1.Creamy Peanut Butter Fluff
Creamy peanut butter fluff is a no-bake dessert that’s quickly become a favorite in modern kitchens and potluck tables alike. With its irresistible blend of smooth peanut butter, fluffy whipped topping, and chunks of candy, this dessert is as indulgent as it is easy to make. It’s the kind of treat that draws crowds at parties, satisfies late-night cravings, and disappears fast from any dessert table.
Unlike traditional desserts that require baking and precise timing, peanut butter fluff is a throw-together-and-chill kind of treat. What sets it apart is the creamy texture of peanut butter meeting the lightness of whipped topping and the sweet burst of mini marshmallows. This isn’t just another pudding mix dessert—it’s a peanut butter fluff dip layered with texture and flavor.
The magic happens when you fold in chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, creating a dreamy blend of chocolate and peanut butter in every bite. This is where this fluff recipe truly stands out. You can even trace the roots of this dessert style back to fluff salads, a nostalgic staple of vintage American cuisine, as seen in Wikipedia’s entry on Fluff Salad.
For those looking to explore more ways to use peanut butter in sweets, this Pinterest collection of peanut butter desserts offers endless inspiration. But if you want a fast, satisfying, and flavor-packed dessert, this creamy peanut butter fluff is your go-to solution.

2. What Is Fluff Dessert?
Fluff desserts are a beloved American classic, often served at gatherings, potlucks, and family holidays. These chilled, no-bake dishes are typically made by combining instant pudding, whipped topping, mini marshmallows, and various mix-ins like fruit or candy. What makes them so appealing is their simplicity, versatility, and comforting texture—light, airy, and perfectly sweet.
Originating in the mid-20th century, fluff salads became a staple in American households. These retro creations often featured colorful ingredients and whimsical names like “ambrosia salad” or “watergate salad.” While technically classified as salads, they’re firmly planted in the dessert category. According to Wikipedia’s dessert article, these types of dishes fall under cold or chilled desserts, popular especially during warmer months or holiday feasts.
At the heart of any good fluff is the whipped topping, often made from commercial whipped cream products like Cool Whip. This adds the signature airiness and makes the dessert easy to mix and mold. You can learn more about how this works by visiting Wikipedia’s whipped cream page.
Today’s peanut butter fluff variation brings a modern and indulgent twist to the classic. By incorporating creamy peanut butter and chopped Reese’s, the dessert evolves from simple to crave-worthy. It also taps into the popularity of no-bake desserts, a trend growing rapidly across platforms like Pinterest, where easy no-bake fluff recipes attract thousands of home bakers.
If you’re craving something rich, fluffy, and nostalgic with a peanut butter punch, creamy peanut butter fluff is the dessert to try.
3. Why Peanut Butter Fluff Is a Must-Try
Peanut butter fluff isn’t just another dessert—it’s a texture and flavor experience that satisfies nearly every sweet craving. With its ultra-creamy base, bursts of chocolate from Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and the light chewiness of mini marshmallows, it hits all the right dessert notes. What makes it even more appealing is how effortless it is to prepare—no baking required and just a few pantry staples.
This dessert is ideal for:
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Busy families who want a quick, crowd-pleasing treat
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Peanut butter lovers craving something sweet and rich
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Holiday hosts looking for something fun, easy, and make-ahead
Its creamy texture comes from the whipped topping, which blends beautifully with the pudding and peanut butter to create that signature fluffiness. Add-ins like chocolate chips and marshmallows enhance the dessert’s playful bite.
Not only is this fluff delicious, it’s endlessly customizable. You can layer it into trifles, use it as a dip, or simply serve it chilled in a bowl. Its versatility makes it a go-to dessert for any occasion.
And for those interested in the key component behind this flavor, learn more about the star ingredient by visiting Wikipedia’s peanut butter page. You can also get inspired with creative spins by browsing this Pinterest board on marshmallow dessert inspiration. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a casual snacker, creamy peanut butter fluff is a recipe that belongs in your collection.
4. Ingredient Spotlight & Substitutions
Understanding each ingredient in creamy peanut butter fluff not only helps you perfect the texture and flavor but also gives you the flexibility to adapt the recipe to your preferences or dietary needs. Below is a breakdown of each component, its role in the recipe, and how you can switch things up if needed.
4.1 Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix
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Provides a thick, creamy base
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Sweetens the dessert without needing extra sugar
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Helps bind the whipped topping and peanut butter
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Substitutions: Use chocolate or banana pudding mix for a flavor twist
Vanilla pudding’s role in fluff is similar to its function in other cold desserts, helping stabilize the mix without overpowering the taste. You can learn more about this foundational dessert element in Wikipedia’s article on dessert, which outlines its use in no-bake recipes.
4.2 Cold Milk
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Activates the instant pudding
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Controls the dessert’s consistency
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Needs to be cold for proper thickening
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Substitutions: Almond, oat, or soy milk work for dairy-free versions (choose thicker types for best texture)
For an even fluffier consistency, reduce the milk slightly. This results in a denser pudding, making the final product sturdier and better for layering in parfaits.
4.3 Creamy Peanut Butter
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The star ingredient that adds richness and flavor
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Combines with whipped topping for a smooth, luscious texture
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Substitutions: Almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter for nut-free or alternative diets
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Avoid natural peanut butters that separate—they can cause the fluff to become oily or too loose
If you’re curious about how peanut butter behaves in recipes, the Wikipedia entry on peanut butter offers background on its composition and stability. These characteristics explain why commercial creamy peanut butter works best in no-bake desserts.
4.4 Whipped Topping
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Adds airiness and volume
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Balances the richness of peanut butter
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Substitutions: Homemade whipped cream (though it may deflate faster) or vegan whipped toppings like Cocowhip
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Important: Fold gently to maintain fluffiness
Whipped topping is a defining component of fluff. For more on the science behind its light structure, see Wikipedia’s whipped cream article.
4.5 Mini Marshmallows
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Provide chewy texture and classic fluff identity
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Add visual appeal and sweetness
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Substitutions: Flavored marshmallows, vegan marshmallows, or omit for a smoother texture
Mini marshmallows are what connect this dessert to its retro fluff salad roots. They give the dessert structure and nostalgia in every bite. For visual inspiration, check out these Pinterest holiday fluff recipes.
4.6 Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
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Deliver bold peanut-chocolate flavor
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Add crunch and surprise in every spoonful
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Substitutions: Use mini Reese’s, peanut butter M&Ms, Butterfinger pieces, or Snickers chunks
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Chop finely for even distribution or leave chunky for texture
This candy component transforms a basic fluff into a decadent Reese’s fluff dessert. According to Wikipedia’s Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups article, Reese’s is one of the most popular candies in the U.S., and its signature pairing with peanut butter makes it ideal for this recipe.
4.7 Mini Chocolate Chips (Optional)
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Enhance the chocolate notes
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Add extra texture
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Substitutions: Dark chocolate chips, white chocolate, or omit entirely if preferred
Adding chocolate chips makes the dessert more indulgent, appealing especially to chocolate lovers. For more creative options and candy mix-ins, browse these Pinterest fluff recipe ideas.
These ingredients come together to form a dessert that’s creamy, sweet, and full of fun textures. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect no-bake peanut butter fluff. Whether you’re making it for a casual snack or a festive event, knowing how to adapt it makes this recipe endlessly

5. Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating creamy peanut butter fluff is incredibly easy and doesn’t require any baking or special equipment. Follow these clear steps to make the perfect batch every time:
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Whisk the Pudding Mix
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together one box (3.4 oz) of instant vanilla pudding mix and 1½ cups of cold milk.
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Whisk for about 2–3 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken.
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Let it sit for a minute to fully set.
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Add Peanut Butter
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Add 1 cup of creamy peanut butter to the thickened pudding.
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Stir until smooth and fully incorporated with no lumps remaining.
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A smooth texture here ensures your fluff will be creamy.
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Fold in Whipped Topping
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Gently fold in one 8 oz container of thawed whipped topping (like Cool Whip).
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Use a spatula and fold slowly to maintain the airiness.
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Avoid overmixing to keep the mixture light and fluffy.
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Mix in the Add-ins
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Add 1½ cups of mini marshmallows, 1 cup of chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and ½ cup of mini chocolate chips (optional).
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Gently fold everything together until evenly distributed.
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Chill Before Serving
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Cover the bowl and refrigerate the fluff for at least 1 hour.
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This helps the flavors blend and gives the fluff the perfect consistency.
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This no-fail method delivers a smooth, rich, and indulgently fluffy dessert every time. Want more inspiration on how to serve or present it? Explore creative serving ideas on Pinterest’s peanut butter desserts page.
6. How to Serve Peanut Butter Fluff Dip
One of the best features of peanut butter fluff dip is its versatility. It can be served in numerous fun, shareable, or elegant ways depending on the occasion.
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As a Dip:
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Serve in a bowl with dippables like:
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Graham crackers
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Apple slices
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Pretzel sticks
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Nilla wafers
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Chocolate chip cookies
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In Cups or Jars:
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Layer in mini dessert cups with crushed cookies for an individual serving idea
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Top with extra chopped Reese’s and a drizzle of chocolate syrup
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As a Dessert Topping:
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Spoon over brownies, pancakes, or cupcakes
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Use as a filling in crepes or sandwich between cookies
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The fluff also works great on a dessert charcuterie board. Looking for visual ideas? Browse this Pinterest board of marshmallow dessert inspiration.
7. Peanut Butter Fluff Variations
Once you’ve mastered the classic, try one of these fun twists to keep your fluff desserts exciting and seasonally appropriate.
