Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe Sweetened Condensed Milk: No-Bake Creamy Indulgence

This no-bake fudge delivers creamy perfection with minimal effort. The combination of peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk creates a rich, velvety texture that melts in your mouth.

Just mix, chill, and enjoy. No oven, no fuss—just pure, indulgent flavor in every bite.

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe Sweetened Condensed Milk

Seven simple ingredients create this rich, velvety no-bake treat with creamy perfection.

The peanut butter is key here—Jif or Skippy creamy gives consistent results. Sweetened condensed milk is non-negotiable; avoid evaporated milk (it’s not the same). I grab mine from Walmart or Target—any brand works as long as it’s the full-fat version. For butter, Kerrygold is my go-to, but store brand is fine too (just ensure it’s unsalted).

No peanut butter? Almond or cashew butter works at a 1:1 ratio (flavor changes slightly). Swap powdered sugar for coconut sugar if avoiding refined sugar, but texture may differ. Out of vanilla? Maple syrup at half the amount adds depth. The peanuts are totally optional—leave them out for ultra-smooth fudge.

Fudge sets best in the fridge for 2-3 hours. Stores in an airtight container for 1 week at room temperature or 2 weeks refrigerated. Freezes beautifully for 3 months (thaw overnight before serving).

Step-by-Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Fudge

Here’s the method that guarantees smooth, melt-in-your-mouth results with zero oven time.

Step 1: Melt and Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine the 1.5 cups creamy peanut butter, 1 can sweetened condensed milk, and 0.25 cup unsalted butter over low heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula until the mixture is completely smooth and the butter has fully melted.

This gentle melting process ensures the ingredients incorporate evenly without scorching. You’ll notice the mixture thicken slightly and become glossy—this typically takes 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush it by increasing the heat; patience here prevents graininess in your final product.

Step 2: Add Flavorings and Sweeten

Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the 1 tsp vanilla extract and 0.25 tsp sea salt. The residual heat will distribute these flavors perfectly without cooking them off. I always use pure vanilla extract here—it makes a noticeable difference in the depth of flavor.

Next, gradually add the 1.5 cups powdered sugar, about ½ cup at a time, stirring vigorously after each addition until fully incorporated. The powdered sugar should disappear completely into the mixture, leaving no visible streaks. If using sifted sugar as recommended, this step will be effortlessly smooth.

Step 3: Fold in the Peanuts and Set

Gently fold in the 0.5 cup chopped roasted peanuts with a spatula, distributing them evenly throughout the fudge. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can reserve some peanuts to sprinkle on top later. The mixture will be very thick at this point—that’s exactly what you want.

Immediately transfer the fudge to a parchment-lined 8×8-inch baking dish, spreading it into an even layer with your spatula. Press down firmly to eliminate any air pockets. The fudge should be about 1 inch thick in the pan.

Step 4: Chill to Perfection

Cover the dish with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the fudge to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until completely firm to the touch. This chilling time is crucial—it allows the fudge to set properly and develop that ideal creamy yet sliceable texture.

For the cleanest cuts, let the fudge sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water (and wiped dry) between each cut for perfect squares. The fudge should be firm enough to hold its shape but soft enough to melt beautifully on your tongue.

Make-Ahead Tips for This Recipe

🍳 Week Before

Stock up on non-perishable ingredients like creamy peanut butter, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Check your pantry for staples like salt and powdered sugar. This ensures you’re ready to start prepping without last-minute grocery runs! 💡

🔪 Day Before

Measure out dry ingredients like powdered sugar and set them aside in airtight containers. Line your baking dish with parchment paper, so it’s ready for the fudge the next day. If using add-ins like chopped nuts or chocolate chips, prep and store them in separate containers. ⏰

👨‍🍳 Day Of

Combine the sweetened condensed milk and peanut butter in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, and gradually mix in the powdered sugar. Pour into the prepped dish and let it set at room temperature for 2-3 hours before cutting. ✨

🎯 Last-Minute Tasks

Once the fudge is fully set, cut it into squares and add any final toppings, like a drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer freshness. 🌡️