I’ve been dreaming about this chocolate peanut butter fudge for weeks now, and honestly, it’s worth every calorie. There’s something magical about the way rich chocolate mingles with creamy peanut butter, creating that perfect balance of sweet and slightly salty. You don’t need fancy equipment or pastry skills to nail this recipe, just a few simple ingredients and about 15 minutes of your time. Want to know my secret to getting that irresistibly smooth texture that’ll have everyone asking for your recipe?
Why You’ll Love this Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge
When chocolate meets peanut butter, magic happens in your mouth. This fudge combines two beloved flavors into one irresistibly creamy treat that’ll satisfy your sweet tooth in just a few bites.
What makes this recipe special? It’s incredibly easy – no candy thermometer needed. Just melt, mix, and chill. The marshmallows create that perfect fudgy texture while the condensed milk adds sweetness without being overwhelming.
Can you resist a dessert that’s both quick to make and guaranteed to impress? I certainly can’t. Perfect for holiday gifts, potlucks, or those moments when you need something chocolatey, stat.
What Ingredients are in Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge?
This decadent fudge requires just a handful of ingredients that probably won’t require a special trip to the store.
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated milk)
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For the best results, make sure you’re using sweetened condensed milk rather than evaporated milk—this thick, sweet ingredient is essential for achieving that perfect fudgy texture we’re all looking for.
How to Make this Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Grab a 10-inch pan and give it a good coating of butter or cooking spray. This prevents your delicious fudge from sticking, which would be a true dessert tragedy.
Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, add 12 oz of semi-sweet chocolate chips, 14 oz of sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated milk—totally different animal), and 1 cup of miniature marshmallows.
The marshmallows might seem surprising, but they’re the secret to that perfect texture.
Step 3: Melt Everything Together
Place your saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously until everything melts into a gloriously smooth mixture.
Those little marshmallows will disappear into the chocolate, creating magic right before your eyes.
Step 4: Add the Flavor Boosters
Once your chocolate mixture is completely melted, stir in 3/4 cup of creamy peanut butter and 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
Keep stirring until the mixture becomes uniformly smooth and silky—no streaks or lumps allowed.
Step 5: Pour and Spread
Pour your molten fudge mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly into the corners.
A smooth, level surface will give you those picture-perfect fudge squares later.
Step 6: Chill to Set
Pop the pan into the refrigerator and let it chill for about 3 hours.
Patience is key here—the fudge needs time to set properly. You’ll know it’s ready when it feels firm to the touch.
Step 7: Cut and Store
Once firm, cut your fudge into squares of whatever size makes you happy.
For more elaborate dessert recipes, a stand mixer can make the process much easier and more efficient.
Store your chocolatey treasures in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks—though I doubt they’ll last that long.
What to Serve with Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge
This decadent fudge deserves some worthy companions when you’re ready to indulge. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream creates the perfect temperature contrast against the rich, chocolatey squares.
For something lighter, fresh strawberries or raspberries provide a tart counterpoint that cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
Coffee lovers will appreciate how a strong espresso or cappuccino enhances the chocolate notes, while milk—cold or warm—is the classic choice that never disappoints.
For an extra-special touch, try serving small squares with a drizzle of salted caramel sauce on top. These fudge squares make for perfect afternoon treats or after-dinner desserts when you want something sweet but substantial.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge Substitutions and Variations
- Flavor boosters: Add ½ teaspoon of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate, or swirl in 2 tablespoons of raspberry jam for a fruity twist.
- Holiday touch: Press crushed candy canes on top for Christmas or colored sprinkles for birthdays.
Leftovers and Storage for this Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge
This fudge keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks—though I doubt it’ll last that long in most households!
For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just layer the pieces between parchment paper in a sealed container to prevent sticking.
When frozen, allow pieces to thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. No reheating needed! In fact, this fudge is one of those treats that maintains its delightful texture straight from the fridge.
Pro tip: The flavor actually deepens after 24 hours, making this fudge even more delicious the next day.
If you notice any dryness after extended storage, simply let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before enjoying.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge truly captures the magic that happens when chocolate meets peanut butter.
What makes this recipe special is its simplicity—just five ingredients transformed into something extraordinary with minimal effort. It’s the perfect make-ahead treat for holiday gatherings, homemade gifts, or when you need a sweet pick-me-up during a busy week.
The combination of creamy texture and rich flavor creates an irresistible dessert that satisfies even the most persistent chocolate cravings.
In a world of complicated recipes, this fudge reminds us that sometimes the simplest combinations create the most memorable pleasures.