This Pumpkin Pie Fudge is like a cozy fall hug in a bite! With creamy pumpkin, warm spices, and a smooth texture, it’s a special treat everyone will love.
Making this fudge is super easy; just mix, pour, and chill! I like to cut it into little squares for sharing with friends. Plus, you get the taste of pumpkin pie without the crust fuss! 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Chocolate Chips: These give the fudge its sweet and creamy base. If you prefer a darker flavor, you can use milk chocolate chips, but the fudge will be less pumpkin pie-like. I prefer white chocolate for its smooth taste.
Canned Pumpkin Puree: Make sure it’s plain pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. If you don’t have pumpkin, butternut squash puree can be a good substitute!
Pumpkin Pie Spice: This blend of spices is essential for that classic pumpkin pie flavor. If you don’t have it, you can mix equal parts cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg as a substitute. I often add a pinch of ground cloves for extra warmth.
Chopped Walnuts: They add a nice crunch, but you can replace them with pecans or leave them out if you prefer a smoother texture. I like using mixed nuts for more variety!
How Do You Ensure Your Fudge Is Smooth and Creamy?
A smooth fudge starts with melting the chocolate chips properly. Don’t rush this step! Here’s how:
- Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to avoid burning.
- Once the chocolate is melted and smooth, be sure to fully mix in the ingredients like pumpkin and spices.
- Make sure your mixture is evenly combined before pouring it into your pan.
Chilling in the fridge after pouring keeps the fudge from separating and helps it set perfectly. Patience is key!
How to Make Pumpkin Pie Fudge
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree (preferably not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pumpkin Pie Fudge takes about 15 minutes of prep time, and then it needs at least 2 hours in the refrigerator to set properly. So, plan for a total of around 2 hours and 15 minutes to enjoy your tasty treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan:
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Leave a little extra paper hanging over the sides. This will help you lift the fudge out later, making it easy to cut into pieces. Simple, right?
2. Melt the Chocolate:
In a large microwave-safe bowl, mix together the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Microwave this mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval. Keep going until everything is melted and smooth. This step is key, so be patient and stir well!
3. Mix in the Flavor:
Now that your chocolate is melted, it’s time to add the pumpkin flavor! Stir in the pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until everything is well combined. The mix should be creamy and nicely blended.
4. Add Nuts (If You Want):
If you like a little crunch, fold in the chopped walnuts at this point. They’re optional, so it’s totally okay to skip them if you prefer a smooth fudge.
5. Pour and Spread:
Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan and use a spatula to spread it evenly. Pat it down, making sure it’s nice and level on the top.
6. Chill Out:
Pop the pan into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until the fudge is firm. This is the hardest part—waiting to dig in!
7. Cut and Enjoy:
Once set, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper and place it on a cutting board. Cut it into small squares. These bite-sized treats are perfect for sharing or just enjoying yourself.
8. Store Any Leftovers:
If you have any fudge left (which might be a challenge!), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It’ll be just as tasty as the day you made it!
Enjoy your creamy, spiced Pumpkin Pie Fudge as the ultimate fall treat!
Can I Use Dark Chocolate Instead of White Chocolate?
Yes, you can use dark chocolate or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate, but this will change the flavor profile. Dark chocolate will give a deeper taste, while milk chocolate will add sweetness. Just keep in mind that it won’t taste as much like pumpkin pie!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Fudge?
Store any leftover fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin, but you’ll need to cook and puree it first. Make sure to remove any excess moisture from fresh pumpkin before using it in the recipe, as canned pumpkin has a thicker consistency that helps the fudge hold together.
Can I Add Other Mix-ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative! You can add chocolate chips, a drizzle of caramel, or other chopped nuts to customize the flavor of your fudge. Just make sure not to overload it, as too many mix-ins might affect the fudge’s texture.
