudge for up to 3 months. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. Thawing: If frozen, thaw the fudge in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
How to Serve This 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
While chocolate fudge and other candy is best served at room temperature, this fudge has a softer texture and is best served straight from the fridge. If served at room temperature, it will be soft like homemade caramel. If you would like to make a peanut butter fudge that is firmer at room temperature, add 1 cup peanut butter chips or white chocolate chips with the peanut butter.
Toppings and Add-Ins for Peanut Butter Fudge
Enhance your fudge with these simple yet delightful additions:
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a classic chocolate-peanut butter combo. Nut Toppings: Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or pecans on top before the fudge sets. Sea Salt: A light sprinkle of sea salt can balance the sweetness and add a gourmet touch.
5 Common Mistakes When Making 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge
Here are the most frequent mix-ups to avoid when making 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge:
Final Notes, Pro Tips + Science-Based Secrets
Unlock the full potential of your 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge with these key takeaways:
Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality creamy peanut butter for the best flavor and texture. Microwave Watch: Heat in intervals and stir in between to avoid overheating the mixture. Smooth Stirring: Ensure the mixture is completely smooth before transferring it to the pan. Chill Thoroughly: Let the fudge set in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours for perfect firmness. Clean Cutting: Dip your knife in hot water before slicing the fudge for clean, even cuts. Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with add-ins like vanilla extract or a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Texture Variations: For a crunchier texture, consider using crunchy peanut butter or adding chopped nuts. Storage Know-How: Store in an airtight container to keep the fudge fresh and delicious. Freezing Tips: Wrap individual pieces of fudge in wax paper before freezing to prevent them from sticking together. Serving Suggestion: Serve at room temperature for a softer fudge or straight from the fridge for a firmer texture.
Just skimming through? Here are some quick answers to the commonly-asked questions about 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge: Just skimming through? Here are some quick answers to the commonly-asked questions about 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge: What is peanut butter fudge made of?Peanut butter fudge is typically made of peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk, creating a creamy, sweet treat. Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?Using natural peanut butter can change the texture as it’s often oilier, but it can still work; you might just need to adjust the chilling time. Is it possible to make this fudge with almond or coconut condensed milk?Yes, you can use almond milk condensed milk for a dairy-free version, though the texture may vary slightly. How can I tell when the fudge is set and ready to cut?The fudge is ready to cut when it’s firm to the touch and doesn’t stick to your finger. Can I add chocolate to this recipe?Definitely! Melt 2 cups of chocolate into the mixture with the peanut butter for a chocolate peanut butter twist. How long does this fudge last at room temperature?It can last at room temperature for a few days, but for longer storage, refrigeration is recommended. Is it necessary to line the pan with parchment paper?Lining the pan with parchment paper makes it easier to remove and cut the fudge, but you can alternatively use foil or just grease the pan. Why won’t my 2-ingredient fudge set?If your fudge isn’t setting, it might be due to underheating the mixture or not chilling it long enough. What can I do with peanut butter fudge that didn’t harden?If your fudge didn’t harden, you can try reheating then chilling it again. Melt in 1 cup peanut butter chips, white chocolate chips or regular chocolate chips if you’d like to guarantee a firmer texture. What makes peanut butter fudge crumbly?Peanut butter fudge becomes crumbly if it’s overcooked or if the ingredients weren’t properly combined. Here are some of my other favorite simple dessert recipes:
Foolproof 2 Ingredient Fudge Cookie Dough Bites Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares No Bake Chocolate Tart 3 Ingredient Chocolate Truffles
