This No-Bake Peanut Butter Fudge is a game-changer for fudge lovers. It’s made with just four ingredients, takes 5 minutes to prepare, and it’s secretly healthy!
Let’s get real: fudge is one of the best sweet treats ever. It never ceases to satisfy my sweet tooth and put a big ol’ smile on my face. There’s one thing I’m not a fan of about fudge, though – it’s not very good for you. It’s packed with sugar! And while, yes, it’s delicious and worth every grain of sugar, I kind of want to eat fudge every day.
SO, here’s the solution. This recipe.
This Peanut Butter Fudge is made with healthy ingredients, so you can make your soul happy as well as your body.
If you’re new to my blog, I’m all about taking classic treats and making them healthier by using better-for-you ingredients. Welcome!
And if we’re being honest here – this may not be an exact replica of classic fudge, but it’s still incredibly delicious and still provides that mouth-feel that fudge offers (don’t pretend you don’t know what I’m talking about!). The flavors are absolutely incredible – I could eat this no-bake peanut butter fudge all day long!
On top of all of this, this fudge is incredibly easy to make. It takes a maximum of 5 minutes to prepare, then it goes in the freezer to firm up, and voila – you have healthy fudge!
It’s also gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and refined sugar-free!
So – grab your four ingredients and make some peanut butter fudge.
Why You’ll Love This No-Bake Peanut Butter Fudge:
- It’s made with just four ingredients.
- It’s secretly healthy.
- It takes 5 minutes to prepare!
- It’s incredibly delicious.
- It’s a great meal-prep dessert or snack.
- It’s customizable, so you can keep things exciting.
- It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, egg-free, and refined sugar-free.
- It’s good for your soul and your body.
How This Fudge is Healthier Than Regular Fudge
This No-Bake Peanut Butter Fudge stands out as a healthier alternative to traditional fudge due to several key factors:
- Lower Sugar Content: Traditional fudge is typically loaded with refined sugar, which can lead to spikes in blood sugar levels and contribute to various health issues like weight gain and diabetes. This recipe uses natural sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar. These sweeteners have a lower glycemic index, which means they cause a slower and steadier rise in blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of sugar crashes and promoting better overall health.
- Healthy Fats: Conventional fudge often contains butter or other saturated fats that can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease. In contrast, this recipe uses peanut butter and coconut oil. Peanut butter provides healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that support heart health. Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are easier for the body to metabolize into energy, potentially boosting metabolism and aiding in weight management.
- Nutrient Density: Unlike regular fudge, which offers little nutritional value, this healthier fudge includes ingredients rich in essential nutrients. Peanut butter is a good source of protein, vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium, all of which are vital for muscle function, heart health, and overall well-being. Natural sweeteners add antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress, and vanilla extract also contributes beneficial antioxidants.
- Dietary Considerations: This recipe is gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free, making it suitable for people with various dietary restrictions and preferences. It’s also vegan, catering to those who avoid animal products. Traditional fudge, on the other hand, often contains dairy and refined sugars, which are not suitable for everyone.
By choosing nutrient-rich ingredients and avoiding common unhealthy additives, this no-bake peanut butter fudge is a sweet indulgence that aligns better with a balanced and health-conscious lifestyle.
Ingredients Needed:
These are the ingredients you’ll need to make this No Bake Peanut Butter Fudge. You can find the exact measurements in the recipe card at the bottom of this page.
- Peanut Butter: Peanut butter serves as the creamy and flavorful base of the healthy fudge, providing a rich source of protein and healthy fats. It contributes to a satisfying texture while delivering essential nutrients such as vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium. These nutrients support heart health, muscle function, and overall well-being. Additionally, peanut butter is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels.
- Liquid Sweetener: The liquid sweetener, whether it’s honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar, adds the necessary sweetness to the fudge while offering health benefits that refined sugars lack. These natural sweeteners are rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. They also provide a moderate amount of vitamins and minerals, enhancing the nutritional profile of the fudge. Furthermore, their liquid form ensures a smooth and cohesive mixture, contributing to the fudge’s perfect consistency.
- Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is a vital ingredient in healthy peanut butter fudge, known for its unique composition of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). These MCTs are easily absorbed and utilized by the body for quick energy, potentially boosting metabolism and aiding in weight management. Coconut oil also imparts a smooth and velvety texture to the fudge, ensuring it holds together well. Its mild, pleasant flavor complements the peanut butter, enhancing the overall taste experience.
- Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract plays a subtle yet essential role in enhancing the flavor profile of the fudge. It adds a sweet, aromatic quality that rounds out the taste, making each bite more enjoyable.
Equipment Needed
- Digital Food Scale: For accurate measurements and perfect results.
- Mixing Bowl: To combine the ingredients.
- Parchment Paper: For easy removal.
- Fork or Whisk
- Small Container or Baking Tin: I use a lunch tin. The size doesn’t matter, but bear in mind that the smaller the container, the thicker the fudge.
How to Make No-Bake Peanut Butter Fudge
Here is a detailed summary of how to make this Peanut Butter Fudge. I’ve also included some photos, and you can watch the recipe video in the recipe card.
Step One:
Prepare your container or baking tin by greasing it with some coconut oil or butter, then insert a sheet of parchment paper. This makes the removal of the fudge much easier later on.
Step Two:
Melt your coconut oil in the microwave or in a small saucepan.
Step Three:
Add the peanut butter, liquid sweetener, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract to a bowl and whisk until completely smooth. You can add a pinch of salt if your peanut butter is unsalted. I find it gives the fudge a salted caramel-like flavor and it also adds a slight crunch, which is very satisfying. You can also add any other mix-ins here like nuts, chopped chocolate, etc.
