Make this easy peanut butter fudge with just 4 ingredients, no bake, no candy thermometer needed! Creamy, rich, and perfect for holidays. Get the recipe!

Why This Peanut Butter Fudge Is My Go-To Holiday Treat

This easy peanut butter fudge is the one I turn to every holiday season. It’s creamy, rich, and full of peanut butter flavor. I’ve tried lots of fudge recipes, but this one is so simple, only 4 ingredients and no candy thermometer needed. It turns out perfect every time. A small piece really satisfies that peanut butter craving. (Ok, I usually end up eating two.)

4 Reasons You’ll Love This Easy Peanut Butter Fudge

Only 4 ingredients, you probably have them in your pantry.
No bake, no candy thermometer, no fuss. Just microwave and stir.
Really creamy and smooth, with rich peanut butter flavor.
Great for holiday gifting or last-minute dessert.

Key Ingredients for Creamy Peanut Butter Fudge

Peanut butter: Use a creamy, commercial brand like Skippy or Jif for best texture. Natural peanut butter can work if well-stirred, but it may yield a drier fudge.
Salted butter: I use salted butter so the fudge doesn’t need extra salt. If you use unsalted, add a pinch of salt to taste.
Confectioner’s sugar: Sift it before adding to avoid lumps. Granulated sugar won’t dissolve properly and will make the fudge gritty.

Kitchen Tools for No-Bake Peanut Butter Fudge

8×8-inch square baking pan
Parchment paper for easy removal
Large microwave-safe bowl
Spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
Sharp knife for cutting

Tips for Making the Best Peanut Butter Fudge

When microwaving the butter and peanut butter, stop and stir halfway through to ensure even melting. Add the confectioner’s sugar gradually, about a third at a time, to avoid clumps. Press the mixture firmly into the pan for an even layer. Chilling the fudge for a full 4 hours gives it the best firm-yet-creamy texture.

Peanut Butter Fudge Variations to Try

Plain peanut butter fudge is already delicious, but if you want to mix it up, try stirring in chopped peanuts for crunch. You can also press chopped peanut butter cups into the top before chilling, they stick nicely. Oreo fans, fold in some crushed Oreos for a cookies-and-cream twist. Or stir in mini marshmallows for a fluffernutter vibe. A drizzle of melted chocolate on top is always a good idea.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Fudge

I love serving this fudge alongside a cup of hot coffee or a cold glass of milk. The salty-sweet combo fits right in on a dessert table. For a nice look, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before the fudge sets. Cut it into small squares and arrange with other holiday treats like cookies or chocolate bark.

Storing Peanut Butter Fudge

Keep the fudge in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 2 weeks. You can eat it cold straight from the fridge, or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.

How to Freeze Peanut Butter Fudge

To freeze, wrap individual squares or the whole slab tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag or container. Frozen fudge keeps well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Peanut Butter Fudge FAQs

Can I make peanut butter fudge on the stovetop?

Yes, place the peanut butter and butter in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until melted. Then remove from heat and stir in confectioner’s sugar and vanilla.

Do I have to refrigerate peanut butter fudge?

You can keep it at cool room temperature for a few days, but refrigeration extends its life and keeps it firm. I recommend storing it in the fridge.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

You can, but make sure to stir it really well so it’s smooth. Dry natural peanut butter can result in crumbly fudge. Stick with brands like Skippy or Jif for best results.

Equipment

8x8-inch pan
parchment paper
large microwavable bowl
spatula
sharp knife
refrigerator

Recipe

Peanut Butter Fudge

Pin recipe

Prep: 5 min
Cook: PT0M
Total: 245 min
Servings: 36 servings
Cuisine: American
Course: Dessert

Ingredients

1 cup peanut butter
1 cup salted butter (cut into tablespoon pieces)
3.5 cup confectioner's sugar (sifted)
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
flaky sea salt (for sprinkling on fudge, optional)

Instructions

Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. Set the pan aside.
Place the peanut butter and butter in a large microwavable bowl. Microwave on high for 2 minutes. Stir and microwave for 1 more minute. Stir until mixture is smooth and creamy.
Add the confectioner’s sugar, a little at a time, and stir until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract. The mixture will be thick.
Press the mixture into the prepared pan and spread with a spatula until even and smooth. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt, if using.
Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for 4 hours or until fudge is firm. When the fudge is set up, use the parchment paper to lift the fudge out of the pan. Use a sharp knife to cut the fudge into small squares and serve.
Store the fudge in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze the fudge. Wrap in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag or freezer container and freeze for up to 2 months.