Peanut Butter Fudge
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!
You may also enjoy Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats, Salted Caramel Pretzel Fudge, Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies, and Salted Malted Crispy Chocolate Chip Cookies.
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.
Recipe
Peanut Butter Fudge

You only need 4 ingredients to make this easy peanut butter fudge recipe! The fudge is creamy, rich, and loaded with peanut butter flavor! The perfect easy treat for the holidays or any time!
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
- 1
Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. Set the pan aside.
- 2
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.
- 3
Add the confectioner’s sugar, a little at a time, and stir until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract. The mixture will be thick.
- 4
Press the mixture into the prepared pan and spread with a spatula until even and smooth. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt, if using.
- 5
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.
- 6
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.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calorie breakdown
How this was calculated — 5 of 5 ingredients matched
Nutrition information is automatically calculated from USDA FoodData Central, so should only be used as an approximation. Actual values may vary depending on the ingredients, brands, and preparation methods used.
Open in analyzerKeyword: candy, dessert, gluten-free, No-Cook, vegetarian
This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy.
Share this recipe
You Might Also Like
View All →About the Author
NutriforksNutriForks is a home-cooking site built around two simple ideas: recipes should actually work, and you should know what’s in them. Every recipe pairs clear, tested instructions with a full nutrition breakdown, so healthy, everyday cooking is genuinely easy.







