Peanut Butter Hot Fudge

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There are few things more satisfying than the combination of chocolate and peanut butter—and this Peanut Butter Hot Fudge takes that match made in heaven to a whole new level. I remember the first time I poured it over a scoop of vanilla ice cream, watching it slowly melt into the creamy cold surface, creating swirls of rich, nutty, chocolatey goodness. It was the kind of indulgence that instantly made the moment feel special, even if it was just a random Tuesday night.

This recipe isn’t just about dessert—it’s about comfort and simplicity. In just a few minutes, you can whip up a thick, luscious sauce that transforms anything from ice cream to brownies into a decadent treat. I’ve tested this Peanut Butter Hot Fudge countless times, tweaking the balance between cocoa and peanut butter until it was just right. Whether you spoon it over your favorite dessert or sneak a taste straight from the jar, I promise it will hit the spot.

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Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Hot Fudge

This sauce hits all the right notes: creamy, rich, velvety, and deeply flavorful. The peanut butter adds a nutty depth that plays perfectly with the bittersweet edge of the cocoa. It only takes about 10 minutes to make, and you likely have all the ingredients in your pantry already. Whether you’re making an ice cream sundae bar, drizzling it over pancakes, or gifting it in a cute jar, this fudge sauce always impresses.

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What Kind of Peanut Butter Should I Use?

You can use creamy or chunky peanut butter depending on your texture preference. For the smoothest, silkiest result, I recommend using a traditional creamy peanut butter like Jif or Skippy. Natural peanut butters can work too, but be sure to stir them thoroughly and expect a slightly thinner texture. Avoid using flavored or sweetened varieties, as they can throw off the balance of the sauce.

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Options for Substitutions

If you’re avoiding dairy, swap the butter with a plant-based alternative and use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream. Want to make it vegan? Double-check your chocolate chips to make sure they’re dairy-free. Almond or cashew butter can stand in for the peanut butter, bringing their own unique spin. You can also play with the sweetness by using maple syrup or honey instead of white sugar, just keep in mind the flavor change.

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Ingredients for this Peanut Butter Hot Fudge

• Cocoa Powder: This gives the sauce its deep chocolate flavor. Use unsweetened cocoa powder for a rich and slightly bitter chocolate base.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar balances the bitterness of the cocoa and sweetens the entire sauce perfectly.
• Milk or Heavy Cream: Adds richness and helps achieve that smooth, pourable consistency. Heavy cream will give you the most indulgent texture.
• Butter: Helps thicken the sauce while also adding richness and a glossy finish.
• Peanut Butter: The star ingredient that adds nutty flavor and creamy texture. It blends perfectly with chocolate.
• Vanilla Extract: Just a touch adds warmth and rounds out the flavor.
• Salt: A pinch of salt brings out all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.

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Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium saucepan (preferably nonstick), whisk together the cocoa powder and sugar. This helps prevent clumping and ensures the dry ingredients are fully blended before adding liquids.

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Step 2: Add Milk and Heat Gently

Pour in the milk or cream and stir until combined. Turn the heat to medium and stir constantly as the mixture warms up. Do not boil—it should just be steaming hot.

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Step 3: Stir in Butter and Peanut Butter

Once the mixture is warm and smooth, add the butter and peanut butter. Stir continuously as they melt and incorporate into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy consistency.

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Step 4: Simmer and Thicken

Let the sauce simmer gently for about 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently. It will begin to thicken slightly. Keep an eye on it—don’t let it scorch or boil over.

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Step 5: Finish with Vanilla and Salt

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Give the sauce one final stir to ensure everything is smooth and fully blended.

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Step 6: Serve or Store

Let the sauce cool slightly before serving warm over desserts. If not using immediately, transfer to a clean jar or container. The sauce will thicken more as it cools, but you can reheat it to bring back its pourable consistency.

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How Long to Prepare the Peanut Butter Hot Fudge

This recipe is incredibly quick, making it perfect for last-minute dessert needs or spontaneous cravings.

Prep Time: About 5 minutes — It takes just a few minutes to gather and measure the ingredients, especially if you’re using pantry staples like cocoa powder and peanut butter.

Cook Time: Roughly 7–10 minutes — Heating and blending everything together on the stove is quick, but you’ll want to give the sauce a couple of minutes to simmer and thicken.

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Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Hot Fudge

• Use high-quality cocoa powder for the richest chocolate flavor.
• Stir constantly while heating to prevent burning or clumping.
• If using natural peanut butter, make sure it’s well-stirred and smooth.
• Don’t skip the salt—it enhances and balances the sweet and nutty flavors.
• For a pourable sauce, use immediately. For a thicker spread-like texture, let it cool completely.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overheating the mixture: Boiling can cause the sauce to break or become grainy.
• Using low-fat milk: It can lead to a thin or less creamy sauce. Whole milk or cream is ideal.
• Not stirring constantly: This sauce thickens quickly and can scorch easily if left unattended.
• Adding vanilla too early: Heat can reduce the potency of vanilla, so add it after cooking.
• Skipping measurements: Eyeballing the cocoa or peanut butter can throw off the balance.

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What to Serve With Peanut Butter Hot Fudge?

1. Vanilla Ice Cream

The classic pairing. The hot fudge melts into the cold scoop for the ultimate contrast.

2. Brownies

Drizzle it over warm brownies for a double dose of chocolate heaven.

3. Pancakes or Waffles

Swap your syrup for this hot fudge and thank me later. It turns breakfast into dessert.

4. Fresh Sliced Bananas or Apples

Use as a dip for fruit—it’s decadent and fun for kids and adults alike.

5. Milkshakes

Blend into a milkshake or simply drizzle it on top for extra indulgence.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container or jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. The sauce will thicken when cold, so warm it up before using.

Reheating: Microwave in 15- to 20-second intervals or warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk if it thickens too much.

Freezing: This fudge sauce freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container and thaw in the fridge before reheating. Stir well after thawing.

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Estimated Nutrition (per serving – approx. 2 tablespoons)

• Calories: 160
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 5mg
• Sodium: 60mg
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 15g
• Protein: 3g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chunky peanut butter?

Yes, though the texture will be thicker and less smooth. It works well as a topping for more texture.

How do I make this vegan?

Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk (like oat or coconut), and dairy-free chocolate chips if adding.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just make sure to use a larger saucepan and stir continuously to avoid burning.

What if my sauce is too thick?

Add a splash of milk or cream and stir gently over low heat until it loosens.

Is this safe for kids?

Yes! It’s made with simple ingredients and contains no preservatives or alcohol.

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Conclusion

Peanut Butter Hot Fudge is more than just a sauce—it’s a quick way to make anything feel like a celebration. It takes basic ingredients and turns them into something special, in under 15 minutes. Whether you’re hosting guests, treating yourself, or just trying to elevate dessert night at home, this fudge sauce delivers rich, nutty, chocolatey bliss in every spoonful. Once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought again.

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