
This no-bake fudge delivers ultra-creamy texture with minimal effort. I developed this recipe to capture the perfect balance between rich peanut butter and fluffy marshmallow cream.
The beauty lies in its simplicity—just melt, mix, and chill. No oven required, no complicated techniques. The marshmallow cream adds an airy lightness that cuts through the peanut butter’s richness.
What emerges is a confection that’s decadently smooth yet light, with a texture that melts in your mouth. The combination of sweet, nutty, and creamy makes this fudge irresistible.
Ideal for gifting or satisfying sudden cravings. The process is as enjoyable as the results.
Ingredients for Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe with Marshmallow Cream
Nine ingredients transform into that ultra-creamy no-bake magic you crave.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Creamy Peanut Butter 🥜 | 1 ½ cups | Natural or commercial variety |
| Marshmallow Cream 🍬 | 7 oz | One standard jar |
| Unsalted Butter 🧈 | ½ cup | Cut into pieces for melting |
| Powdered Sugar 🧂 | 3 ½ cups | Sifted for smooth texture |
| Vanilla Extract 🌿 | 1 tsp | Pure extract recommended |
| Salt 🧂 | ¼ tsp | Fine sea salt preferred |
| Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips 🍫 | 1 cup | Optional for variation |
| Heavy Cream 🥛 | ¼ cup | For extra creaminess |
| Chopped Peanuts 🥜 | ½ cup | For topping, optional |
The peanut butter is non-negotiable here. Jif or Skippy give that perfect smooth consistency—natural PB works but can separate (stir it well first). Marshmallow Fluff is the gold standard for the cream, found near the marshmallows at any grocery store. For the butter, Kerrygold or Land O’Lakes melt beautifully. Don’t skip sifting the powdered sugar—it prevents graininess in the final texture.
Out of marshmallow cream? Mini marshmallows melted with extra butter can work in a pinch. No peanut butter? Almond butter or cashew butter swap in one-for-one. Want it richer? Add an extra 1/4 cup of melted chocolate. For the vanilla, imitation works but pure extract tastes better. The heavy cream can be replaced with evaporated milk if that’s what you have.
This fudge sets up best overnight in the fridge but can be cut in 2-3 hours. Stores well at room temperature in an airtight container for 1 week, or freeze for 3 months. The texture stays creamy even after freezing—just thaw slowly in the fridge before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Fuss Mixing: I just dump everything in one pot, stir, and let it set—no candy thermometers or finicky steps.
- Rich PB Cloud: The marshmallow cream makes it fluffy while the peanut butter gives that deep, salty-sweet kick I crave.
- Gift in Minutes: I’ve wrapped squares in wax paper for teacher gifts, potlucks, even a last-minute dessert for book club.
- Stays Soft for Days: Honestly, it keeps in the fridge for a week and still tastes fresh—if it lasts that long in my house.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Fudge With Marshmallow Cream
Here’s the no-bake method I’ve perfected for silky-smooth fudge that sets up just right.
Step 1: Melt the Base Ingredients Together
In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter over low heat. I always cut it into pieces first so it melts evenly without scorching. Once melted, stir in the 1.5 cups Creamy Peanut Butter until the mixture is completely smooth.
Now add the 7 oz Marshmallow Cream and the 0.25 cup Heavy Cream. This combination creates that ultra-creamy texture we’re after. Stir constantly until everything melts together into a glossy, homogeneous mixture – you shouldn’t see any streaks of marshmallow cream.
Watch the heat carefully. If it’s too high, the marshmallow cream can scorch, giving your fudge a bitter taste.
Step 2: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the 3.5 cups Powdered Sugar. I recommend sifting it first to prevent lumps in your finished fudge. The mixture will thicken considerably as you stir – that’s exactly what should happen.
Add the 1 tsp Vanilla Extract and 0.25 tsp Salt. The vanilla enhances the peanut butter flavor while the salt balances the sweetness. Stir vigorously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is completely smooth and the powdered sugar is fully incorporated.
The fudge should now look like a thick, shiny batter. If it seems too thick, you can add a splash more heavy cream, but be careful not to make it runny.
