Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe Using Marshmallow Fluff: Decadent No-Bake Squares

Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe Using Marshmallow Fluff: Decadent No-Bake Squares

This no-bake fudge delivers rich peanut butter flavor with minimal effort. The marshmallow fluff creates an ultra-creamy texture that melts in your mouth.

No oven required—just melt, mix, and chill. The combination of peanut butter, sugar, and fluff creates a smooth, decadent base that sets into perfect squares.

After 10 minutes of prep and 2 hours in the fridge, you’ll have a batch of fudge that’s impossible to resist. Each piece is dense, sweet, and packed with peanut butter goodness.

Ideal for gifting or satisfying a sweet tooth. This recipe proves that the best treats don’t need heat.

👨‍🍳
Difficulty
Medium
🌿
Diet
Vegetarian
⏱️
Total Time
30 min
🔥
Calories
Low Cal

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe Using Marshmallow Fluff

Seven simple ingredients create these melt-in-your-mouth no-bake squares with rich peanut butter flavor.

Ingredient Amount Notes
Creamy Peanut Butter 🥜 1 ½ cups Smooth, not natural separation type
Granulated Sugar 🍚 2 cups White granulated preferred
Marshmallow Fluff ⚪ 1 jar 7.5 oz jar standard size
Unsalted Butter 🧈 ½ cup 1 stick equivalent
Vanilla Extract 🌿 1 tsp Pure vanilla recommended
Salt 🧂 ¼ tsp Table salt or fine sea salt
Powdered Sugar ❄️ ½ cup For dusting optional

The peanut butter is the star here. Jif or Skippy creamy works perfectly—avoid the natural stuff that separates (it won’t blend as smoothly). Marshmallow Fluff brand is what you want—it’s in the baking aisle near the marshmallows. Most grocery stores carry it, but if you’re at Walmart or Target, you’ll find it easily. The butter should be real, unsalted so you control the salt level.

No marshmallow fluff? Jet-Puffed marshmallows melted with a splash of milk works in a pinch (about 2 cups marshmallows). Swap granulated sugar for brown sugar if you want a deeper caramel note. Using natural peanut butter? Stir it really well first and add 1 extra tablespoon of butter to compensate for the oil. The vanilla can be imitation if that’s what you have, but pure tastes better.

This keeps beautifully at room temp in an airtight container for up to 1 week. For longer storage, pop it in the fridge for 2-3 weeks. Cut into squares once fully set, then layer between parchment paper to prevent sticking.

❤️

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • 5-Minute Magic: I can make a batch between unloading the dishwasher and starting laundry—just melt, stir, and set.
  • Marshmallow Cloud: That fluff gives the fudge a melt-in-your-mouth lightness you won’t get with regular recipes.
  • Gift-Worthy Treat: I box these up for teachers, neighbors, and last-minute hostess gifts—everyone thinks I slaved for hours.
  • Pantry MVP: All five ingredients are cheap staples I already keep on hand, so cravings never have to wait.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Fudge Using Marshmallow Fluff

No oven required—this simple method delivers creamy, melt-in-your-mouth fudge every time.

Step 1: Combine and Melt the Base Ingredients

In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the 2 cups Granulated Sugar, 1.5 cups Creamy Peanut Butter, and 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter. Place the pan over medium heat and stir constantly with a wooden spoon.

As the mixture warms, the butter will melt first, followed by the sugar dissolving. Keep stirring until everything is completely smooth and you can no longer see any sugar granules. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Watch for the mixture to start bubbling gently around the edges—that’s your cue it’s ready for the next step. Don’t let it reach a rolling boil.

Step 2: Incorporate the Marshmallow Fluff

Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the 1 jar Marshmallow Fluff. The heat from the sugar mixture will begin melting the fluff, but you’ll need to work quickly as it thickens fast.

Fold the fluff in with a spatula, pressing down to break up any large chunks. The mixture will become thick and sticky, almost like a very dense cake batter. This transformation usually takes 1-2 minutes of vigorous stirring.

If the mixture seems too thick to stir, return it to low heat for 30 seconds just to soften it slightly, but don’t overheat or the sugar will start to separate.

