Chocolate Peanut Butter Freezer Fudge

Cookies and milk, grilled cheese and tomato soup, spaghetti and meatballs–the list of my favorite iconic duos goes on and on. But above most anything, chocolate and peanut butter always seems to reign supreme. Anyone agree?

Well, my boyfriend, Sam, most certainly thinks so, considering he’s the most chocolate peanut butter-crazed person I know. And for a boy who claims “he’s not that into sweets”, that’s saying something  .

So I occasionally whip up a treat (like my Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Chickpea Blondies) to honor this love and keep him from reaching for Reese’s on the reg. I have nothing against this candy, but I know that I can create a less processed, more nutritious version in no time.

And the best part of this particular easy, healthy recipe? It requires no baking, which is a major bonus on these 100+ degree Austin summer days or just when I want a treat without the hassle of turning on the oven.

For this dreamy fudge, only a few ingredients are needed and the freezer gets to do the rest of the work. The main components, of course, are creamy peanut butter and cacao (or cocoa) powder, which can both be found in my pantry at any point in time.

Plus, the sweetness in this fudge only comes from dates, which eliminates the need for any artificial or refined sugars. Dates are also high in antioxidants, fiber and nutrients for a naturally sweet treat straight out of nature.

It’s no question that chocolate is delicious and satisfying, but it’s also one of the best and tastiest sources of nutrients. Packed with antioxidants, soluble fiber and essential minerals such as iron, magnesium, manganese, copper, zinc and selenium, dark chocolate can actually support healthy digestion, brain function and much more.

And while peanuts are actually legumes rather than nuts, they too bring their own health benefits to the table in this dreamy recipe. Peanuts are full of protein and fiber and have an abundance of vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals to prevents disease and fight against aging.

As for the cute little treats you see in the center of these fudgey bites, I used Ocho Organics Peanut Butter Minis. These candies are some of my favorite, because they’re vegan, gluten-free, fair trade certified and non-GMO. Not to mention just so dang cute and delicious.

You can find Ocho candies in many large retailers, as well as online. If you can’t get your hands on any, feel free to use any chocolate peanut butter candies you love, or omit completely. The result will be great regardless!

Once you mix all of the ingredients together, allow to chill and set up in the freezer. Then feel free to cut and enjoy right then and there or store in the fridge for a treat all week long. Fudge has a tendency to melt pretty quickly, though, so keep your napkins at the ready.

Whether or not you’re a fellow chocolate peanut butter fanatic like Sam and myself, I can guarantee that this easy, delicious fudge will make the list of your own favorite iconic duos!