Pumpkin Fudge Recipe

Irresistible Homemade Pumpkin Fudge Recipe: Fall’s Sweetest Treat

Rich, velvety pumpkin fudge upgrades ordinary dessert moments into extraordinary autumn indulgences.

Seasonal warmth radiates through every decadent bite of this classic sweet treat.

Creamy textures meld with deep, aromatic spices that capture the essence of fall’s most beloved ingredient.

Delicate notes of cinnamon and nutmeg dance alongside the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth consistency that defines exceptional fudge.

Crafting this confection requires minimal ingredients but promises maximum satisfaction for dessert enthusiasts.

Homemade confections like these connect us to cherished memories and culinary traditions passed through generations.

You’ll find this recipe both simple to prepare and impossible to resist.

Tips to Make Pumpkin Fudge Extra Creamy

  • Choose Quality Pumpkin: Select pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to maintain the authentic flavor and prevent excess moisture in your fudge.
  • Control Chocolate Melting: Melt white chocolate slowly and gently to prevent scorching, which can create a grainy texture and bitter taste.
  • Measure Spices Precisely: Use fresh ground spices for the most vibrant flavor, and level your measuring spoons to ensure balanced seasoning throughout the fudge.
  • Prevent Cracking: Allow the fudge to come to room temperature gradually after chilling to avoid surface cracks and maintain a smooth, creamy texture.
  • Store Smartly: Keep the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

How to Store Pumpkin Fudge for Snacking Later

  • Refrigerate: Store the pumpkin fudge in an airtight container within the refrigerator for up to one week. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Freeze: Wrap individual fudge pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to three months without losing flavor or texture.
  • Thaw: Remove frozen fudge from the freezer and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. Bring to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for the best taste and smooth consistency.

What to Pair with a Piece of Pumpkin Fudge

  • Pair with Warm Spiced Chai: Brew a fragrant chai tea that complements the pumpkin's warm spices, creating a cozy autumn flavor explosion.
  • Match with Toasted Pecan Crunch: Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans on top of the fudge to add a delightful nutty texture and enhance the seasonal richness.
  • Serve alongside Cinnamon Whipped Cream: Whip fresh cream with a dash of cinnamon to create a light, creamy accompaniment that elevates the fudge's sweet profile.
  • Combine with Maple Bourbon Drizzle: Create a decadent maple bourbon sauce to drizzle over the fudge, intensifying its deep autumn essence and adding a sophisticated adult twist.

Flavor Variations for a New Take on Pumpkin Fudge

  • Autumn Spice Swirl: Replace half the white chocolate with dark chocolate for a deeper, richer flavor profile that complements the warm pumpkin spices.
  • Nutty Pumpkin Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before chilling, adding a delightful textural contrast to the smooth fudge.
  • Maple Pumpkin Dream: Swap vanilla extract with pure maple syrup and add a drizzle of maple syrup on top for an extra layer of autumnal sweetness.
  • Salted Caramel Pumpkin: Drizzle homemade salted caramel sauce over the fudge before setting, creating a decadent sweet-and-salty combination that elevates the classic recipe.

Why Pumpkin Fudge Is the Coziest Bite of Fall

  • Effortless Autumn Indulgence: Whip up this pumpkin fudge with minimal kitchen skills, creating a decadent treat that captures the cozy essence of fall in just a few simple steps.
  • Rich Flavor Explosion: Packed with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, this fudge delivers an intense, creamy taste that dances between sweet white chocolate and classic pumpkin pie flavors.
  • Quick No-Bake Comfort: Requiring no oven time and just about 15 minutes of preparation, this recipe offers a stress-free dessert perfect for last-minute gatherings or sudden sweet cravings.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Seasonal Delight: Versatile enough for holiday parties, Halloween celebrations, or a simple weekend treat, this fudge appeals to both kids and adults with its smooth texture and nostalgic autumn profile.

Ingredients You Need for Pumpkin Fudge

Sweet Base:
  • White Chocolate Chips: Creamy foundation of the fudge, rich and smooth texture with mild vanilla notes. High-quality chips ensure better melting and flavor.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Provides sweetness and silky consistency, acts as binding agent for smooth fudge texture.
Pumpkin Spice Blend:
  • Pumpkin Puree: Authentic pumpkin flavor and beautiful orange color, pure 100% pumpkin recommended for best results.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor profile with warm, sweet undertones.
Warm Spices:
  • Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves: Classic autumn spice combination that adds depth, warmth, and traditional pumpkin pie flavor. Ground spices ensure even distribution and intense aromatic profile.

