4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge is a quick, creamy, and delicious treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With just four simple ingredients and no baking required, this rich fudge comes together effortlessly, making it ideal for parties, gifting, or a quick dessert fix.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Simple: No baking, no candy thermometer, just easy mixing and chilling.
- Minimal Ingredients: Only four pantry staples are needed.
- Quick Prep: Ready to chill in under 10 minutes.
- Perfectly Creamy: Smooth, rich, and melts in your mouth.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Butter
- Vanilla extract
Directions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Melt the Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and peanut butter together, stirring frequently. Add the sweetened condensed milk and mix until smooth and fully combined.
- Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour and Spread: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Chill: Refrigerate for 2-3 hours or until the fudge is firm.
- Cut and Serve: Lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment overhang, cut into squares, and serve.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 16 squares
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Chill Time: 2-3 hours
- Total Time: Approximately 3 hours 5 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge: Add 1 cup of melted chocolate chips to the mixture before pouring into the pan.
- Nutty Crunch: Stir in chopped peanuts for added texture.
- Swirled Fudge: Drizzle melted chocolate or white chocolate over the top and swirl with a toothpick before chilling.
- Sea Salt Topping: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for a sweet and salty combination.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free sweetened condensed milk and vegan butter.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: No reheating is needed; serve directly from the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly less firm. Stir well to ensure the oil is fully incorporated before using.
Can I make this fudge in the microwave?
Yes, melt the butter and peanut butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, then mix in the condensed milk and vanilla.
How do I make the fudge firmer?
Use a bit less sweetened condensed milk, or chill longer for a firmer texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan instead of an 8×8-inch one.
Is this fudge gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients are gluten-free (check the labels on condensed milk and vanilla).
What’s the best way to cut fudge cleanly?
Use a sharp knife warmed in hot water, then wipe clean between cuts for smooth edges.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Absolutely! It adds a delightful crunch to the fudge.
Why is my fudge too soft?
It may not have chilled long enough or the peanut butter ratio may be too high. Adjust and chill as needed.
How long does this fudge last?
Stored properly in the fridge, it stays fresh for up to a week.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips?
Yes, fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or even mini marshmallows for extra fun!
Conclusion
4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge is the perfect combination of simplicity and indulgence. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, this no-fuss dessert is a go-to recipe for any occasion. Customize it to your liking or enjoy it as-is—either way, it’s sure to satisfy your sweet cravings!
Print
4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 16–20 squares 1x
- Category: Dessert, Candy
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Description
This 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge is creamy, rich, and so easy to make! Perfect for a quick dessert or holiday treat, it requires minimal effort and yields maximum flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
Melt the Peanut Butter and Butter:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the peanut butter and butter. Microwave on high for 1–2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until melted and smooth.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
Mix in the Powdered Sugar:
- Gradually add the powdered sugar to the melted mixture, stirring until fully combined and smooth. The mixture will become thick and dough-like.
Prepare the Pan:
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Press the fudge mixture evenly into the pan using a spatula or your hands.
Chill and Set:
- Refrigerate the fudge for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
Serve:
- Remove the fudge from the pan using the parchment overhang and cut it into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle chopped peanuts, mini chocolate chips, or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top before chilling for extra flair.
- Variations: Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture or substitute almond or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor.