I’ll be honest—when I first heard about two-ingredient peanut butter fudge, I was skeptical. How could something so simple possibly work? But curiosity got the better of me, and I decided to try it one afternoon when I needed a last-minute dessert. Within five minutes of active work, I had a pan of fudge chilling in the refrigerator. Two hours later, I was slicing into the creamiest, most delicious peanut butter fudge I’d ever tasted. No candy thermometer, no complicated steps, just two ingredients and pure magic.
This recipe has become my secret weapon for potlucks, bake sales, and unexpected guests. It’s so ridiculously easy that it feels like cheating, yet the results are phenomenal. The rich peanut butter flavor combined with the sweet, creamy texture makes it taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. Even experienced bakers are shocked when I reveal the two-ingredient secret.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only 2 ingredients needed
- Ready in 5 minutes of active time
- No candy thermometer or special equipment required
- Foolproof method that works every time
- Rich, creamy peanut butter flavor
- Perfect for gifting, parties, or emergency desserts
- Makes about 36 pieces
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 18 ounces creamy peanut butter – Use regular peanut butter like Jif or Skippy, not natural peanut butter
- 16 ounces vanilla frosting – One standard can of store-bought frosting
Important: Use regular, processed peanut butter with added stabilizers and sugar—not natural peanut butter. Natural peanut butter separates and won’t set properly. Similarly, use store-bought frosting, not homemade, as the stabilizers in commercial frosting are what make this recipe work.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line a 9×9 inch square pan (or 8×8 inch) with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal. Set aside.
- Combine ingredients: Add peanut butter and vanilla frosting to a large microwave-safe bowl.
- First microwave: Microwave for 30 seconds, then remove and stir well to begin combining the ingredients.
- Second microwave: Return to microwave for an additional 30 seconds. Remove and stir vigorously until completely smooth and well combined.
- Transfer to pan: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth it into an even layer, spreading it to all corners.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until completely set and firm to the touch.
- Cut and serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge from the pan. Place on a cutting board and slice into bite-sized squares using a sharp knife.
Tips for Success
Use the right peanut butter: This is crucial. Processed peanut butter brands like Jif, Skippy, or Peter Pan work perfectly. Natural peanut butter will result in oily, separated fudge that won’t set.
Stir thoroughly: Make sure the peanut butter and frosting are completely combined with no streaks. This ensures even texture throughout.
Don’t overheat: If you microwave too long, the mixture can separate. Stick to the 30-second intervals and stir well between each one.
Line with parchment: This makes removal and cutting so much easier. The overhang acts as handles to lift the entire block out.
Use a sharp knife: For clean cuts, use a large, sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. You can also run the knife under hot water and dry it between cuts.
Be patient with chilling: Two hours is the minimum. If your fridge runs warm or you used an 8×8 pan (thicker fudge), you may need 3 hours.
Variations
- Chocolate peanut butter fudge: Use chocolate frosting instead of vanilla for chocolate-peanut butter flavor
- Swirled fudge: Use half vanilla and half chocolate frosting, swirl together with a knife before chilling
- Crunchy version: Stir in 1/2 cup chopped peanuts or crushed pretzels before pouring into pan
- Reese’s copycat: Press mini Reese’s peanut butter cups into the top before chilling
- Chocolate drizzle: After setting, drizzle with melted chocolate for elegant presentation
- Sea salt finish: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top immediately after spreading for gourmet touch
- Cookie butter fudge: Replace peanut butter with cookie butter (Biscoff spread) for different flavor
Storage
Room temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. The fudge will be slightly softer at room temperature.
Refrigerator: Keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks. This is the best storage method as it keeps the fudge firm and fresh.
Freezer: Wrap individual pieces in wax paper and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator for 2 hours before serving.
Gift packaging: Layer in decorative tins with parchment paper between layers, or arrange in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon. This makes impressive homemade gifts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won’t my fudge set?
You likely used natural peanut butter instead of processed peanut butter. Natural peanut butter lacks the stabilizers needed to make this recipe work. You’ll need to start over with regular peanut butter.
Can I use homemade frosting?
Store-bought frosting is essential. The stabilizers and emulsifiers in commercial frosting are what allow this recipe to set properly. Homemade frosting won’t work.
My fudge is grainy. What happened?
You may have overheated the mixture or didn’t stir it enough. Make sure to stir thoroughly after each 30-second interval and don’t exceed 1 minute total microwave time.
Can I make this on the stovetop?
Yes! Combine both ingredients in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth and melted. Don’t let it boil.
Is there a substitute for peanut butter for allergies?
Try sunflower seed butter or almond butter with vanilla frosting. Cookie butter (Biscoff) also works wonderfully for a nut-free option.
Why is my fudge oily on top?
You either used natural peanut butter or overheated the mixture, causing separation. Make sure to use processed peanut butter and stick to the recommended microwave times.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Use a 9×13 inch pan for a double batch. You may need to add 15-30 seconds to the microwave time since there’s more mixture to heat.
Final Thoughts
This 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge is proof that you don’t need complicated recipes or fancy techniques to create something delicious. It’s become one of my most-requested recipes, and people are always amazed when I reveal how simple it is. The rich, creamy texture and intense peanut butter flavor rival any traditional fudge recipe that requires candy thermometers and precise temperatures.
What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility and reliability. Whether you’re an experienced baker or someone who’s never made candy before, this fudge turns out perfectly every time. It’s ideal for busy holiday seasons when you need something impressive but don’t have time for complicated baking projects. Make one batch, and you’ll understand why this simple recipe has become a viral sensation. Just be warned—it’s dangerously easy to eat more than one piece!