Step 3: Add Chocolate for Depth (Optional Step)
For a chocolate-peanut butter twist, stir in the 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips until fully melted. The residual heat from the fudge mixture should be enough to melt them completely without additional cooking.
If the mixture starts to seize up from the cool chocolate, return the pan to very low heat for just 30 seconds while stirring constantly. This variation creates beautiful marbling if you don’t stir it completely smooth.
Step 4: Set and Finish the Fudge
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang on all sides. Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. I like to sprinkle the 0.5 cup Chopped Peanuts evenly over the top for added texture and visual appeal.
Let it set at room temperature for 2-3 hours, or in the refrigerator for 1 hour if you’re in a hurry. The fudge is ready when it’s firm to the touch and a knife inserted comes out clean. For the creamiest texture, I recommend the longer, room-temperature setting time.
Once set, use the parchment overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan. Cut into 1-inch squares – you should get about 16 pieces. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Pro Tips For Making Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe With Marshmallow Cream
- Melt Butter Slowly: Use low heat when melting the butter and peanut butter to prevent separation or burning—I learned this the hard way after ruining a batch with scorched edges.
- Sift the Powdered Sugar: Sifting the powdered sugar prevents clumps and guarantees a smooth, creamy texture in your fudge.
- Fold in Marshmallow Last: Add the marshmallow cream at the very end after mixing the other ingredients, and stir just until combined to keep the fudge light and fluffy.
- Chill Before Cutting: Let the fudge set in the fridge for at least 2 hours before slicing—this keeps the pieces neat and prevents a sticky mess.
Essential Equipment for Great peanut butter fudge recipe with marshmallow cream
Heavy Saucepan
A 3-4 quart heavy-bottomed saucepan is essential for even heat distribution. I use my All-Clad stainless steel pan—it prevents hot spots that could scorch the marshmallow cream. Thin pans can burn the mixture, ruining your fudge. 🔥
Quality Mixing Tools
Use a heat-resistant silicone spatula for stirring—they scrape every bit from the pan. A wooden spoon can work, but silicone is gentler on non-stick surfaces. I also keep a whisk handy for smoothing out any lumps in the powdered sugar.
Accurate Measuring
For consistent results, measure ingredients precisely. I use OXO Good Grips measuring cups and spoons—they nest neatly and the magnetic backs keep my set organized. A kitchen scale helps for the 7 oz marshmallow cream if you want to be exact.
Parchment Paper
Line your 8×8-inch pan with parchment, leaving overhang on all sides. This makes removal effortless. I prefer pre-cut sheets for convenience. Without parchment, you risk sticking and losing half your batch to the pan.
Spacious Mixing Bowl
Transfer the mixture to a large bowl before adding powdered sugar to prevent overflow. I use a 5-quart stainless steel bowl—it gives plenty of room for vigorous stirring. A too-small bowl makes a messy, sticky situation.
Sharp Knife
For clean cuts, use a long, sharp chef’s knife. I run mine under hot water between cuts to prevent sticking. A 9-inch Wüsthof is my go-to. Wipe the blade between cuts for perfect squares every time.
Nutrition Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of regular?
You can, but stir it very well first. Natural PB separates, which can make the fudge oily. For best results, stick with creamy Jif or Skippy.
How do I fix grainy fudge?
Graininess usually means the sugar didn’t dissolve fully. Add a splash of heavy cream, warm gently, and stir until smooth.
What can I substitute for marshmallow cream?
Melt 2 cups mini marshmallows with 2 tablespoons butter as a replacement. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
How long does it take to set in the fridge?
About 1 hour for a firm set. For the creamiest texture, let it sit at room temperature for 2-3 hours instead.
- Pina Colada Dip Recipe Red Lobster: Tropical Creaminess With Toasted Coconut - October 12, 2026
- Pickled Sweet Cherry Peppers Recipe Canning: Tangy Heat for Pantry Staples - October 12, 2026
- Peppercorn Sauce Recipe Vegan: Rich Umami Depth Without Cream - October 12, 2026