No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls Recipe

These No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls are a delicious fall treat, combining creamy, spiced pumpkin filling with a graham cracker coating for a perfect bite-sized dessert. They’re quick to make and packed with cozy autumn flavors, making them an ideal treat for pumpkin lovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: No oven needed, just mix, chill, roll, and serve.
• Perfect for Pumpkin Lovers: Each bite is creamy and full of warm pumpkin spice flavor.
• Great for Gatherings: Fun, portable, and easy to enjoy as a finger food.

Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup pumpkin puree
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)
• ¼ cup white chocolate chips (optional)
• Extra graham cracker crumbs for rolling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pumpkin Cheesecake Mixture

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the pumpkin puree, powdered sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.

Step 2: Chill the Mixture

1. Place the bowl in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let the mixture firm up, making it easier to roll into balls.

Step 3: Shape the Cheesecake Balls

1. After chilling, scoop out small portions of the mixture using a spoon or small cookie scoop.
2. Roll each portion between your hands to form a ball.

Step 4: Coat the Cheesecake Balls

1. Roll each cheesecake ball in the graham cracker crumbs until fully coated. For added crunch, you can mix in some chopped pecans with the crumbs before rolling.

Step 5: Optional White Chocolate Drizzle

1. If desired, melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 15-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
2. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cheesecake balls and sprinkle with chopped pecans if desired.

Step 6: Final Chill

1. Place the cheesecake balls back in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
2. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Spoon or small cookie scoop
• Microwave-safe bowl (if drizzling with chocolate)

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions: Serve these cheesecake balls chilled as a bite-sized dessert or fall treat. They’re perfect for holiday dessert platters or as a fun snack at gatherings.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze cheesecake balls for up to 1 month in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Add Nuts: Mix finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the graham cracker crumbs for added crunch and flavor.
• Spiced Coating: Sprinkle extra pumpkin pie spice in the graham cracker coating for an extra touch of fall flavor.
• Chocolate Coating: Dip the balls entirely in melted white or dark chocolate for a decadent chocolate-covered version.

Helpful Notes

• Chill for Easier Rolling: Chilling the pumpkin mixture helps firm it up, making it easier to roll into balls.
• Use a Cookie Scoop: A small cookie scoop ensures even portions, making the balls uniform in size.
• Drizzle Tips: If the white chocolate is too thick, add a teaspoon of coconut oil or shortening to make it easier to drizzle.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Ina Garten’s Cheesecake Tip: Use full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and a creamy texture.
Martha Stewart’s Rolling Advice: Coat hands lightly in powdered sugar if the mixture is sticky when rolling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these cheesecake balls can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
No, pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and spices, which can alter the texture and sweetness of the mixture. Use pure pumpkin puree.

Can I use a different coating?
Yes! Finely crushed gingersnap cookies, cinnamon-sugar mixture, or even shredded coconut work as alternative coatings.

Can I add more spice?
Absolutely. Adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice to your taste, or add extra cinnamon or nutmeg for a spicier kick.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers or crushed gluten-free cookies.

These No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls are a quick, easy, and festive fall treat that’s perfect for pumpkin lovers. Each bite is creamy, spiced, and deliciously indulgent. Enjoy!

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