Pumpkin Fudge Recipe – Easy No-Bake Fall Dessert

This page may contain affiliate links. See disclosure for details.

Pumpkin Fudge brings the cozy warmth of autumn right to your kitchen. Creamy, spiced, and made with wholesome ingredients, this no-bake treat is your ticket to easy seasonal indulgence. With cashew butter and coconut butter as the base, each bite melts in your mouth with velvety richness. Whether you’re a beginner or just want a fuss-free dessert, this recipe is for you. Just mix, chill, and slice—no stovetop or candy thermometer needed. Ready to impress friends, share at potlucks, or hoard for yourself (we won’t tell)? Pumpkin fudge has never been this easy—or this delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Fudge

Get ready to fall hard for this creamy pumpkin fudge recipe. It’s a seasonal classic made modern—with a better-for-you twist:

  • Naturally Dairy-Free: Cashew butter and coconut butter bring creaminess without any cream.
  • No-Bake Simplicity: Forget stovetops and thermometers—just mix and chill.
  • Warm and Spiced: Pumpkin purée and pumpkin pie spice give it that comforting fall flavor.
  • Perfect for Gifting or Snacking: Slice into squares, wrap them up, or enjoy straight from the fridge.

Once you taste it, you’ll be making pumpkin fudge on repeat.

The Story Behind Pumpkin Fudge

Pumpkin fudge is a modern twist on a nostalgic classic, blending seasonal ingredients with simple techniques. Here’s a quick look at its background:

  • Born from Classic Fudge Traditions: While traditional fudge uses dairy and chocolate, this version offers a plant-based spin.
  • Fall Flavor Favorite: Pumpkin spice has become the ultimate fall flavor, from lattes to desserts like this one.
  • Coconut and Cashew Appeal: Healthier fats from nut butters bring a whole new level of richness.
  • Beloved by Allergy-Friendly Kitchens: Many variations are naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan.
Pumpkin Fudge

Key Ingredients in Pumpkin Fudge

Here’s what makes this version of pumpkin fudge so special:

  • Cashew Butter – Provides the creamy, nutty base that holds the fudge together.
  • Coconut Butter – Melted for a smooth texture and solidifies beautifully when chilled.
  • Maple Syrup – Adds natural sweetness with warm caramel notes.
  • Pumpkin Purée – Gives earthy sweetness and that iconic autumn color.
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice – Delivers the cozy, cinnamon-forward spice you expect.
  • Sea Salt – Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors.

How to Make Pumpkin Fudge: Stir, Chill, Slice!

1. Whisk the Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, add cashew butter, melted coconut butter, maple syrup, pumpkin purée, pumpkin pie spice, and sea salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

2. Prepare the Pan

Spray a 9×5 loaf pan with non-stick spray. Line with parchment paper, letting it hang over the sides to help lift the fudge out later.

3. Pour and Smooth

Transfer the mixture to the loaf pan and use a spatula to spread it evenly across the top.

4. Chill Until Firm

Place the pan in the fridge for several hours (or overnight) until the fudge is fully set and firm to the touch.

5. Slice Into Squares

Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge from the pan. Slice into bite-sized squares with a clean, sharp knife.

Pumpkin Fudge Tips and Twists

Make your pumpkin fudge even better with these easy tricks and creative twists:

5 Tips for Success:

  • Use runny cashew butter for the smoothest texture.
  • Melt coconut butter fully for easy mixing—warm it gently if needed.
  • Whisk well to avoid streaks of coconut or nut butter.
  • Line the pan with parchment for easy, clean removal.
  • Refrigerate, don’t freeze—it sets better and holds texture.

3 Variations to Try:

  • Add crushed pecans for a nutty crunch.
  • Top with shredded coconut before chilling for a pretty finish.
  • Drizzle with melted dark chocolate for contrast and richness.
Pumpkin Fudge

Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips

Keep your pumpkin fudge fresh and delicious with these simple storage strategies:

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
  • Reheating: No reheating needed, but you can let it sit at room temp for 5–10 minutes for a softer bite.
  • Make-Ahead: Make it up to 3 days ahead—it actually tastes better after sitting!

Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Fudge

Pumpkin fudge may be small in size, but it makes a big impact on your table. Try these ideas:

  • Serve with warm chai or spiced tea for a cozy treat.
  • Create a fall dessert board with sliced apples, cookies, and this fudge.
  • Package in cellophane bags for an easy edible gift or party favor.
  • Plate alongside other bars or truffles for a Thanksgiving sweets spread.
  • Enjoy as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up with your favorite coffee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use almond butter instead of cashew butter?
Yes! It’ll be slightly less sweet and more nutty, but still delicious.

Is coconut butter the same as coconut oil?
No—they’re different. Coconut butter includes the flesh of the coconut and is much thicker.

Can I make this sugar-free?
You can try a sugar-free maple substitute, but texture and flavor may change slightly.

Does it have to be refrigerated?
Yes, it stays firm and fresh in the fridge. It will soften at room temp.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Pumpkin Fudge

Enjoy Your Pumpkin Fudge

You did it! You made a batch of dreamy, creamy pumpkin fudge without a fuss. This melt-in-your-mouth treat proves that fall desserts don’t have to be complicated to be impressive. Whether you’re sharing with friends or savoring every square solo, pumpkin fudge delivers the cozy, spiced magic of autumn in every bite. So go ahead—slice up some happiness and share the fall love.

Explore More Recipes You’ll Love

Ready to keep the cozy flavors coming? Try these recipes next:

Pumpkin Fudge
Print

Pumpkin Fudge Recipe – Easy No-Bake Fall Dessert

This pumpkin fudge is rich, creamy, and packed with cozy spice. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients—no baking required. Perfect for beginners!
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American, vegan
Keyword dairy-free pumpkin fudge, easy pumpkin treat, fall dessert, no-bake fudge, pumpkin fudge
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 16 squares
Calories 150kcal
Author Abby Marlow

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cashew butter 250g
  • 1 cup coconut butter melted (240ml)
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup 80ml
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin purée 57g
  • 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/8 tsp sea salt
  • Non-stick spray for loaf pan
  • Parchment paper for lining

Instructions

  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together cashew butter, melted coconut butter, maple syrup, pumpkin purée, pumpkin pie spice, and sea salt until smooth.
  • Spray a 9×5 loaf pan with non-stick spray. Line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  • Pour the pumpkin fudge mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  • Place the pan in the refrigerator and let chill for at least 3 hours, or until fully set.
  • Once firm, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper and transfer to a cutting board.
  • Slice into small squares and serve chilled.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Notes

For a crunchier texture, sprinkle chopped pecans on top before chilling. To switch it up, try almond butter instead of cashew butter. Pumpkin fudge is best served cold and slices clean when fully chilled.
Nutrition
Serving Size: 1 square
Calories: ~150 kcal (approximate)
Fat: 12g
Carbs: 9g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 2g

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating