Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles

Pumpkin cheesecake truffles are a bite-sized fall dessert that’s creamy, sweet, and irresistibly festive. With a smooth pumpkin cheesecake filling coated in sugar and topped with chocolate chip “stems,” these adorable treats resemble tiny pumpkins, making them perfect for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving gatherings, or as a fun edible gift.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cute, festive, and perfect for fall celebrations

• Rich pumpkin cheesecake flavor in every bite

• Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients

• No baking required—just chill, roll, and shape

• Fun project to make with kids or for parties

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 purée

• 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), optional

• Granulated sugar, for rolling

• Chocolate chips, for topping

Directions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, combine butter, cream cheese, pumpkin, condensed milk, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir constantly until mixture thickens.

2. Stir in graham cracker crumbs and white chocolate chips until melted and smooth. Add food coloring, if desired, for a brighter orange color.

3. Continue cooking until the mixture pulls away from the sides of the pan. Pour onto a greased baking sheet, spread evenly, and refrigerate until firm, about 2 hours or overnight.

4. Rub butter on your hands to prevent sticking. Roll chilled mixture into small balls.

5. Roll truffle balls in granulated sugar to coat.

6. Use a toothpick to make ridges along the sides, shaping them like pumpkins. Place a chocolate chip on top of each truffle to create a stem.

7. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Servings and timing

• Yield: 20 truffles

• Prep time: 30 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 45 minutes (plus chilling time)

Variations

• Chocolate coating: Dip truffles in melted white or dark chocolate before shaping.

• Nutty twist: Add crushed pecans or walnuts to the filling for crunch.

• Spice boost: Increase pumpkin pie spice or add cinnamon for stronger flavor.

• Vegan version: Use dairy-free cream cheese, coconut condensed milk, and vegan butter.

• Decorative option: Use green candy or pretzel sticks instead of chocolate chips for stems.

Storage/Reheating

Store truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months, then thaw in the refrigerator before serving. These truffles are best served chilled.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pumpkin purée instead of canned?

Yes, just be sure to drain excess liquid so the mixture thickens properly.

Why does the mixture need to pull away from the pan?

This ensures it’s thick enough to hold shape when rolled into truffles.

Can I make these without food coloring?

Yes, the truffles will still have a natural pumpkin-orange hue.

Do I have to coat them in sugar?

No, you can leave them plain, dip in chocolate, or roll in crushed cookies.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, they store well in the fridge for several days and taste great chilled.

Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of white in the filling?

Yes, though it will change both the flavor and color of the truffles.

How do I keep them from sticking to my hands?

Rub a little butter or oil on your hands before rolling.

Can I freeze pumpkin cheesecake truffles?

Yes, freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a container or bag. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin purée?

No, pie filling contains added sugar and spices that would make the truffles too sweet.

How do I make them look more like pumpkins?

Shape ridges with a toothpick and use chocolate chips, pretzel sticks, or candies as stems.

Conclusion

Pumpkin cheesecake truffles are the perfect no-bake fall treat—creamy, spiced, and festive. Their pumpkin shape makes them fun to serve at parties, while their rich cheesecake filling ensures they’re as delicious as they are adorable. Whether you’re preparing them for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or simply a seasonal indulgence, these truffles are sure to impress.