7.1 Chocolate Peanut Butter Fluff
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Swap out vanilla pudding for chocolate pudding mix
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Use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate
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Add chocolate syrup drizzle on top before chilling
7.2 Banana Peanut Butter Fluff
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Use banana cream pudding mix instead of vanilla
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Add thin banana slices just before serving
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Top with crushed vanilla wafers for a pudding-style dessert
7.3 S’mores Peanut Butter Fluff
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Add crushed graham crackers and mini chocolate bars
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Use toasted marshmallows as a topping
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Serve with graham crackers for dipping
7.4 Holiday-Themed Fluff
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Add red and green M&Ms for Christmas, or pastel marshmallows for Easter
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Use themed candy mix-ins depending on the season
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Layer with seasonal cookies or sprinkles for a festive look
These variations can easily be found in creative spins on Pinterest holiday fluff recipes, making it easy to adapt the base recipe to any celebration.
8. Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Peanut butter fluff is ideal for preparing ahead of time, making it convenient for parties and gatherings.
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Refrigeration:
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Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
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Stir gently before serving to refresh texture
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Freezing:
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Not recommended—freezing can alter the consistency of whipped topping and pudding
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If needed, freeze in individual portions and thaw in the fridge
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Transport Tips:
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Great for potlucks—store in a tightly sealed bowl and keep chilled until serving
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Add candy toppings like extra Reese’s or chips just before serving for best texture
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Keeping your fluff fresh ensures the right balance of creamy and fluffy with each serving.
9. Common Mistakes to Avoid
While this recipe is very forgiving, a few missteps can affect texture and taste.
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Overmixing:
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Whipped topping should be folded in gently to keep the dessert airy
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Avoid using a whisk or electric mixer after adding it
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Using Natural Peanut Butter:
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Natural types separate and can lead to oily fluff
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Always use processed creamy peanut butter for stability
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Skipping Chill Time:
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Flavors need time to meld
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Chilling also firms up the pudding base, giving it a fluffier texture
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Adding Too Many Mix-Ins:
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Overloading with candy or marshmallows can make the texture dense and overly sweet
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Stick to the suggested measurements or reduce if adding additional items
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Avoiding these mistakes ensures every batch is as dreamy as the last.
10. Nutrition & Allergen Info
This recipe is rich, indulgent, and definitely a treat—perfect for special occasions.
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Estimated Calories (per serving): ~300–350 (based on 10 servings)
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Key Allergens:
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Dairy (pudding, milk, whipped topping)
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Peanuts
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Soy (in processed ingredients like Reese’s)
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Allergy-Friendly Substitutions:
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Use non-dairy milk and whipped topping for lactose sensitivity
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Try sunflower seed butter in place of peanut butter for nut-free needs
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Choose allergy-friendly candy options for mix-ins
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Always check product labels if preparing for guests with dietary restrictions.

11. FAQs – Based on “People Also Ask”
What is peanut butter fluff made of?
Peanut butter fluff is made with instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, creamy peanut butter, whipped topping, mini marshmallows, and chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Optional ingredients like mini chocolate chips add extra flavor and texture.
Can I make peanut butter fluff without Cool Whip?
Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream or a dairy-free whipped topping. Keep in mind that homemade whipped cream is less stable and should be served sooner after preparation.
Can I freeze peanut butter fluff?
Freezing is not recommended as it can cause the whipped topping to break down and change the dessert’s texture. For best results, refrigerate and consume within three days.
What do you eat with peanut butter fluff?
It’s commonly served as a dip with graham crackers, pretzels, or fruit. It can also be used as a topping for brownies, pancakes, or eaten on its own.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter in this recipe?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly different. Crunchy peanut butter adds more bite but may also make the dessert a bit less smooth.
Fluff Desserts Made Simple Creamy Peanut Butter Fluff You Will Crave
This creamy peanut butter fluff is the ultimate no-bake dessert. Rich, fluffy, and bursting with the irresistible combo of peanut butter and chocolate, it’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or an easy weeknight indulgence. Mini marshmallows and chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups give every bite a playful mix of textures, while the whipped topping keeps it light and airy. Chill it, serve it, and watch it disappear fast.
- Author: Andrea
Ingredients
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 ½ cups cold milk
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
In a large bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened.
Add the peanut butter and stir until smooth and fully incorporated.
Fold in the whipped topping gently until no streaks remain.
Add mini marshmallows, chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and mini chocolate chips (if using). Mix gently to combine.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow it to set and the flavors to blend.
Serve chilled and enjoy.
Notes
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Use full-fat ingredients for the creamiest texture
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Make ahead and chill overnight for a more developed flavor
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Adjust the amount of candy or chocolate based on sweetness preference
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Fold ingredients gently to maintain fluffiness
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For a more decorative look, top with extra Reese’s and a drizzle of chocolate syrup before serving



