This fudge is a dream for any Reese’s lover. It’s quick to make with minimal ingredients, doesn’t require an oven, and delivers a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth texture. The combination of smooth peanut butter and rich chocolate makes it the perfect treat for holidays, potlucks, or just a simple weeknight dessert. It’s also freezer-friendly, which means you can always keep a batch on hand for when the sweet tooth strikes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Creamy peanut butter
Unsalted butter
Powdered sugar
Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
Sweetened condensed milk
Vanilla extract
Mini Reese’s peanut butter cups (optional, for topping or mixing in)
Directions
Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the peanut butter and butter together until smooth.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and powdered sugar. Mix until fully combined and smooth.
Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish.
In another saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Heat gently, stirring often, until fully melted and smooth.
Pour the chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer and smooth out the top.
If desired, press chopped mini Reese’s into the top of the fudge while it’s still warm.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
Once firm, lift out of the pan using the parchment and cut into squares.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 36 small squares. Prep time: 10 minutes Chill time: 2 hours Total time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Variations
Crunchy texture: Use crunchy peanut butter or mix in crushed peanuts.
Layered look: Alternate peanut butter and chocolate layers for a marbled effect.
Swirl style: Swirl the peanut butter and chocolate layers together before chilling.
Salted twist: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before setting for a sweet-salty combo.
Holiday version: Add crushed candy canes, red and green sprinkles, or festive M&M’s.
Storage/Reheating
Store Reese’s Fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze the fudge in layers with parchment paper in between. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To serve, let it come to room temperature for a few minutes for the best texture. This fudge is not meant to be reheated.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter?
It’s best to use no-stir peanut butter for better texture. Natural peanut butter can separate and make the fudge oily or crumbly.
Do I need to cook the fudge?
No, this is a no-bake recipe—just melt, mix, layer, and chill.
Can I use dark chocolate?
Yes, dark chocolate chips work well if you prefer a less sweet version.
What size pan should I use?
An 8×8 or 9×9-inch pan works best for thick, square fudge pieces.
Can I add Reese’s pieces or peanut butter chips?
Definitely! Mix them into the fudge or sprinkle on top before chilling.
Why is my fudge too soft?
Make sure to use enough powdered sugar and chill thoroughly. The fudge will firm up as it sets.
Why is my fudge too hard?
Overheating the chocolate or using too little condensed milk can lead to overly firm fudge.
Can I make this fudge dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free chocolate chips and a non-dairy condensed milk alternative.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double all ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan for a larger batch.
Is this fudge good for gifting?
Absolutely. Wrap the squares in wax paper or place them in gift boxes for a sweet homemade gift.
Conclusion
Reese’s Fudge is a rich and creamy no-bake dessert that combines the iconic flavor of peanut butter and chocolate into one easy-to-make treat. With its smooth texture, simple ingredients, and endless customization options, it’s the perfect addition to your dessert table or holiday cookie tray. Once you try it, you’ll want to make a batch any time you need a sweet fix—no oven required.
Reese’s Fudge is a rich, no-bake dessert featuring layers of creamy peanut butter and chocolate, capturing the classic flavor of a Reese’s cup in bite-sized squares. It’s perfect for holidays, gifting, or satisfying a sweet tooth with minimal effort.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:0 minutes
Total Time:2 hours 10 minutes
Yield:36 squares
Category:Dessert
Method:No-Bake
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 cup creamy peanut butter (no-stir preferred)
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups powdered sugar
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup chopped mini Reese’s peanut butter cups (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal.
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the peanut butter and butter together, stirring until smooth.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and powdered sugar. Mix until well combined and smooth.
Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
In another saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Heat gently, stirring often, until melted and smooth.
Pour the chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly.
While still warm, press chopped mini Reese’s cups into the top if using.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until completely set.
Once firm, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into squares.
Notes
Use no-stir peanut butter for best texture; natural varieties may separate.Sprinkle with flaky sea salt for a sweet-and-salty variation.Double the recipe and use a 9×13-inch pan for a larger batch.For gifting, wrap each piece in wax paper or place in festive treat boxes.Store chilled for best texture; bring to room temperature before serving.