How to Whip Up Pumpkin Fudge Fast

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Canvas

Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper, allowing extra paper to hang over the sides for easy lifting. Lightly grease the parchment with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Gather Your Ingredients

Collect all ingredients:
  • White chocolate chips
  • Sweetened condensed milk
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Vanilla extract
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Ground nutmeg
  • Ground cloves

Step 3: Create the Chocolate Base

Combine white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Heat on low, stirring constantly until chocolate melts completely and mixture becomes silky smooth. Use gentle, continuous motion to prevent scorching.

Step 4: Infuse with Autumn Flavors

Remove from heat and quickly mix in:
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Vanilla extract
  • Cinnamon
  • Nutmeg
  • Cloves

Stir until spices are evenly distributed and create a uniform orange-tinted mixture.

Step 5: Transform Into Fudge

Pour the warm mixture into prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread evenly and create a smooth surface. Tap the pan gently to release any air bubbles.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Place pan in refrigerator for 4-6 hours or overnight. Fudge should become firm and hold its shape when touched.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Remove fudge from pan using parchment paper edges. Cut into small squares using a sharp knife. Serve chilled and enjoy the warm, spicy flavors of autumn.

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Pumpkin Fudge Recipe

Pumpkin Fudge Recipe


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4.7 from 28 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Creamy pumpkin fudge brings autumn’s warmth to dessert tables with rich spices and smooth texture. Chocolate lovers will savor this seasonal treat that combines classic holiday flavors in one irresistible bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 24 ounces (680 grams) white chocolate chips
  • 8 ounces (237 milliliters) sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 ½ tablespoons (37.5 milliliters) 100% pumpkin puree

Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/8 teaspoon cloves

Instructions

  1. Prepare a metal baking vessel by carefully lining it with parchment paper, allowing extra material to extend beyond the edges for convenient extraction of the finished confection.
  2. Select a robust saucepan with heavy bottom to prevent potential scorching during the melting process.
  3. Combine white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in the saucepan, utilizing low thermal intensity to gradually dissolve the ingredients.
  4. Continuously whisk the mixture, ensuring smooth integration and preventing potential burning at the bottom of the cookware.
  5. Remove the pan from heat once the chocolate and milk transform into a uniform, glossy liquid without any visible lumps.
  6. Introduce pumpkin puree into the molten mixture, stirring with deliberate, sweeping motions to guarantee even distribution.
  7. Incorporate warming spices like ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, blending thoroughly to create a harmonious flavor profile.
  8. Gently fold in vanilla extract, which will enhance the overall aromatic complexity of the confection.
  9. Transfer the velvety mixture into the prepared receptacle, using a flexible spatula to spread the contents evenly and eliminate potential air pockets.
  10. Place the pan in the refrigeration unit, allowing the fudge to solidify and develop its characteristic dense texture for approximately four to five hours.
  11. Once completely chilled and set, extract the fudge by lifting the parchment paper edges.
  12. Slice the confection into precise, uniform squares using a sharp knife warmed under hot water to ensure clean cuts.
  13. Serve the pumpkin fudge at a cool room temperature to optimize flavor and textural experience.

Notes

  • Prepare a workspace with all ingredients measured and ready to streamline the fudge-making process.
  • Aluminum foil creates a non-stick surface and helps lift the fudge cleanly from the pan without breaking.
  • Stirring condensed milk prevents clumping and ensures a silky-smooth texture throughout the fudge.
  • White chocolate melts best under gentle, consistent heat to avoid scorching or separating.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 232
  • Sugar: 32 g
  • Sodium: 40 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg
Alex Reed

Alex Reed

Founder & Lead Content Writer

Expertise

Recipe Development and Testing​, Culinary Education​, Food Writing and Blogging​, Sustainable Cooking Practices, Global Cuisine Exploration

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and contemporary cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu development. Emphasized hands-on experience in diverse culinary traditions.​

Le Cordon Bleu Paris

  • Program: Diplôme de Cuisine
  • Focus: Advanced instruction in French culinary techniques, including sauce preparation, pâtisserie, and haute cuisine.​

Alex Reed is an inventive chef and food creator with a passion for dishes that balance taste, health, and sustainability. 

Trained at Portland Community College and holding an Advanced Pastry Arts certificate from Oregon Culinary Institute, Alex brings more than 10 years of practical culinary experience to every recipe he develops. 

His background uniquely blends traditional cooking skills with modern, mindful eating principles. As the founder of Beard and Bonnet, Alex creates recipes that encourage readers to cook confidently.

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