Freezer Pumpkin Fudge

This Freezer Pumpkin Fudge is super simple and incredibly delicious. You won’t believe how quick and easy it is to whip up – with the most minimal ingredients, yet the richest and creamiest taste. Give it a go and let me know how it was!

This tasty no bake Pumpkin Fudge is totally vegan and gluten free, making it the perfect snack for everybody. The festive spices make it the ideal sweet treat for around Christmas time!

For more delicious festive recipes, why not try my Soft Gingerbread Cookies, or my Dark Chocolate Fudge Bars, or my Vegan Gingerbread Cake with Lemon Icing?

If you make this Pumpkin Fudge, please make sure to tag me @ginabnutrition on Instagram, I love to see your recreations!

Why Didn’t My Fudge Get Hard?

If your fudge didn’t set properly and remained soft instead of becoming firm, there could be several reasons for this outcome. Here are some common factors that can lead to fudge not setting properly:

1. Temperature Not Reached: Fudge requires proper cooking to reach a specific temperature range (soft ball stage) where the sugar mixture sets. If the mixture didn’t reach the correct temperature, the fudge won’t set. Using a reliable candy thermometer to monitor the temperature accurately should help!
   
2. Undercooking: If you didn’t cook the fudge mixture long enough, it won’t have reached the necessary concentration and structure to set properly. The mixture should be brought to a full rolling boil and then cooked for the specified time in the recipe.
   
3. Overcooking: On the flip side, overcooking the fudge can lead to it becoming too hard and brittle rather than setting with a smooth texture. Be careful not to exceed the recommended cooking time.
   
4. Incorrect Ratios: The proportions of ingredients in fudge recipes are crucial for the final texture. Using too much liquid, not enough sugar, or not enough fat can affect the setting process. Follow the recipe closely and measure ingredients accurately.
   
5. Humidity: High humidity can impact the sugar crystallization process in fudge and prevent it from setting properly. Fudge-making on humid days can be challenging. You might need to adjust the recipe or cooking time to compensate for humidity.
   
6. Stirring Issues: Stirring the fudge mixture too vigorously or not enough can affect the sugar crystallization process. Over-stirring can introduce unwanted sugar crystals, while under-stirring can result in uneven setting.
   
7. Cooling Process: Proper cooling is essential for fudge to set. If you rushed the cooling process by placing the fudge in the refrigerator or freezer too soon, it might not have had enough time to properly crystallize and set.
   
8. Altitude: High altitudes can affect the boiling point of liquids, which can impact the fudge-making process. Adjusting the cooking temperature or time might be necessary at higher altitudes.
   
9. Pan Size: Using a pan that’s too large can spread the fudge mixture too thin, affecting its ability to set. Use a pan of the recommended size in the recipe.
   
10. Ingredients Not Incorporated Properly: If the ingredients weren’t mixed thoroughly, the fudge might not have set uniformly. Ensure that all ingredients are well combined during the cooking process.

If your pumpkin fudge didn’t set properly, you can try reheating the mixture and cooking it again to the appropriate temperature while closely monitoring it with a candy thermometer. Alternatively, you can repurpose the soft fudge as a sauce or topping for other desserts. Learning from the experience and being attentive to the factors listed above will help you achieve better results in your next fudge-making attempt.

The Ingredients For This Vegan Pumpkin Fudge

1. Pumpkin Puree: Pumpkin puree is the main flavor and ingredient of the fudge. It provides a rich, earthy flavor and a beautiful orange color. It also adds moisture to the fudge, helping to create a smooth and creamy texture.
   
2. Coconut Oil: Coconut oil adds a smooth and creamy texture to the fudge. Using refined coconut oil helps avoid the strong coconut flavor, allowing the pumpkin and spices to shine. It also contributes to the fudge’s richness.
   
3. Cashew Butter: Cashew butter contributes to the fudge’s creaminess and helps bind the ingredients together. It provides a mild nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin and spices.
   
4. Maple Syrup: Maple syrup adds sweetness and depth of flavor. It also contributes to the fudge’s smooth texture. The natural sweetness of maple syrup works well with the earthy pumpkin and warm spices.
   
5. Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor by balancing the sweetness and enhancing the other flavors in the fudge. It’s a crucial ingredient for achieving a well-rounded taste.
   
6. Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract adds a warm and comforting aroma and flavor to the fudge. It complements the pumpkin and spices, providing a well-rounded sensory experience.
   
7. Ground Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Cloves: These spices are essential for giving the fudge its characteristic pumpkin spice flavor. Cinnamon provides warmth, nutmeg adds depth and a slightly nutty flavor, while cloves contribute a hint of spiciness. Together, they create a harmonious blend of flavors associated with fall and pumpkin desserts.
   
8. Roughly Chopped Pecans (optional): Pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the fudge. They provide a contrasting texture to the creamy fudge base and enhance the overall sensory experience.

 

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