If you’re looking for a fun and festive dessert to bring to fall gatherings, these Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls are the perfect treat. Combining the rich, creamy flavor of cheesecake with the warm spices of pumpkin pie, these bite-sized delights are a hit during the autumn season. The smooth cream cheese and pumpkin mixture is rolled into little balls, dipped in silky white chocolate, and chilled to create a dessert that is as delicious as it is cute. Whether for a Thanksgiving spread, a Halloween party, or simply to enjoy during the cooler months, these cheesecake balls are guaranteed to satisfy your pumpkin cravings.
Not only are they incredibly easy to make, but they also offer the perfect balance of flavors. The spiced pumpkin filling is complemented by the crunchy graham cracker crumbs, while the white chocolate coating adds a touch of sweetness and smoothness. These little treats also make great gifts or party favors wrapped up in cellophane, so you can share the joy of fall wherever you go.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Fall Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice makes these cheesecake balls the perfect treat for autumn.
- No-Bake: These cheesecake balls require no baking, making them an easy and quick dessert option.
- White Chocolate Coating: The smooth and creamy white chocolate coating adds an indulgent touch to each bite.
- Make Ahead: These can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, making them a convenient dessert for any occasion.
- Kid-Friendly: With their fun size and delicious flavor, they’re perfect for kids and adults alike to enjoy!
Ingredients
- Cream cheese
- Pumpkin puree
- Pumpkin pie spice
- Vanilla extract
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Powdered sugar
- White chocolate chips
Variations
- Chocolate Coating: Swap the white chocolate for milk or dark chocolate for a different flavor.
- Nut Coating: Roll the cheesecake balls in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
- Add Cinnamon: Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top of the cheesecake balls for an additional spicy kick.
- Mini Cheesecake Balls: You can make smaller balls for bite-sized portions that are even easier to snack on.
How to Make the Recipe
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well-combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the graham cracker crumbs and powdered sugar until everything is well incorporated.
- Shape the Balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pumpkin cheesecake balls for about 30 minutes to firm up.
- Melt the White Chocolate: In a small bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring in between to avoid burning.
- Dip the Balls: Dip each chilled cheesecake ball into the melted white chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated, then place it back onto the baking sheet to set.
- Set the Chocolate: Refrigerate again until the chocolate has firmed up completely.
- Serve: Once the chocolate has set, serve the cheesecake balls and enjoy!
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing it with the other ingredients for a smooth consistency.
- Chill for Firmness: Chilling the cheesecake balls before dipping in the chocolate is important for preventing the balls from falling apart when coated.
- Work in Batches: If you’re making a large batch, work in small groups to ensure each ball is evenly coated with chocolate.
- Use Good Quality White Chocolate: For the best flavor, use high-quality white chocolate chips that melt smoothly.
How to Serve
- As a Sweet Snack: Serve these cheesecake balls as an afternoon snack or as a sweet bite at parties.
- On a Dessert Platter: Arrange them on a decorative platter for a festive touch at your fall gatherings.
- With Coffee or Tea: These cheesecake balls are delicious when paired with a hot drink like coffee, chai, or hot cocoa.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Storing Leftovers: Store the pumpkin cheesecake balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: You can also freeze the cheesecake balls before or after dipping them in chocolate. Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Refrigerating: Always refrigerate the cheesecake balls to maintain their shape and keep the white chocolate coating firm.
FAQs
- Can I use regular chocolate instead of white chocolate? Yes, you can substitute the white chocolate with milk or dark chocolate depending on your preference.
- Can I make these dairy-free? You could try using dairy-free cream cheese and non-dairy whipped topping for a dairy-free version.
- Do I need to bake the cheesecake balls? No, these are no-bake cheesecake balls that chill in the refrigerator to set.
- Can I add more spice to the filling? Yes! You can add extra pumpkin pie spice or even a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for more depth of flavor.
- How long do the cheesecake balls need to chill? Chill the balls for at least 30 minutes before dipping them in chocolate and allow them to set for an additional 30 minutes after dipping.
- Can I use another type of cookie crumb instead of graham crackers? Absolutely! You could use digestive biscuits, ginger snaps, or even speculoos cookies for a different flavor profile.
- How do I store these cheesecake balls? Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them.
- Can I dip the cheesecake balls in something other than chocolate? Yes, you can roll them in melted caramel, crushed nuts, or sprinkles for different textures and flavors.
- Are these cheesecake balls good for a crowd? Yes! They’re perfect for parties or gatherings since they’re easy to serve and fun to eat.
- Can I make the pumpkin cheesecake filling ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the filling a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to roll the balls and dip them in chocolate.
Conclusion
These Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls are a deliciously fun and festive fall treat that combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin and cheesecake in one bite-sized dessert. The creamy, spiced filling is perfectly complemented by the sweet white chocolate coating, making them irresistible. With their ease of preparation and ability to be made ahead, they’re a great option for any fall celebration or cozy gathering. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or keeping them all to yourself, these cheesecake balls are sure to bring joy to your taste buds!
PrintPumpkin Cheesecake Balls
- Total Time: 45 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 24 pumpkin cheesecake balls 1x
Description
These Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls are a perfect fall treat combining the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the seasonal flavors of pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice. Coated in smooth white chocolate, these bite-sized delights are sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions
-
Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together cream cheese, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until smooth. -
Add Dry Ingredients:
Stir in graham cracker crumbs and powdered sugar until well combined. -
Form the Balls:
Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. -
Chill:
Refrigerate the balls for 30 minutes to firm them up. -
Melt the White Chocolate:
In a small bowl, melt white chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. -
Coat the Balls:
Dip each chilled cheesecake ball into the melted white chocolate, then return to the baking sheet to set. -
Refrigerate:
Place the cheesecake balls back in the refrigerator until the white chocolate coating is firm. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the pumpkin cheesecake balls chilled and enjoy this seasonal treat!
Notes
- Storage Tip: Store the cheesecake balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Make Ahead: These can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a quick dessert or snack.
- Variation: For a fun twist, you can drizzle the white chocolate with dark chocolate for added flavor and decoration.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes