BY CHEF KATIE MIST

Pumpkin Fudge

This Pumpkin Fudge is a decadent treat beyond comparison. Winner, winner, Pumpkin Fudge for dinner (fine, dessert)! The ingredients are so simple that the Pumpkin Fudge comes together in a snap. It's sinfully rich, buuuuuuut it also happens to be loaded with nutrient-dense goodness from the pumpkin. Pumpkin is one of those foods that is so good for you, but doesn't get as much attention as say, kale. Pumpkin is high in antioxidants, immunity-supporting vitamins, TONS of fiber, and also has compounds that promote skin health. Do yourself a solid, make this pumpkin fudge and see for yourself.

Pumpkin Fudge

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups semi sweet chocolate chips

• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree

• 1 ½-2 tablespoons maple syrup (per desired sweetness)

• 2 teaspoons vanilla

• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Prepare a springform pan by lining it with plastic wrap, with enough overhang to cover the fudge mixture once it’s in the pan.

2. If you don’t have a springform pan, you can also use a bowl, mini loaf pans, or really any old vessel that will hold the mixture. We use two mini springform pans, putting half of the mixture in each one.

3. To melt the chocolate, place chips in a microwave safe bowl.

4. Microwave for about 45 seconds, the stir.

5. Microwave for 15-20 seconds, then stir.

6. Continue this until chocolate is fully melted and smooth.

7. In a food processor add pumpkin, melted chocolate, syrup, vanilla and salt. Blend for about 30 seconds, or until well combined.

8. Scrape down the sides of the bowl if necessary, to make sure everything is incorporated evenly.

9. Scrape the mixture into the prepared pan(s) and smooth out the top so it’s even.

10. Gently tap the pan on the countertop to ensure the mixture is evenly distributed and gets into all of the corners.

11.Wrap the excess plastic wrap over the top to cover well, gently pressing it down to slightly condense the mixture.

12. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

13. Using the plastic wrap, pull the chilled fudge out of the pan.

14. Unwrap and turn out onto a plate to serve.