Step Four:
Transfer the mixture to your parchment-lined tin and spread it out evenly to the edges.
Step Five:
Freeze for at least 1 hour or until solid, then slice into pieces – you choose how big!
Tips and Notes for the best Peanut Butter Fudge
Use High-Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor and texture, choose high-quality, natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils. Similarly, opt for pure vanilla extract and organic coconut oil if possible.
Sweetener Choice: Depending on your preference, you can experiment with different liquid sweeteners. Honey, maple syrup, and agave nectar each impart their own unique flavor, so feel free to try different options.
Keep Frozen: Store your fudge in an airtight container in the freezer. It will keep well for up to three months. The texture will be perfect frozen, so no need to thaw.
Customization: Feel free to add mix-ins like chopped nuts, dried fruit, or dark chocolate chips to the fudge mixture. This can add extra texture and flavor to your fudge.
Serving Size: Remember that this fudge is rich and satisfying, so small pieces go a long way. Cutting it into bite-sized squares makes it easier to enjoy in moderation.
Parchment Paper: Using parchment paper to line your container or tin will make it much easier to remove the fudge once it’s set. Simply lift the paper out, and then slice the fudge on a cutting board.
How to store Peanut Butter Freezer Fudge
Freezing: Once your fudge is fully set, transfer it to an airtight container. This will prevent any freezer burn and keep your fudge fresh. Store the container in the freezer for up to three months.
Serving: When you’re ready to enjoy your fudge, take it out of the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes. This will soften it slightly, making it easier to cut and more enjoyable to eat.
Portioning: If you prefer, you can pre-slice the fudge before freezing it. Lay the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, and then transfer the pieces to an airtight container. This way, you can easily grab a piece or two without having to thaw the entire batch.
FAQ
Can I use a different nut butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes, you can substitute peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or any other nut or seed butter you prefer. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture might vary slightly depending on the type of butter you use.
What if I don’t have coconut oil?
If you don’t have coconut oil, you can use melted butter (if not making it vegan) or replace it with more peanut butter. However, coconut oil is preferred because it helps the fudge set properly due to its solidifying properties when chilled.
How do I know when the fudge is set?
The fudge is set when it is firm to the touch and holds its shape when cut. This usually takes about 1 hour in the freezer.
Can I add extra ingredients to the fudge?
Absolutely! You can customize your fudge by adding chopped nuts, dried fruit, dark chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for added flavor and texture.
Is this fudge suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes, this fudge is gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and refined sugar-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs. Just be sure to check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they meet your specific dietary requirements.
How should I store the fudge if I don’t want to freeze it?
While this recipe is designed for freezer storage, you can store the fudge in the refrigerator if you prefer a softer texture. Keep it in an airtight container and consume within a week.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double or even triple the recipe. Just make sure you have a large enough container or multiple containers to accommodate the increased quantity.
What if my fudge is too soft?
If your fudge is too soft, it may need more time to set in the freezer. Ensure your freezer is at the correct temperature. If the fudge remains too soft, you might need to add a bit more melted coconut oil to help it firm up.
Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, you can experiment with different liquid sweeteners such as agave nectar, brown rice syrup, or even date syrup. Just keep in mind that each sweetener will bring its own unique flavor to the fudge.
More easy and healthy no-bake desserts
- Healthy Dark Chocolate Bounty Recipe (made with just 5 ingredients)
- Easy & Healthy No-Bake Mini Triple Chocolate Cheesecakes
- No-Bake Protein Twix Bites
- Easy and Healthy No-Bake Carrot Cake Bars Recipe
- Mini No-Bake Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecakes (easy & healthy)
- Easy No-Bake Biscoff Cheesecake: Perfect & Quick Recipe
Hey! If you make this recipe, I would love it if you could leave me some feedback and a rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ in the comment section at the bottom of the page! Also, let me know on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest! I can’t wait to hear your thoughts and see your photos!
No Bake Peanut Butter Fudge
Equipment
- Fork or Whisk
- Small Baking Tin or Container
Ingredients
- 250 g Peanut Butter (1 cup)
- 80 g Liquid Sweetener (¼ cup)
- 50 g Coconut Oil (¼ cup)
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- Pinch of Salt
Instructions
- Grease a small baking tin or container with coconut oil and line with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- In a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan, melt the coconut oil until liquid.
- In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, melted coconut oil, liquid sweetener, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Add a pinch of salt if using unsalted peanut butter for extra flavor.
- Optional: Stir in any additional mix-ins like chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared tin and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Place the tin in the freezer and freeze for at least 1 hour, or until the fudge is firm and set.
- Once frozen, remove the fudge from the tin using the parchment paper and cut into squares or bars. Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the freezer.
Video
Notes
- Use Natural Peanut Butter: Opt for natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the mixture before freezing and adjust the amount of liquid sweetener according to your preference.
- Customize with Mix-Ins: Experiment with mix-ins like chopped nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips to personalize your fudge.
- Smooth Texture: Ensure the coconut oil is completely melted and whisk the ingredients until smooth to achieve a creamy fudge consistency.
- Chill Thoroughly: Allow the fudge to freeze until firm for at least 1 hour before slicing to ensure neat, clean cuts.
- Store Well: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks to maintain freshness and texture.
Nutrition
Leave a comment below if you make this Peanut Butter Fudge!
Isn’t all fudge no-bake?
Yes, that is in fact correct. But a lot of fudge is made on the hob – so perhaps I should have said “no cook” fudge. Haha.