When you want a homemade dessert without spending hours in the kitchen, this 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge is almost impossible to beat. Made with just creamy peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk, this simple no-bake treat comes together in minutes and requires no candy thermometer, complicated techniques, or long cooking process.
The texture is wonderfully smooth and creamy, with an intense peanut butter flavor and just the right amount of sweetness. Once chilled, the mixture firms up into soft, rich fudge that practically melts in your mouth. Similar two-ingredient versions use peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk and set in the refrigerator without the need for traditional candy-making techniques. (Winding Creek Ranch)
Whether you’re looking for easy dessert recipes, a quick holiday treat, or a homemade sweet to keep in the refrigerator, this recipe is one you’ll want to save.
Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Fudge
- Only 2 ingredients: That’s right—no butter, sugar, or complicated additions required.
- No-bake dessert: There’s no need to turn on the oven.
- No candy thermometer: The simple method makes this recipe very beginner-friendly.
- Rich and creamy: Peanut butter creates an irresistibly smooth texture.
- Quick preparation: The mixture takes only a few minutes to prepare.
- Perfect for gifting: Cut it into small squares and package it for holidays or special occasions.
- Easy to customize: Add nuts, chocolate, sea salt, or other toppings if desired.
Ingredients
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
Optional Toppings
- ¼ cup chopped roasted peanuts
- Flaky sea salt
- Melted chocolate for drizzling
For the smoothest texture, use regular creamy peanut butter rather than a very runny natural variety. If using natural peanut butter, stir it extremely well first so the oil is fully incorporated. (Winding Creek Ranch)
How to Make 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some parchment hanging over the sides.
The overhanging parchment will make it much easier to lift the finished 2-ingredient peanut butter fudge from the pan after it has chilled.
Step 2: Melt the Peanut Butter
Place 2 cups creamy peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl.
Microwave the 2 cups peanut butter for about 1 minute, stopping every 30 seconds to stir.
Continue heating the 2 cups peanut butter until it becomes warm, smooth, and easy to stir. Don’t overheat it.
You can also melt the 2 cups peanut butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until smooth. (Winding Creek Ranch)
Step 3: Add the Condensed Milk
Pour the entire 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk into the warm 2 cups melted peanut butter.
Stir the 2 cups peanut butter and 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk vigorously until completely combined and smooth.
The mixture will become noticeably thicker as you stir. This is exactly what you want.
Step 4: Transfer to the Pan
Immediately transfer the mixture made with 2 cups peanut butter and 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk into the parchment-lined 8×8-inch pan.
Use a rubber spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the peanut butter fudge mixture evenly into the corners.
Gently smooth the surface so the finished fudge will have an attractive, even top.
Step 5: Add Optional Toppings
If desired, sprinkle ¼ cup chopped roasted peanuts over the top of the freshly prepared 2-ingredient peanut butter fudge.
You can also add a light sprinkling of flaky sea salt or drizzle melted chocolate over the peanut butter and condensed milk mixture.
For completely classic two-ingredient fudge, simply leave the top plain.
Step 6: Chill Until Firm
Place the pan containing the 2 cups peanut butter and 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk mixture in the refrigerator.
Chill for at least 2–3 hours, or until the fudge is firm enough to cut cleanly. Some versions recommend approximately 2 hours, while longer chilling produces a firmer texture. (Winding Creek Ranch)
For the neatest slices, chilling the fudge overnight works particularly well.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Once the 2-ingredient peanut butter fudge is completely firm, lift it from the pan using the parchment paper.
Place the chilled fudge on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut it into small squares.
For especially clean cuts, warm the knife under hot water, dry it thoroughly, and then slice the fudge.
The finished batch made from 2 cups peanut butter and 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk can be cut into approximately 24–36 small pieces, depending on the size you prefer.
Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Fudge
Don’t overheat the peanut butter. You only need the 2 cups peanut butter warm and fluid enough to combine with the condensed milk.
Stir thoroughly. Once the 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk is added, mix until there are no streaks of condensed milk remaining.
Use parchment paper. It makes removing the chilled fudge dramatically easier.
Give it enough time to set. Don’t try to cut the fudge before the 2 cups peanut butter and 14 ounces condensed milk mixture has become firm.
Keep the pieces small. This fudge is rich, so bite-sized squares are ideal for serving.
Easy Variations
Although this recipe needs only 2 cups peanut butter and 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk, you can easily customize it.
For a chocolate peanut butter fudge, drizzle melted semisweet or dark chocolate over the chilled fudge.
For extra crunch, add ¼ cup chopped roasted peanuts to the top before refrigerating.
For a sweet-and-salty version, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the peanut butter fudge before it sets.
You can also stir mini chocolate chips into the mixture after combining the 2 cups peanut butter and 14 ounces condensed milk, although you’ll want to work quickly because the fudge thickens rapidly.
For a holiday presentation, add colorful sprinkles to the top before chilling.
How to Store Peanut Butter Fudge
Store the finished 2-ingredient peanut butter fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Keeping it chilled helps maintain its firm, creamy texture. Place parchment paper between layers if you’re stacking the fudge pieces.
The fudge can also be frozen for longer storage. Wrap the pieces well and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this fudge without a microwave?
Absolutely. Place 2 cups creamy peanut butter in a saucepan over low heat and warm it gently until smooth. Add 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk and stir continuously until completely combined. Then transfer the mixture to the lined pan and chill. (Lynn’s Way of Life)
Can I use evaporated milk instead of condensed milk?
No. Sweetened condensed milk is important because it provides both sweetness and the consistency needed for this simple fudge. Evaporated milk does not work as a direct substitute. (Winding Creek Ranch)
Why is my fudge too soft?
The most common reason is insufficient chilling time. Return the 2 cups peanut butter and 14 ounces condensed milk mixture to the refrigerator and allow it more time to firm up.
Final Thoughts
This 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge is exactly the kind of recipe that makes homemade desserts feel effortless. With just 2 cups creamy peanut butter and 1 can of sweetened condensed milk, you can create a rich, creamy treat without baking, complicated candy-making, or a long list of ingredients.
It’s perfect for easy no-bake desserts, holiday treat trays, homemade gifts, parties, or simply satisfying a peanut butter craving. Once you see how quickly it comes together, don’t be surprised if this becomes one of your favorite fudge recipes.
