Pumpkin Fudge Recipe

Quick & Charming Pumpkin Fudge Recipe for Autumn Sweetness

Creamy, decadent pumpkin fudge captures the essence of autumn’s warmth in every delightful bite.

Sweet spices dance through this irresistible treat, promising a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Rich textures blend seamlessly with classic seasonal flavors.

Comfort emerges from each delicate square, whispering memories of cozy kitchen moments.

Minimal ingredients create maximum satisfaction in this simple dessert.

Craving something special that screams fall?

Follow along and craft a magical confection that will become your new seasonal favorite.

Why Pumpkin Fudge Is A Rich Dessert

  • Capture Seasonal Warmth: Dive into a dessert that embodies the cozy essence of autumn with rich pumpkin flavor and warming spices.
  • Minimal Ingredient Magic: Create a delectable treat using just a few simple pantry staples, making this recipe a breeze to prepare for any skill level.
  • Quick Crowd-Pleaser: Craft a no-bake dessert that requires minimal cooking time and delivers maximum flavor, perfect for gatherings or spontaneous sweet cravings.
  • Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by adjusting spice levels or adding toppings like chopped nuts or a drizzle of caramel to make it uniquely yours.

Ingredients For Pumpkin Fudge

Main Ingredients:
  • White Chocolate Chips: The base that creates the smooth and creamy texture of the fudge.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Provides rich sweetness and helps bind the fudge together.
  • Pumpkin Puree: Adds classic autumn flavor and a beautiful orange color to the dessert.
Spice Blend:
  • Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves: These warm spices contribute a traditional pumpkin pie flavor profile and create a cozy seasonal taste.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and rounds out the sweet and spicy flavors of the fudge.
Preparation Support:
  • Aluminum Foil: Helps line the pan for easy removal and clean cutting of the fudge.

How To Prepare Pumpkin Fudge

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Vessel

Line a square baking pan with aluminum foil, ensuring complete coverage of the bottom and sides. Smooth out any wrinkles to create a perfect surface for your fudge. Press the foil gently into the corners for a neat finish.

Step 2: Create a Silky Chocolate Base

Combine white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Use low heat to melt the ingredients, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula. For microwave method, heat at 50% power in short bursts, mixing between each interval until the mixture becomes completely smooth and glossy.

Step 3: Infuse with Pumpkin Spice Magic

Add the following ingredients to the melted chocolate mixture:
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Vanilla extract
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Freshly grated nutmeg
  • Ground cloves

Stir vigorously until all spices are thoroughly incorporated, creating a rich, aromatic blend that fills your kitchen with warm autumn scents.

Step 4: Set and Chill

Carefully pour the fudge mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly, ensuring a smooth top surface. Place the pan in the refrigerator and allow it to set completely. This typically takes about 4-5 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 5: Slice and Savor

Remove the fudge from the refrigerator and lift out using the foil edges. Peel back the foil and place the fudge on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut into bite-sized squares. Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, spiced delight that captures the essence of fall in every bite.

Helpful Tips For Pumpkin Fudge

  • Thoroughly stir sweetened condensed milk before using to prevent separation and ensure smooth texture.
  • Use low heat or microwave method when melting white chocolate chips to avoid burning and maintain creamy consistency.
  • Add warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves gradually, tasting to balance flavors without overwhelming pumpkin taste.
  • Refrigerate fudge for minimum four hours to achieve perfect set and allow spices to develop deeper flavor profile.
  • Line pan with aluminum foil for easy removal and clean cutting of fudge squares, preventing sticky residue.

Variations To Try With Pumpkin Fudge

  • Chocolate Swirl Pumpkin Fudge: Create marbled patterns by adding melted dark chocolate and swirling through the pumpkin mixture before refrigerating.
  • Nutty Crunch Pumpkin Fudge: Fold chopped pecans or walnuts into the mixture for added texture and rich autumn flavor.
  • Salted Caramel Pumpkin Fudge: Drizzle homemade caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle with sea salt before chilling for a gourmet touch.
  • Maple Pecan Pumpkin Fudge: Replace vanilla extract with maple syrup and mix in toasted pecans for a deep, woodsy sweetness.

Best Pairings For Pumpkin Fudge

  • Warm Chai Latte Companion: Rich, spicy chai tea perfectly mirrors the pumpkin pie flavors in the fudge, creating a cozy autumn taste explosion that warms your soul and complements the sweet, creamy texture.
  • Bourbon Vanilla Delight: Smooth bourbon with vanilla notes cuts through the sweetness, providing a sophisticated adult twist that enhances the fudge's warm spice profile and adds depth to each bite.
  • Coffee Caramel Connection: Dark roast coffee with a hint of caramel brings out the deep, rich undertones of the pumpkin and spices, creating a harmonious balance between bitter and sweet that elevates the dessert experience.

Storage Advice For Pumpkin Fudge

  • Seal leftover pumpkin fudge in an airtight container, placing wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keep refrigerated for up to 7 days.
  • Wrap individual fudge pieces in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for maximum 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
  • Store in a cool, dry place inside a sealed container for 2-3 days, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
  • Thaw frozen fudge in the refrigerator overnight. For room temperature serving, let sit at ambient temperature for 15-20 minutes to soften slightly before enjoying.

Common Questions About Pumpkin Fudge

  • Why use white chocolate chips in this recipe?

White chocolate chips provide a creamy, smooth base that complements the pumpkin and spices, creating a rich and indulgent fudge texture.

  • Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin puree?

No, use pure pumpkin puree. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and spices that will alter the fudge’s consistency and sweetness.

  • How do I know if I've melted the chocolate correctly?

The mixture should be smooth and free of lumps, with a consistent color and no visible chocolate chip chunks. Stir frequently to prevent burning.

  • Is this fudge suitable for people who don't like intense pumpkin flavor?

Yes, the spices and white chocolate balance the pumpkin, creating a subtle and mild pumpkin taste that’s not overwhelming.

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Pumpkin Fudge Recipe

Pumpkin Fudge Recipe


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4.6 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 16 1x

Description

Indulgent Pumpkin Fudge brings autumn’s warmth straight to your dessert table, melding rich spices with creamy sweetness. Sweet pockets of seasonal comfort await when you savor each delectable bite of this irresistible treat.


Ingredients

Scale

Pumpkin Fudge Ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 cups white chocolate chips
  • 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons (37.5 milliliters) 100% pumpkin puree

Spices:

  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/8 teaspoon cloves

Flavor Enhancer:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the workspace by lining an 8-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil, ensuring complete coverage of the bottom and sides for easy removal.
  2. Vigorously whisk the sweetened condensed milk to eliminate any potential separation and create a smooth consistency.
  3. Create the fudge base by gently melting white chocolate chips with sweetened condensed milk. Use a double boiler method or microwave in 30-second intervals at 50% power, stirring between each interval until the mixture becomes completely smooth and glossy.
  4. Incorporate pumpkin puree into the melted chocolate mixture, then add vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Stir thoroughly until the spices are evenly distributed and the color becomes uniform.
  5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and eliminate any air pockets. Ensure the surface is level and smooth.
  6. Refrigerate the fudge for 4-5 hours or overnight until it becomes completely firm and set.
  7. Remove the fudge from the refrigerator, lift out of the pan using the foil edges, and slice into neat squares using a sharp knife. Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Ensure the pan is lined perfectly with foil to make removal and cutting of fudge effortless.
  • Stir sweetened condensed milk thoroughly to prevent any lumpy texture that might affect the final smoothness.
  • Use fresh, high-quality pumpkin puree for the most vibrant and authentic seasonal flavor.
  • Microwave melting requires careful attention to prevent chocolate from burning or seizing, so stir frequently and use low power settings.
  • For a gluten-free version, verify all ingredients are certified gluten-free before preparing.
  • Sprinkle extra ground cinnamon on top for enhanced visual appeal and aromatic warmth.
  • Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain optimal texture and freshness.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Melting
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 16
  • Calories: 262
  • Sugar: 26 g
  • Sodium: 22 mg
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 8 mg
Samantha Lee

Samantha Lee

Recipe Developer & Content Creator

Expertise

Plant-based and vegetarian recipes, Recipe testing and development, Food blogging and digital content creation, Culinary education and workshops​

Education

Oregon Culinary Institute (Portland, OR)

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Emphasized plant-based cooking, global cuisines, and recipe testing methodologies.​

Samantha sees cooking like painting, every fresh herb, every juicy tomato, a new splash of color on a canvas.
After graduating from Oregon Culinary Institute, she blended her love of global cuisines and plant-based cooking into recipes that feel fresh, fearless, and full of heart.
Samantha’s kitchen is a place where comfort food gets a modern remix and every meal feels like a little adventure. When she’s not cooking, she’s out exploring farmers’ markets, sketching new recipe ideas, or getting her hands dirty in a community garden.

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