If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s insanely satisfying but wonderfully simple, you’ve got to try this 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe. It’s a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth delight that brings together the rich flavor of peanut butter with the smooth sweetness of powdered sugar, all anchored by buttery goodness. Whether you’re new to making fudge or a seasoned dessert lover, this recipe is a quick game-changer that delivers perfectly every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe is essential and plays a starring role in achieving that perfect creamy texture and rich flavor. You’ll find these staples likely already in your kitchen, making this recipe both accessible and impressive.
- Unsalted Butter: Provides a smooth, creamy base and balances the sweetness with its subtle richness.
- Peanut Butter (smooth): The heart of the fudge, offering that unmistakable nutty flavor and velvety texture.
- Powdered Sugar: Gives the fudge its sweet, delicate texture and ensures it sets just right without any graininess.
How to Make 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch cake pan with parchment paper or buttered foil, making sure the paper or foil hangs over the edges. This overhang is a neat little trick that helps you lift out the fudge easily once it’s set, giving you clean slices without any fuss.
Step 2: Sift the Powdered Sugar
To keep your fudge smooth and lump-free, pour the powdered sugar through a metal sieve and sift it into a bowl. Sifting is a quick step that saves you from encountering any unpleasant clumps that can affect the texture of your final fudge.
Step 3: Melt Butter and Peanut Butter
Using a double boiler, gently melt the butter, stirring occasionally until it’s totally liquid and smooth. Next, add the creamy peanut butter and stir together until you have a silky, uniform mixture. Taking it slow here prevents scorching and keeps the flavors rich and balanced.
Step 4: Stir in the Sugar
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar into your melted mixture and stir consistently until everything is lump-free and completely incorporated. This part takes a couple of minutes, but it’s worth the arm workout for such silky fudge batter.
Step 5: Chill Until Set
Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan, pressing it into all the corners and smoothing the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Pop it into the fridge for 1 to 2 hours, allowing it to firm up into that perfect sliceable texture.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once chilled, lift the fudge out using the parchment or foil overhang. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into 32 bite-sized squares. Tip: dip your knife in hot water and dry it off between cuts to achieve beautifully clean edges every time.
How to Serve 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
Garnishes
While this fudge is divine straight up, adding a simple garnish can elevate the presentation. A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt highlights the peanut butter’s natural richness, or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate adds an extra layer of indulgence. Crushed peanuts on top provide a delightful crunch contrast.
Side Dishes
This fudge pairs wonderfully alongside a hot cup of coffee or rich, creamy milk for a snack that satisfies every craving. For a party spread, serve it with a bowl of fresh berries or alongside warm baked apples to balance the sweetness with a refreshing touch.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking outside the box? Cut the fudge into small cubes and skewer them with fruit, marshmallows, or pretzel sticks for a fun dessert kabob. Or layer pieces between cookies to create peanut butter fudge sandwich bites that disappear faster than you can say delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This fudge stores beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge if you prefer a firmer texture. Keeping it covered will ensure it stays soft, fresh, and ready to satisfy your sweet tooth whenever the craving hits.
Freezing
If you want to keep your stash longer, simply wrap the fudge tightly in plastic wrap and place it inside a freezer-safe container. It freezes well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
Peanut butter fudge generally tastes fantastic chilled, but if you prefer it a little softer, let it sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, which can affect the texture and cause separation.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter in this recipe?
Yes! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to the fudge, giving it a bit of crunch alongside the creamy base. Just be sure your peanut butter is well stirred so it incorporates smoothly.
What if I don’t have a double boiler?
No worries! You can melt the butter carefully in a microwave-safe bowl in short bursts, stirring in between, then mix in the peanut butter immediately to avoid overheating.
Why sift the powdered sugar?
Sifting removes lumps and ensures the sugar blends evenly into the melted butter and peanut butter mixture for a smooth, creamy fudge without gritty bits.
How do I get clean cuts on the fudge?
For clean slices, run a sharp knife under hot water, dry it thoroughly, and then slice through the fudge. Wiping the blade between each cut keeps the edges neat and prevents sticking.
Can I add any flavor variations to this fudge?
Absolutely! Consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract, a dash of cinnamon, or even mixing in mini chocolate chips for a personalized twist on this classic 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe is one of those magical recipes that feels like a treat but is surprisingly easy to whip up anytime. Its buttery, peanut buttery charm will win over friends and family and might just become your go-to dessert to share (or keep all to yourself!). Give it a try and watch how a few simple ingredients transform into pure bliss.
Print3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe
This simple and delicious 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge recipe combines creamy peanut butter, rich unsalted butter, and sweet powdered sugar to create a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth treat. Perfect for peanut butter lovers, this fudge is easy to prepare, requires no baking, and can be made ahead for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 32 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 18 oz smooth peanut butter
- 1 pound powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prep Pan: Line an 8×8-inch cake pan with parchment paper or buttered foil, ensuring there is excess overhang on all sides to easily lift the fudge out later. Butter the pan or foil first for extra non-stick assurance.
- Sift Sugar: Pour the powdered sugar through a metal sieve to remove any lumps and achieve a smooth texture in the fudge.
- Melt Butter & Peanut Butter: Using a double boiler with gently simmering water, melt the unsalted butter while occasionally stirring. Once melted, add the smooth peanut butter and stir until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
- Stir in Sugar: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar to the melted butter and peanut butter mixture. Stir continuously until the mixture is completely lump-free and well blended, which may take a couple of minutes.
- Chill: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan, packing it into the corners and smoothing the top evenly. Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for 1 to 2 hours until the fudge is fully set and firm.
- Slice and Serve: When set, use the parchment or foil overhang to lift the fudge from the pan. Transfer it to a cutting board and slice into 32 bite-sized pieces. For clean cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and dried between each slice.
Notes
- Using a double boiler prevents burning and ensures gentle melting of butter and peanut butter.
- Sifting powdered sugar is important to avoid lumps in the final fudge texture.
- Make sure to chill the fudge completely before cutting to maintain clean slices.
- Store leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- For variation, use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth for added texture.
