Rich, creamy, and impossibly easy—this no-bake fudge comes together in minutes with just four pantry staples. Made with butter, peanut butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar, it melts in your mouth with a smooth, decadent texture that rivals any candy shop treat. No candy thermometer, no stovetop, no stress—just microwave, stir, chill, and slice!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This isn’t just another fudge—it’s magic in a bowl. Inspired by retro 1970s dessert hacks and modern shortcut cooking, this version skips the stove and sugar syrup drama. With only four ingredients and one bowl, it’s perfect for last-minute gifts, holiday trays, or satisfying a sweet craving fast.
Perfect for:
- Last-minute holiday treats and cookie exchanges
- Fans of Reese’s, peanut butter cups, or Southern candy
- Kids’ baking projects (with adult help for microwaving)
- Make-ahead desserts (it keeps beautifully!)
🍫 "I made this while my kids watched," said one home cook. "They thought I’d bought it from a fancy store—but I mixed it during commercial break!"
Ingredients
Just Four!
- 1 cup (2 sticks / 225g) salted butter, cubed (unsalted works too—add ¼ tsp salt if using)
- 1 cup (260g) creamy peanut butter (Jif or Skippy recommended)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 lb (450g / about 4 cups) powdered sugar, sifted (for lump-free texture)
✅ Optional Upgrade:
- Sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before chilling
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips or chopped peanuts folded in
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Melt Butter & Peanut Butter
In a large microwave-safe bowl:
- Add cubed butter and peanut butter.
- Microwave on high 2 minutes.
- Remove and stir well—mixture will be warm and combined but not fully melted.
✅ Use caution—the bowl will be hot!
2. Melt Until Smooth
- Return to microwave and heat 2 more minutes on high.
- Stir again until completely smooth and glossy.
✅ If needed, heat in 15-second bursts until fully blended.
3. Add Vanilla & Sugar
- Stir in vanilla extract until incorporated.
- Gradually pour in powdered sugar, stirring constantly until fully blended and thickened.
✅ No lumps? That’s good—the texture should be dense and fudgy.
4. Press Into Pan
- Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or plastic wrap (with overhang for easy removal).
- Pour mixture into the pan.
- Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press evenly into corners.
✅ Optional: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt or chocolate drizzle before chilling.
5. Chill Until Set
- Refrigerate 1–2 hours, or until firm and sliceable.
✅ For faster set: Freeze 30–45 minutes.
6. Slice & Serve
- Lift out using parchment or plastic overhang.
- Cut into small squares (about 1-inch) with a sharp knife.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Pair with:
- Coffee, tea, or cold milk
- A festive gift box tied with ribbon
- Alongside graham crackers or pretzels
✅ Leftovers? Store in the fridge—they stay fresh and delicious for days!
You Must Know
- Sift the powdered sugar —prevents clumps and ensures smoothness.
- Don’t skip chilling —warm fudge won’t hold its shape.
- Use full-fat peanut butter —natural/oily versions may cause separation.
- Tastes better the next day! Flavors deepen and texture firms up.
- Freezer-friendly —cool completely and freeze up to 3 months.
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container:
- At room temperature: 2 days (if cool)
- In the fridge: up to 2 weeks
- In the freezer: up to 3 months (thaw in fridge)
✅ Layer with parchment to prevent sticking.
Ingredient Substitutions
Serving Suggestions
- Serve family-style on a holiday tray with candles.
- Great for potlucks—bring the whole batch!
- Double the recipe and freeze half for future joy.
- Package in mini boxes for edible gifts.
Cultural Context
Rooted in American convenience cooking and mid-century dessert trends, this recipe celebrates how simple ingredients—butter, sugar, peanut butter—can become something deeply satisfying. Found at church suppers, creative kitchens, and gift-giving circles alike, it honors the joy of sharing handmade sweetness—even when “handmade” means two minutes in the microwave.
Pro Tips
- Double the recipe? Yes—use a 9×13-inch pan for a thicker batch.
- Want more texture? Fold in chocolate chips, crushed pretzels, or nuts.
- Make ahead: Assemble 1–2 days ahead. Chill until serving.
- Label your dish: People will ask for the recipe.
- Say “ready?” before serving —it’s part of the ritual.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use natural peanut butter?
A: Not recommended—it separates and makes fudge greasy. Stick with shelf-stable brands.
Q: Why did my fudge turn out crumbly?
A: Likely not enough moisture. Ensure full melting and stir well after adding sugar.
Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Yes—if using GF-certified powdered sugar and verifying all ingredients.
Q: Can I make it without a microwave?
A: Absolutely! Melt butter and peanut butter in a double boiler, then proceed.
Q: Can I air fry leftovers?
A: No—but reheat briefly in microwave (5 secs) to soften center.
Allergy Information
Contains: dairy (butter), peanuts, wheat (in some powdered sugars).
Gluten-free option: Use certified GF powdered sugar.
Nut-free: Not safe for nut allergies.
Always check labels—especially on processed peanut butter and sugar.
Nutrition Facts (Per Piece – Approximate)
Based on 36 pieces
- Calories: 140
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 120mg
Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on brands and substitutions. Not intended as medical advice.
This fudge doesn’t shout. It sits quietly in the fridge, cool and inviting, saying everything a great treat should: “Take me slow. Share me. This is good.” That’s how the best ones begin—not with silence, but with peanut butter, patience, and someone who says, “Let’s make it together.”
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