Step 3: Add Flavorings and Finish the Mixture

Stir in the 1 tsp Vanilla Extract and 0.25 tsp Salt. The vanilla adds that classic depth of flavor, while the salt balances all the sweetness perfectly. Mix until these are fully incorporated and the fudge has a uniform color.

At this point, the fudge should be pulling away from the sides of the pan slightly and have a glossy, thick consistency. If it’s still too runny, return it to low heat for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.

Step 4: Set and Cut the Fudge

Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal. Pour the fudge mixture into the pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.

Let it cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until completely set. The fudge is ready when it’s firm to the touch and doesn’t stick to your finger when pressed lightly.

Once fully set, lift the fudge out using the parchment overhang and place it on a cutting board. Cut into 16 equal squares using a sharp knife. For a finishing touch, dust with 0.5 cup Powdered Sugar if desired.

👨‍🍳

Pro Tips For Making Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe Using Marshmallow Fluff

  • Boil to 234°F: Use a candy thermometer and pull the sugar-butter mixture at exactly 234°F—any higher and your fudge will turn grainy, any lower and it won’t set. I learned this the hard way after ending up with peanut butter soup.
  • Warm the Peanut Butter: Measure your peanut butter first, then microwave it for 20-30 seconds to soften it. Stirring warm peanut butter into the hot sugar mix blends smoother and prevents those stubborn streaks of unincorporated fat.
  • Resist Early Stirring: Don’t stir the sugar-butter mixture while it’s heating—just swirl the pot if you must. Stirring too soon can cause sugar crystals to form, and you’ll end up with crunchy fudge instead of creamy.
  • Add Fluff Off Heat: Take the pot off the burner before folding in the marshmallow fluff and vanilla. The residual heat is enough to melt the fluff, and doing it this way keeps the mixture from seizing up or turning rock-hard as it cools.

Dietary Considerations for These Flavors

Gluten-Free Friendly

This no-bake treat is naturally gluten-free, making it safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. None of the core ingredients—peanut butter, sugar, or marshmallow fluff—contain gluten, so you can enjoy it worry-free. 💪

Dairy Alternatives

To make this dairy-free, simply swap the unsalted butter for 1 stick (½ cup) dairy-free margarine or coconut oil. Brands like Earth Balance work perfectly and maintain the same creamy texture. The flavor remains just as rich.

Vegan Adjustments

For a fully vegan version, use the dairy-free butter mentioned above and ensure your peanut butter and marshmallow fluff are vegan-certified. Dandies makes a great vegan marshmallow fluff substitute. The results are just as indulgent.

Nut Allergy Warning

Since peanut butter is the star ingredient, this recipe isn’t suitable for those with peanut allergies. For tree nut allergies, check labels—some marshmallow fluff brands may have cross-contamination warnings. Always verify ingredient sources.

Sugar Variations

To reduce refined sugar, try substituting coconut sugar for the granulated sugar. Note that the texture may be slightly grainier. For a sugar-free option, use monk fruit sweetener blends, but expect a firmer texture and aftertaste. 💡

Lower-Calorie Option

Cut calories by using powdered peanut butter (like PB2) for half the peanut butter amount. Reconstitute ½ cup powdered peanut butter with ¼ cup water and mix it in with the regular peanut butter. The flavor stays strong while reducing fat.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 16
Amount Per Serving
Calories 280kcal
% Daily Value
Total Fat 14g18%
Saturated Fat 5g25%
Cholesterol 10mg3%
Sodium 120mg5%
Total Carbohydrate 36g13%
Dietary Fiber 1g4%
Sugars 32g
Protein 5g10%
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1

Why use marshmallow fluff instead of regular marshmallows?

Fluff blends seamlessly into the mixture, creating a smoother texture. You’d need to melt regular marshmallows with milk first, which adds an extra step and can alter the consistency.

2

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, but the texture will be grainier. For the creamiest result, stick with smooth. If using crunchy, press it into the pan firmly to help it hold together better.

3

How long can I store this fudge?

It keeps at room temperature in an airtight container for 1 week. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 3 weeks.

4

What if my fudge doesn’t set?

If it’s still soft after chilling, it may need more time. Return it to the fridge for another 1-2 hours. If it’s still not firm, reheat slightly and add 1-2 tablespoons of powdered sugar.

★★★★★4.7(11 reviews)
Allison Carter