This 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe Melts in Your Mouth (No Oven, No Stress!)

Published: August 2025 | Reading Time: 4 minutes | Difficulty: Beginner

The first time I made this 3 ingredient peanut butter fudge, I couldn’t believe something so decadently creamy could come together in just 10 minutes. No candy thermometer, no complicated techniques, and absolutely no oven required.

Picture this: You’re craving something sweet, but it’s 9 PM and the stores are closed. Your pantry holds just three simple ingredients that will transform into the most satisfying treat you’ve ever made. This easy peanut butter fudge recipe has saved countless midnight cravings and impressed family gatherings with its rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned baker looking for a foolproof dessert, this no bake peanut butter fudge delivers restaurant-quality results every single time. In less time than it takes to drive to the store, you’ll have creamy, indulgent squares ready to devour.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

The Magic of Three: Your Essential Ingredients

Peanut Butter: The Star of the Show

The foundation of any great quick peanut butter fudge 3 ingredients recipe starts with quality peanut butter. Here’s what works best:

• Natural peanut butter: Creates the richest flavor but may need extra stirring
• Creamy peanut butter: Delivers the smoothest texture (recommended for beginners)
• Crunchy peanut butter: Adds delightful texture contrast

Pro tip: Room temperature peanut butter mixes easier and creates a smoother consistency.

Sweetener: Your Flavor Enhancer

The second ingredient controls both sweetness and texture:

• Powdered sugar: Creates classic fudge sweetness and helps with setting
• Honey: Adds natural sweetness with a subtle floral note
• Maple syrup: Perfect for a deeper, more complex flavor profile

Storage note: Honey-based versions stay softer longer, while powdered sugar creates firmer squares.

Binding Agent: The Secret to Perfect Texture

Your third ingredient determines the final consistency:

• Coconut oil: Creates clean breaks and a professional finish
• Butter: Adds richness and traditional fudge flavor
• Dark chocolate chips: Elevates the recipe into chocolate peanut butter heaven

Temperature matters: Slightly warm binding agents incorporate more smoothly.

Step-by-Step Recipe: Simple Peanut Butter Fudge Without Condensed Milk

Print

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Chill Time: 2 hours | Serves: 16 squares

Ingredients: 3 ingredient peanut butter fudge

• 1 cup natural peanut butter (room temperature)
• ½ cup powdered sugar (sifted)
• 3 tablespoons coconut oil (slightly melted)

Instructions:

1. Line your pan: Use parchment paper in an 8×8 inch square pan for easy removal.
2. Mix the base: Combine peanut butter and powdered sugar in a medium bowl. Stir until completely smooth.
3. Incorporate the binder: Gradually pour in the melted coconut oil while mixing, ensuring it blends smoothly for a glossy, even texture. Mix until glossy and uniform.
4. Shape and chill: Press mixture evenly into prepared pan. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours until firm.
5. Slice and enjoy: Remove the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper and carefully cut into 16 neat squares with a sharp knife.

Texture hack: For extra smoothness, warm the bowl slightly before mixing. For firmer fudge, add an extra tablespoon of powdered sugar.

Storing tip: Keep the fudge in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days to maintain freshness. Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Breakdown & Health Benefits

Per square (approximate):

• Calories: 95
• Protein: 3.5g
• Healthy fats: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 4g

Healthier Variations:

• Sugar-free version: Substitute powdered erythritol (1:1 ratio)
• Vegan option: Use coconut oil as your binding agent
• Keto-friendly: Replace powdered sugar with powdered monk fruit sweetener

According to nutritional research published in the Journal of Food Science, natural peanut butter provides essential amino acids and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, making this treat more nutritious than traditional candy alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions

Customize Your Creation

Ready to experiment? Here are reader-favorite variations:

• Chocolate lovers: Fold in ¼ cup mini chocolate chips before chilling
• Nutty twist: Try almond butter or cashew butter for unique flavors
• Salty-sweet: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before chilling
• Festive twist: Mix in a dash of cinnamon and a splash of vanilla to give your fudge cozy holiday flavors.
• (Share your creative variations in the comments below!)

Tell us your twist: Did you try it with almond butter or add dark chocolate chips? We’d love to hear your spin on this recipe—drop your variations in the comments!

(This no bake peanut butter fudge proves that impressive desserts don’t require complicated techniques or expensive equipment.) Pin this recipe to your dessert board and tag us on social media – we love seeing your kitchen successes.

The Sweet Simplicity of Three

Sometimes the sweetest joys really do come from just three simple ingredients. This easy peanut butter fudge shows that you can create a luxurious dessert without fancy tools or complicated steps. With just minutes of prep and a few hours of patience, you’ll have a treat that rivals any high-end confectionery.

Whether you’re making this for a last-minute gathering, satisfying a sudden sweet tooth, or introducing young bakers to the joy of homemade treats, this recipe delivers consistent, delicious results every time.

Bookmark this recipe and share it with fellow dessert lovers – because everyone deserves to know the secret of 3-ingredient magic!

---

Love quick and easy recipes? Discover our 3-Ingredient Chocolate Chip Cookies that are just as simple and twice as satisfying. For more 3 ingredient desserts, check out our 3 Ingredient Banana Ice Cream perfect for busy weekdays.