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One chilly evening last winter, I was knee-deep in cozy blankets on the sofa when a sudden peanut butter craving hit me like a freight train. You know the kind—your brain just yells, “Get me something gooey and sweet!” I didn’t have the energy (or patience) to fire up the oven, so I did what any self-respecting comfort-food lover would do: I sprinted to the pantry and whipped up my go-to, speedy Microwave Peanut Butter Fudge. Within minutes, I was dunking squares into my mug of hot cocoa and feeling all warm and fuzzy again.
This little fudge hack has saved me on more than one hectic holiday afternoon (and on random Tuesdays when snacks mysteriously vanish). It’s creamy, it’s rich, and yes—it’s totally indulgent without making you feel like you need a nap afterward. Let’s just say this recipe has become my secret weapon for last-minute gifts, surprise bake sales, and impromptu neighbor drop-offs.
Why You’ll Love This Microwave Peanut Butter Fudge
- No oven? No problem! Your microwave does all the heavy lifting.
- Ready in under 15 minutes—ideal for those “I need dessert now” moments.
- Creamy peanut butter flavor meets silky chocolate bliss (yes, really!).
- Gluten-free by default; easily dairy-free if you swap in coconut oil and vegan chips.
- Perfect for care packages, bake sales, or sneaking a square between Zoom meetings.
- Scales up for a party or down when it’s just you and your midnight snack habit.
- Uses everyday pantry ingredients—no specialty store hunts required.
Ingredient Notes & Easy Swaps
- Peanut Butter: Creamy (no-stir style if you want extra smooth). Natural PB works, but give it a good stir first. If yours is super oily, gently blot off a little oil so your fudge isn’t greasy.
- Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet is classic, but dark chocolate chips amp up the richness. Dairy-free chips work wonders too.
- Powdered Sugar: Also called confectioners’ sugar—sift it for that perfect velvety texture. No one likes a lumpy fudge bite.
- Butter: Unsalted keeps things under control, but you can also use salted if you’re lazy like me—just skip the extra pinch of sea salt. Coconut oil is your go-to for a vegan twist.
- Vanilla Extract: A teaspoon of pure vanilla adds depth—don’t skimp on this little goody.
- Sea Salt: Just a pinch balances out the sweetness. Feel free to try a flavored salt (smoked or raspberry-salted, anyone?).
- Bonus Mix-Ins: Mini marshmallows for gooey pockets, chopped nuts for crunch, or crushed pretzels if you’re craving salty-sweet chaos.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Grab a medium, microwave-safe bowl (glass or ceramic is your best friend here). Add 1 cup peanut butter, 1 cup chocolate chips, 2 tablespoons butter (or coconut oil), and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Quick Tip: Metal bowls? Nope. They’ll spoil your fudge fiesta.
- Microwave on high for 30 seconds. Stir vigorously with a spatula or heatproof spoon. Repeat in 20–25 second bursts, stirring each time, until the mixture is glossy and lump-free.
Pro Move: Don’t skip stirring—it prevents scorching and gives you that dreamy, velvety texture.
- Sift in ½ cup powdered sugar and add a pinch of sea salt. Stir in two batches so you don’t end up with sugar clouds in your kitchen. Mix until you have a thick, spoon-coating consistency (kind of like stiff frosting).
Sense Check: If it feels runny, pop it back in the microwave for another 10 seconds, stir, and check again.
- Fold in any fun extras—nuts, marshmallows, or pretzels. This part’s your playground, so go nuts (pun intended).
- Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides. Pour in the fudge mixture and smooth the surface with your spatula.
Insider Tip: The parchment overhang makes popping out slices later a breeze.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or throw it in the freezer for 15 if impatience is your middle name).
- Lift the set fudge out using the parchment paper. Place on a cutting board and slice into 16–20 squares with a sharp knife.
Pro Slicing Hack: Run your knife under hot water, wipe dry, and then slice. Cleaner cuts every time.
- Let squares sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving—this makes them melt-in-your-mouth perfect.
Variations & Flavor Twists
- White Chocolate Swirl: Melt ¼ cup white chocolate chips, drizzle on top, and swirl with a toothpick for a pretty marbled effect.
- Spicy Peanut Butter Fudge: Stir in ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for an unexpected sweet-heat kick.
- Nut-Free Bliss: Swap peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a completely allergen-friendly treat.
- Mint Chocolate: Add ½ teaspoon peppermint extract and top with crushed candy canes—holiday magic in every bite.
- Espresso Buzz: Mix in 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder for mocha-lovers who need a little jolt.
- Ginger Snap Peppermint: Fold in crushed ginger snap cookies or sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top for a festive flair.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Once your fudge is set, stash the squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks (not that they’ll last that long). For longer storage, layer pieces between parchment paper and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight or let them sit at room temp for 10–15 minutes before nibbling—no reheating needed. If you crave that freshly-made warmth, pop a square in the microwave for 5 seconds. Boom: fresh-from-the-kitchen vibes.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—Microwave Peanut Butter Fudge that’s fast, fuss-free, and fall-down-delicious. I swear, this recipe has bailed me out more times than I can count (you know, when you suddenly realize you’re hosting brunch in an hour). So go ahead, raid your pantry, sprinkle in your favorite mix-ins, and treat yourself (and your lucky neighbors) to a batch of this dreamy fudge. If you try it, let me know in the comments what twist you went for—because honestly, I’m already plotting my next variation!
Happy fudge-making, friends. Now go on, get cozy, and indulge a little—you deserve it!
Microwave Peanut Butter Fudge
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter natural, no-stir style if you want extra creaminess
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks for a richer flavor
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar sifted (use confectioners’ sugar for a smooth texture)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter sub coconut oil for dairy-free option
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract look for a brand with deep flavor notes
- Pinch fine sea salt balances sweetness; feel free to use a flavored salt
- Optional mix-ins: chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, or a sprinkle of crushed pretzels
Instructions
- Combine peanut butter, chocolate chips, butter, and vanilla in a medium-microwave-safe bowl.
- Heat on high for short bursts, stirring in between, until the mixture is glossy and smooth.
- Stir in powdered sugar and sea salt until no lumps remain.
- Fold in any mix-ins if desired, then chill in the fridge until firm.
- Slice into squares and serve at room temperature for a creamy experience.
