Healthy Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and spiced flavors.

• No baking required, making them quick and easy to prepare.

• Festive pumpkin shape that’s great for holidays or parties.

• Can be made ahead and stored for later.

• Fun to make with kids or as a creative kitchen project.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened at room temperature
• ½ cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 ½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• ½ cup graham cracker crumbs
• ⅓ cup white chocolate chips
• Orange food coloring (or red and yellow food colorings),
• optional
• Granulated sugar, as needed, for rolling
• Chocolate chips, for topping

Directions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, combine the butter, cream cheese, pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir constantly until thickened and well combined.

2. Stir in the graham cracker crumbs and white chocolate chips until melted and smooth. Add food coloring if desired.

3. Continue stirring until the mixture pulls away cleanly from the sides and bottom of the skillet.

4. Pour the mixture onto a butter-greased baking sheet, spreading evenly. Refrigerate for about 2 hours or overnight until firm.

5. Rub butter on your hands, then roll the chilled mixture into small balls.

6. Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat.

7. Use a toothpick to create pumpkin-like ridges on the truffles.

8. Place a chocolate chip on top of each truffle to resemble a pumpkin stem.

9. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Servings and timing

• Yield: About 20 truffles

• Prep Time: 25 minutes

• Chill Time: 2 hours

• Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Variations

• Use dark or milk chocolate chips instead of white chocolate for a richer flavor.

• Roll truffles in crushed graham crackers or cinnamon sugar instead of plain sugar.

• Add a splash of vanilla extract for extra depth of flavor.

• Skip the food coloring if you prefer a natural look.

• Top with mini pretzel sticks or candy stems instead of chocolate chips.

Storage/Reheating

Store pumpkin cheesecake truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Do not reheat, as they are best enjoyed chilled.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes, but make sure it is well-cooked and drained to remove excess moisture, or the mixture may be too soft.

Do I have to use food coloring?

No, the food coloring is optional and only used to give the truffles a festive pumpkin-orange hue.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. They can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until serving.

Can I freeze pumpkin cheesecake truffles?

Yes, they freeze well for up to 2 months. Let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs?

You can use crushed gingersnap cookies, vanilla wafers, or digestive biscuits for a different flavor twist.

How do I keep the mixture from sticking to my hands?

Rub a small amount of butter or oil on your hands before rolling the truffles.

Can I make these without condensed milk?

Sweetened condensed milk is key to the creamy texture and sweetness. Substituting may change the consistency and flavor.

Do they need to be refrigerated?

Yes, because of the cream cheese and pumpkin puree, they must be stored in the fridge.

Can I use a different spice blend?

Yes, you can replace pumpkin pie spice with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.

How do I make the pumpkin ridges look more realistic?

Use a toothpick or the back of a butter knife to press light vertical lines around each truffle before adding the chocolate stem.

Conclusion

Pumpkin cheesecake truffles are a delightful, no-bake treat that combines creamy pumpkin goodness with festive presentation. They’re easy to make, versatile with variations, and perfect for sharing at holiday parties or savoring as a cozy fall dessert. With their sweet, spiced flavor and charming pumpkin shape, they’re sure to impress anyone who tries them.

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