Reese’s Fudge is a divine fusion of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter, making it the ultimate treat for lovers of this classic flavor combination. This incredibly simple recipe requires just three ingredients and minimal effort, making it your go-to solution for last-minute holiday desserts, thoughtful homemade gifts, or simply satisfying a sweet craving. Prepare to be amazed by how quickly you can create an irresistibly smooth, melt-in-your-mouth fudge that will have everyone reaching for more. Whether you’re making a small batch just for yourself or doubling it to share with friends and family, this Reese’s Fudge is destined to become a beloved favorite.

Reese's Fudge pieces in a bowl, showcasing the rich chocolate and peanut butter cup chunks. — Decadent Reese’s Fudge, ready to be enjoyed.

Contents

Easy 3-Ingredient Reese’s Fudge: Your Go-To Holiday Treat

Welcome to the world of effortless indulgence! If you’re searching for a dessert that combines incredible flavor with remarkable ease, look no further than this Reese’s Fudge recipe. In just a few simple steps, you can create a batch of creamy, dreamy fudge studded with your favorite peanut butter cups. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make this sensational treat, from selecting the best ingredients to expert tips for perfect results every time.

Why This Reese’s Fudge Recipe is a Must-Try

There are countless reasons why this Reese’s Fudge stands out in a crowded field of dessert recipes. For starters, its simplicity is unparalleled. With only three core ingredients, it eliminates the need for complex techniques, candy thermometers, or extensive baking knowledge. This makes it perfect for busy individuals, novice cooks, or anyone who appreciates a shortcut to deliciousness.

Beyond its ease, the flavor profile is simply irresistible. The harmonious blend of rich chocolate and savory peanut butter creates a taste sensation that appeals to nearly everyone. Each bite delivers that classic sweet and salty combination, enhanced by the delightful texture of chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. It’s a treat that melts luxuriously in your mouth, leaving you craving just one more piece.

This fudge isn’t just easy; it’s also incredibly versatile. It’s the ideal candidate for holiday gift baskets, potlucks, bake sales, or a simple weeknight dessert. The ability to whip up such a crowd-pleasing confection in minutes makes it an invaluable addition to your recipe collection. It’s no wonder this recipe is a close favorite to our other beloved treats like Cookies and Cream Oreo Fudge and Rocky Road Fudge – each offering its unique twist on a classic candy concept.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this Reese’s Fudge offers a homemade touch without the stress. It’s a wonderful way to spread joy and share a little sweetness with those you care about, proving that some of the best things in life truly are simple.

Essential Ingredients for Reese’s Fudge

Creating this decadent fudge requires only three key ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving its perfect texture and flavor. The beauty of this recipe lies in its minimalist approach, proving that you don’t need a pantry full of exotic items to make something extraordinary.

Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is the magical ingredient that gives our fudge its incredibly creamy, smooth, and rich texture without the need for traditional fudge-making techniques. It acts as both a sweetener and a binder, ensuring your fudge sets beautifully. Opt for a good quality brand for the best results.
Chocolate Chips: The foundation of any great chocolate fudge! While milk chocolate chips offer a classic, sweeter flavor that pairs wonderfully with peanut butter, semi-sweet chocolate chips can be used for a slightly less sweet, more intense chocolate experience. You can even experiment with a mix of both! Ensure your chocolate chips are fresh for optimal melting and flavor.
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups Candy: The star of the show! Any size of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups will work, but regular or miniature cups are often easiest to chop and distribute evenly throughout the fudge. Chopping them into bite-sized pieces ensures that delicious peanut butter explosion in every square of fudge. Don’t be afraid to leave some pieces larger for more dramatic peanut butter pockets!

Ingredient Quality Matters

While this recipe is incredibly forgiving, using high-quality ingredients can elevate your fudge from good to absolutely phenomenal. Fresh chocolate chips will melt more smoothly, and premium sweetened condensed milk will provide a richer base. Don’t skimp on the Reese’s – their distinctive peanut butter flavor is what makes this fudge truly special.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Reese’s Fudge

Making this Reese’s Fudge is as easy as 1-2-3! Follow these straightforward steps to create a batch of delectable chocolate peanut butter fudge that will impress everyone.

Prepare Your Pan: Start by lining an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This crucial step will make it incredibly easy to lift the fudge out once it’s set, allowing for clean cuts. Leave an overhang on the sides to use as handles. Set the prepared pan aside.
Chop the Reese’s Cups: Unwrap your Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and chop them into your desired size pieces. Some prefer smaller bits for even distribution, while others like larger chunks for a more pronounced peanut butter presence. Set the chopped candy aside.
Melt the Chocolate Mixture: In a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Place the saucepan over low to medium-low heat. Stir the mixture constantly with a spatula or wooden spoon to prevent the chocolate from scorching. Continue stirring until the chocolate chips are completely melted and the mixture becomes smooth, glossy, and well combined. This usually takes just a few minutes. Avoid high heat, as it can cause the chocolate to seize or burn.
Assemble the Fudge: Once your chocolate mixture is perfectly smooth, immediately pour it into the prepared square pan. Use a spatula to spread the fudge evenly across the bottom of the pan.
Incorporate the Reese’s Candy: While the fudge is still warm and soft, sprinkle the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups generously over the surface. Gently press them into the fudge mixture using your hand or the back of a spoon to ensure they adhere and are partially submerged. This creates those beautiful pockets of peanut butter goodness.
Cool and Set: Place the pan in the refrigerator and allow the fudge to cool and set completely. This typically takes at least 2 hours, but for best results, let it chill for 3-4 hours or even overnight. Once firm, use the foil or parchment paper overhangs to lift the fudge out of the pan.
Cut and Serve: Carefully peel off the lining. Place the fudge on a cutting board and cut it into small, even squares. A sharp, warm knife can help achieve cleaner cuts. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Pro Tip for Smooth Melting:

If you prefer, you can also melt the chocolate chips and condensed milk in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until the mixture is smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can become grainy.

Peanut Butter Cup Fudge squares on a pristine white plate, garnished for presentation. — Perfectly set Peanut Butter Cup Fudge, ready to be devoured.

Storage and Shelf Life for Reese’s Fudge

Proper storage is key to keeping your Reese’s Fudge fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Whether you prefer it chilled or at room temperature, these tips will help maintain its quality.

Refrigerator Storage

For optimal freshness and a firmer texture, I highly recommend storing your Reese’s Fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When stored correctly, it will last beautifully for up to 2 weeks. The cool temperature helps maintain its shape and prevents it from becoming too soft, especially in warmer environments. If you enjoy chilled chocolate treats, this method is ideal.

Freezer Storage

Reese’s Fudge is also excellent for freezing, making it perfect for meal prepping ahead of holidays or for enjoying a sweet treat whenever a craving strikes. To freeze, wrap individual fudge pieces or the entire block tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy frozen fudge, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or in the refrigerator for a few hours, until it reaches your desired consistency. Freezing can slightly alter the texture, making it a bit chewier, but it remains incredibly delicious.

Tips for Gifting and Transporting

If you’re making this fudge as a gift, ensure it’s fully set and chilled before packaging. Cut it into uniform squares and place them in a decorative tin or box, often separated by small sheets of parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking. For transport, especially in warmer weather, a cooler bag can help keep it firm and presentable.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Reese’s Fudge

While this recipe is incredibly straightforward, a few expert tips can ensure your fudge turns out perfectly every single time, yielding a professional-quality treat that’s smooth, flavorful, and irresistibly appealing.

Low and Slow Melting is Key: Patience is a virtue when melting chocolate and condensed milk. Use low to medium-low heat and stir continuously. High heat can cause the chocolate to burn, seize, or become grainy, ruining the smooth texture. A double boiler method can also be used for extra gentle melting, though a saucepan over low heat works perfectly well with attentive stirring.
Don’t Overcook the Mixture: Once the chocolate chips are fully melted and the mixture is smooth, remove it from the heat immediately. Continuing to cook it can lead to a harder, crumbly fudge rather than the desired soft, creamy texture.
Chop Reese’s Evenly: For the best distribution of peanut butter flavor and texture, chop your Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups into relatively uniform pieces. This ensures every bite gets a good mix of chocolate fudge and peanut butter candy.
Line Your Pan Properly: Don’t skip lining your pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang on the sides. This step is a game-changer for easy removal and clean cutting, preventing the fudge from sticking and tearing.
Chill Thoroughly: Allowing the fudge to chill completely (at least 2-4 hours, or overnight) is essential for it to set properly and achieve its firm, sliceable consistency. Rushing this step will result in a soft, messy fudge.
Achieve Clean Cuts: For perfect squares, use a sharp knife. For even cleaner cuts, run your knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and then slice through the fudge. Repeat this process for each cut.
Customization is Encouraged: Feel free to experiment! Add a pinch of sea salt to the top for an enhanced flavor contrast, or mix in other chopped nuts or candies for added texture. A drizzle of melted peanut butter or chocolate on top can also add an extra touch of gourmet appeal.

By following these simple professional tips, you’ll consistently create batches of Reese’s Fudge that are not only delicious but also beautifully presented, making them perfect for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions About Reese’s Fudge

Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making this irresistible Reese’s Fudge.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Absolutely! While milk chocolate chips offer a classic, sweet profile, you can easily substitute them with semi-sweet chocolate chips for a richer, less sweet fudge. Dark chocolate chips can also be used for an intense chocolate flavor, or even white chocolate chips for a different twist, though the flavor pairing with Reese’s might change slightly. Feel free to mix and match to find your perfect balance!

Can I use the microwave instead of a saucepan to melt the chocolate?

Yes, the microwave is a great alternative! Place the chocolate chips and condensed milk in a large, microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each interval, until the mixture is smooth and melted. Be careful not to overheat, as chocolate can scorch quickly in the microwave. Stirring frequently is crucial for even melting.

How can I prevent my fudge from being too soft or too hard?

The key is in the melting process. If your fudge is too soft, it might not have been cooked quite long enough to fully integrate the ingredients, or it wasn’t chilled sufficiently. Ensure it’s cooked over low heat until completely smooth and then chilled for at least 2-4 hours. If it’s too hard or crumbly, it might have been overheated or cooked for too long, causing the sugars to crystallize. Always use low heat and remove from the stove as soon as it’s smooth.

Can I add other ingredients or toppings?

Definitely! This Reese’s Fudge is highly customizable. Consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the melted chocolate mixture for added depth of flavor. You could also sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for a delightful sweet and salty contrast. Other additions might include chopped nuts (like peanuts or walnuts), mini marshmallows, or a swirl of extra melted peanut butter on top before chilling.

Is this fudge gluten-free?

Generally, yes! Sweetened condensed milk and most brands of chocolate chips are naturally gluten-free. Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are also widely considered gluten-free in the US (always check the specific packaging for certified gluten-free labels, as formulations can vary). This makes it a fantastic dessert option for those avoiding gluten, but always verify ingredient labels if strict dietary restrictions apply.

Why is my fudge grainy?

Grainy fudge often results from sugar crystallization. This can happen if the chocolate mixture is stirred too vigorously after it has started to cool, or if it was cooked at too high a temperature, causing the sugar to form crystals. Using low heat and stirring just until smooth, then allowing it to cool undisturbed, can help prevent graininess.

More Delightful Holiday Candy Recipes:

If you loved this easy Reese’s Fudge, you’re in for a treat! Explore more of our favorite holiday candy recipes that are perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply indulging your sweet tooth.

Christmas Fudge
Easy Microwave Caramels
Oreo Fudge
Rocky Road Fudge

If you try this incredible Reese’s Fudge recipe and love it as much as we do, please let us know in the comments below! Your feedback and ratings help us continue to share delicious recipes with you. Don’t forget to rate it if you enjoyed it!

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Reese’s Fudge

This Reese’s Fudge is a 3-ingredient last-minute holiday fudge for chocolate and peanut butter lovers! Quick, easy, and addicting! Make a small batch just for you or a regular batch to share with friends and family!

Author:

Anna

5 from 9 votes (Average rating, not interactive)

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Prep Time

5

Cook Time

3

Total Time

8

Course
Dessert

Cuisine
American

Servings

32 servings

Calories

151 kcal

Ingredients

14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
3 cups milk chocolate chips
10 regular size Reese’s peanut butter cups chopped

Instructions

Line an 8″ or 9″ square pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Set aside.
Unwrap the Reese’s peanut butter cups and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
In a medium saucepan, combine the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Cook over low to medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and well combined. Do not overheat.
Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Immediately sprinkle the chopped Reese’s candy over the warm fudge and gently press them into the surface.
Cool the fudge in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until completely set and firm.
Once set, use the foil or parchment overhangs to lift the fudge out of the pan. Peel off the lining and cut the fudge into squares. Store in an airtight container.

Notes

Small Batch Variation: To make a smaller batch, use ½ can of sweetened condensed milk, 1 and ½ cups of chocolate chips, and 5 regular Reese’s peanut butter cups. Pour the mixture into a 9″ x 5″ bread loaf pan, lined with aluminum foil, and let set as directed.
Nutrition Disclaimer: Please note that the nutrition value can vary depending on the specific products and brands you use. The information provided below is an estimate. Always use a calorie counter or nutritional calculator you are familiar with for precise values.

Nutrition Information (Estimated Per Serving)

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