A silky, rich chocolate–peanut butter fudge that I pull together in minutes with pantry staples. I melt, stir, chill, and slice—then watch it disappear at bake sales, potlucks, or anytime I want a quick, no-bake dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I lean on three simple ingredients to make ultra-creamy fudge without a candy thermometer. I finish the pan with crunchy peanuts and extra chocolate chips (totally optional) for texture and a pretty top. I love that it sets fast in the fridge, slices cleanly, and keeps beautifully for gifting or make-ahead treats.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)

• 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 1 ½ cups peanut butter (creamy works best)

Optional toppings

• peanuts, chopped

• chocolate chips

• chopped peanut butter cups, pecans, or walnuts

Directions

1. Line an 8×8-inch pan with foil, letting the edges overhang so I can lift the fudge out later.

2. In a large microwave-safe bowl, I combine the sweetened condensed milk and chocolate chips. I microwave for 1–2 minutes, stopping to stir every 30 seconds, until smooth and fully melted.

3. I add the peanut butter and stir until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy.

4. I spread the mixture evenly into the prepared pan. I scatter on my desired toppings and gently press them in so they adhere.

5. I refrigerate for about 1 hour, until set.

6. Using the foil overhang, I lift the fudge from the pan and cut it into squares.

Servings And Timing

• Servings: 16 pieces

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 0 minutes

• Total Time: 5 minutes (plus about 1 hour to chill)

Variations

• Peanut Butter Swirl: I reserve 2–3 tablespoons of peanut butter and dollop it over the spread fudge, then swirl with a knife for a marbled look.

• Marshmallow Ribbon: I warm a few tablespoons of marshmallow creme just until fluid and swirl it through before chilling for a fluffernutter vibe.

• Crunch Lovers: I fold ½–1 cup chopped roasted peanuts into the fudge before spreading to add crunch throughout.

• Dark & Salty: I swap in dark chocolate chips and finish with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt.

• Candy-Counter Mix: I stir in chopped peanut butter cups, mini pretzels, or toffee bits for a loaded candy-bar feel.

Storage/Reheating

I store fudge tightly wrapped in plastic or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For a firmer bite or longer storage, I refrigerate it for up to 1 month. To freeze, I wrap pieces well and freeze for up to 3 months; I thaw at room temperature in the container to prevent condensation. Fudge doesn’t need reheating, but if it’s very firm from the fridge, I let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make this without a microwave?

I can. I melt the chocolate chips with the sweetened condensed milk in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of gently simmering water (a double boiler), stirring until smooth, then proceed with the recipe.

2. Does natural peanut butter work?

I can use it, but I stir it very well so the oil is fully incorporated. For the firmest set, I prefer standard creamy peanut butter since it’s more stable and less oily.

3. How do I double the recipe?

I double every ingredient and spread the mixture into a 9×13-inch pan. I watch the melting step closely and stir thoroughly so the center heats evenly.

4. Why didn’t my fudge set firmly?

I likely had too much oil (from very oily peanut butter) or the mixture wasn’t fully melted and emulsified before spreading. I chill it longer, and next time I use a well-stirred or conventional creamy peanut butter and mix until perfectly smooth.

5. How should I cut clean squares?

I chill the fudge until fully set, lift it out by the foil, and use a long sharp knife. I wipe the blade clean between cuts for neat edges.

Conclusion

I keep this three-ingredient chocolate peanut butter fudge in my back pocket for last-minute sweets. It’s fast, fuss-free, endlessly customizable, and slices into giftable squares that always hit the spot.