Description

Indulge in creamy No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls with rich pumpkin flavor and easy prep. Perfect for fall parties and Thanksgiving!

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients List

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 cup pumpkin puree: This is the base for your pumpkin flavor.
8 oz cream cheese (softened): Adds creaminess and tang to the cheesecake balls.
2 cups graham cracker crumbs: Helps bind the mixture and adds a subtle crunch.
1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the mixture without making it too heavy.
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice: Infuses the balls with the warm, autumn flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the cheesecake balls.
Optional: 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness.

Coating options:

Crushed graham crackers: Classic choice for a light, crumbly exterior.
Mini chocolate chips: Adds sweetness and texture.
Coconut flakes: For a tropical twist.
Crushed pecans or walnuts: Adds a crunchy, nutty flavor.

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls:

Step 1: Soften the Cream Cheese and Mix

Place the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat until smooth.
Add the pumpkin puree and mix until the two are well combined and smooth.

Step 2: Add the Sweeteners and Flavorings

Gradually add the powdered sugar to the mixture, ensuring it’s fully incorporated.
Add pumpkin pie spice and vanilla extract, mixing until the flavors are evenly distributed.
Taste the mixture. If you’d like it sweeter, add maple syrup or honey.

Step 3: Incorporate the Graham Cracker Crumbs

Slowly fold in graham cracker crumbs until the mixture reaches a dough-like consistency. You want it firm enough to roll into balls but still soft.

Step 4: Shape the Mixture into Balls

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion the mixture and roll it into balls with your hands.
Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Roll the Balls in Your Desired Coating

Roll each ball in your preferred coating, such as crushed graham crackers, mini chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or crushed nuts.
Make sure the balls are evenly coated for a polished look.

Step 6: Chill the Cheesecake Balls

Place the baking sheet with the cheesecake balls in the refrigerator.
Let them chill for 1-2 hours to firm up before serving.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once chilled, your No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls are ready to enjoy. Serve them as a party dessert, or simply as a sweet snack to savor throughout the week.

Notes

Tips, Notes, Storing, and Reheating

When making and serving No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls, a few extra tips can help you get the most out of this delicious dessert. From proper storage to customization ideas, here are some practical suggestions to ensure your cheesecake balls are as tasty as possible.

Storing

No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls are a great make-ahead dessert, especially for parties or holidays. Here’s how to store them properly:

Refrigerator: Once your cheesecake balls have been rolled and coated, store them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days when kept refrigerated.
Layering: If you need to stack the balls in the container, place a sheet of parchment paper between the layers to prevent them from sticking together.

Freezing

These cheesecake balls freeze beautifully, making them an excellent option if you want to prepare them well in advance. Here’s how to freeze and thaw them properly:

Freezing: Place the cheesecake balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them individually for about 2 hours. Once they are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag.
Thawing: When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw the balls in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature, as this could cause them to become too soft.

Reheating

While these cheesecake balls are meant to be served chilled, if they’ve been frozen, it’s best to let them warm up just slightly in the refrigerator before serving. No need to reheat them, as they’re meant to be enjoyed cold for the best texture.