Pumpkin Fudge

A great easy recipe for Pumpkin Fudge! This creamy, sweet treat is perfect for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. With its rich flavor and festive pumpkin spice aroma, it stands out as an excellent choice for any occasion. Best of all, you won’t need a candy thermometer to create this delightful dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: You can whip up this fudge in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal last-minute treat.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of white chocolate and pumpkin puree creates a deliciously creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
• Festive Appeal: Its vibrant color and warm spices make it perfect for Halloween parties or Thanksgiving feasts.
• No Special Equipment Needed: Forget complicated candy-making tools; this recipe requires only basic kitchen supplies.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Enjoy it on its own or use it as a topping for ice cream or cakes.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Pumpkin Fudge, gather the necessary tools to streamline the process. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth experience from start to finish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium-sized saucepan
• 8×8 baking dish
• Parchment paper
• Rubber spatula or wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium-sized saucepan: Ideal for melting ingredients evenly without scorching them.
• 8×8 baking dish: Perfect size for setting the fudge while ensuring even thickness.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

A great easy recipe for Pumpkin Fudge! NO candy thermometer required!

• 3 cups premium white chocolate chips (I recommend using Ghirardelli, I do not always get consistent results using other brands.)
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (click the link for my homemade pumpkin spice recipe)
• 1 drop orange gel food coloring (optional, but it will give your fudge that Fall pumpkin color.)
• 1 Tablespoon cornstarch (sifted)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup white chocolate melting wafers

How to Make Pumpkin Fudge

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper and set aside. This will help you easily remove the fudge once it’s set.

Step 2: Melt the Base Ingredients

In a medium-sized saucepan over medium-low heat, combine:
1. white chocolate chips
2. sweetened condensed milk
3. unsalted butter

Stir frequently until chocolate chips and butter are mostly melted.

Step 3: Add Pumpkin and Spice

Add:
1. pumpkin puree
2. pumpkin pie spice

Stir well until all ingredients are completely combined and melted together. Reduce heat to low.

Step 4: Incorporate Remaining Ingredients

Mix in:
1. orange gel food coloring, if using
2. vanilla extract

Then stir in:
1. cornstarch

This helps to thicken the fudge slightly.

Step 5: Set the Fudge

Remove fudge from heat and spread it evenly into your prepared pan. Transfer fudge to the refrigerator and chill until firm (preferably overnight).

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches

Once the fudge has set, melt the white chocolate melting wafers according to package instructions and drizzle over the fudge for an extra touch of sweetness.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Slice into squares and enjoy your delicious homemade Pumpkin Fudge! Perfect for sharing or indulging on your own!

How to Serve Pumpkin Fudge

Pumpkin fudge is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or just indulging at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your pumpkin fudge experience.

With Warm Beverages

• Coffee: Pairing pumpkin fudge with a warm cup of coffee enhances the rich flavors.
• Hot Chocolate: The sweetness of hot chocolate complements the fudge perfectly.
• Spiced Tea: A cozy spiced tea brings out the autumn vibes when served alongside the fudge.

As a Dessert Platter

• Cheese Board: Include pumpkin fudge on a cheese board for an unexpected sweet addition.
• Fruit Slices: Fresh apple or pear slices provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy fudge.
• Nuts: Offer mixed nuts to add crunch and balance the sweetness of the fudge.

For Celebrations

• Party Favors: Cut pieces of pumpkin fudge and package them as seasonal party favors.
• Dessert Bar: Create a dessert bar featuring pumpkin fudge along with other fall treats.
• Gift Giving: Wrap up some fudge in festive packaging for a thoughtful homemade gift.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Fudge

To achieve the best results with your pumpkin fudge, consider these simple tips. With attention to detail, your fudge will turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Quality Chocolate: Premium white chocolate chips yield better flavor and texture than generic brands.
• Melt Slowly: Heat ingredients over medium-low heat to prevent burning and ensure smooth melting.
• Chill Overnight: Allowing the fudge to set overnight improves its consistency and flavor.
• Sift Cornstarch: Sifting prevents clumps, ensuring even distribution in your mixture.
• Customize Spice Levels: Adjust pumpkin pie spice according to your taste preference for a personal touch.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Fudge

Pumpkin fudge pairs beautifully with several side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options to consider serving alongside:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream contrasts nicely with the rich pumpkin flavor.
2. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel adds a decadent touch that complements the fudge’s sweetness.
3. Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce can balance the sweetness of the fudge effectively.
4. Gingerbread Cookies: These cookies amplify the fall flavors and make for a festive pairing.
5. Pecan Pie Bars: The nutty flavor of pecan pie bars works harmoniously with pumpkin treats.
6. Chocolate Chip Cookies: Classic cookies offer familiar comfort alongside your delicious pumpkin fudge.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin fudge is simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your batch. Here are some tips to ensure perfect results every time.

• Using low-quality chocolate: Opt for premium white chocolate chips like Ghirardelli. Cheaper brands may not melt well and affect the fudge’s texture.
• Skipping the cornstarch: This ingredient helps stabilize the fudge. Omitting it can result in a grainy texture.
• Not cooling properly: Allowing the fudge to set in the refrigerator overnight ensures it firms up correctly. Rushing this step can lead to a soft fudge.
• Overheating the mixture: Cooking on medium-low heat is essential. High heat can scorch the chocolate, ruining its flavor.
• Ignoring measurements: Be precise with your ingredient measurements, especially with sweetened condensed milk and pumpkin puree, as variations can alter taste and consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store pumpkin fudge in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• It will last for about 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Fudge

• Wrap individual pieces of fudge tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• Frozen pumpkin fudge can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Fudge

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place fudge on a baking sheet, and warm for 5-10 minutes until softened.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds at a time, checking frequently to avoid melting completely.
• Stovetop: Place fudge in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pumpkin Fudge?

Pumpkin fudge is a creamy, sweet confection made with white chocolate and pumpkin puree, flavored with warm spices like pumpkin pie spice.

Can I use fresh pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree; just ensure it is well-drained to avoid excess moisture that could affect the texture.

How do I customize my Pumpkin Fudge?

Feel free to add nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different spices according to your taste preferences.

What if my fudge is too soft?

If your pumpkin fudge isn’t setting properly, try adding more cornstarch or refrigerating it longer. The cold helps firm it up nicely.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Fudge recipe is not only easy but also incredibly versatile! Whether you enjoy it plain or with added ingredients like nuts or chocolate drizzle, it’s sure to be a hit during the fall season. Don’t hesitate to try this delicious treat!