Imagine biting into a smooth, creamy pumpkin treat that captures the essence of autumn.
Picture the aroma of pumpkin pie spice wafting through your kitchen as you prepare these delightful Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls.
They’re incredibly easy to make and offer a cozy indulgence perfect for any occasion.
As the simple ingredients blend together, they transform into a delectable dessert that’s hard to resist.
Let’s bring this comforting treat to life!
Kitchen Tools Required
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Electric mixer
- 1 Baking sheet
- 1 Parchment paper
- 1 Measuring cup set
- 1 Measuring spoon set
- 1 Small cookie scoop or tablespoon
- 1 Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 cup Pumpkin puree
- 8 ounces Cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup Graham cracker crumbs, plus extra for rolling
- 1 cup Powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon Pumpkin pie spice
Cook & Prep Time
To efficiently manage your time while preparing Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls, here’s a suggested timeline that incorporates both the prep work and the resting time:
Timeline for Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls
- Reading and Gathering Ingredients & Equipment (5 minutes)
- Take a few minutes to read through the recipe and gather all necessary ingredients and equipment. This prepares you for a smooth workflow.
- Prep Work (20 minutes)
- Mixing (10 minutes):
- Combine pumpkin puree and softened cream cheese using an electric mixer until smooth.
- Add graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice.
- Mix until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Portioning and Rolling (10 minutes):
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the mixture and roll into balls.
- Roll each ball in extra graham cracker crumbs to coat.
- Place the coated balls onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Resting Time (1 hour)
- Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and allow the pumpkin cheesecake balls to set for at least 1 hour.
Additional Considerations
- Clean-up (During Resting Time):
- Utilize the resting time to wash and store any used equipment and clean the workspace.
- Serving (After Resting Time):
- Once the balls have set, they’re ready to be served.
Adjust as needed based on your pace and any additional garnishes you might want to add.
Recipe Instructions
In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree and cream cheese using an electric mixer until smooth.
Add the graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice to the bowl.
Mix everything together until well combined and smooth.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the mixture and roll into balls.
Roll each ball in extra graham cracker crumbs to coat.
Place the coated balls onto the prepared baking sheet.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the balls to set.
Serving Tips
- Drizzle with Chocolate: Add a touch of decadence by drizzling melted chocolate over the pumpkin cheesecake balls before serving.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on the side for an extra creamy texture.
- Pair with Coffee: These dessert balls pair perfectly with a warm cup of coffee or espresso for an afternoon treat.
- Serve with Fresh Berries: Add a pop of color and freshness by serving alongside a handful of fresh berries.
- Sprinkle with Cinnamon: Enhance the fall flavors by dusting a little ground cinnamon over the top of the balls before serving.
Storage
To store Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
They can be kept refrigerated for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months.
Freezing
To freeze Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually.
Once solid, transfer to an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper.
Thaw in the refrigerator.
Reheating
Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls are best served chilled.
They don’t require reheating. Simply keep them refrigerated until serving to maintain their texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls are a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that captures the essence of fall flavors.
With a smooth and creamy texture, these treats are perfect for any occasion.
The combination of pumpkin puree, cream cheese, and graham cracker crumbs creates a deliciously rich and sweet bite.
The addition of pumpkin pie spice adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
Enjoy them as a simple treat or as a festive addition to your holiday gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Homemade Pumpkin Puree Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can use homemade pumpkin puree. Make sure it’s well-drained to match canned consistency. Measure exactly one cup. If too wet, strain using a cheesecloth. This prevents excess moisture, guaranteeing your mixture holds and sets properly.
Are There Any Substitutes for Graham Cracker Crumbs?
You can substitute graham cracker crumbs with equal amounts of crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers. Make sure you crush them to a fine consistency using a food processor or a rolling pin for the best texture.
How Long Can the Balls Be Stored in the Refrigerator?
You can store them in the refrigerator for up to one week. Make certain they are in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If they seem dry, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Can I Use a Food Processor Instead of an Electric Mixer?
Yes, you can use a food processor instead of an electric mixer. Process on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous. Make certain ingredients are evenly distributed by scraping down the sides with a spatula.
Are These Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls Gluten-Free?
They’re not gluten-free due to the graham cracker crumbs. Replace them with gluten-free crumbs to make them suitable. Confirm all other ingredients, like pumpkin puree and vanilla extract, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls
Equipment
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Electric mixer
- 1 Baking sheet
- 1 Parchment paper
- 1 measuring cup set
- 1 measuring spoon set
- 1 Small cookie scoop or tablespoon
- 1 Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs plus extra for rolling
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree and cream cheese using an electric mixer until smooth.
- Add the graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice to the bowl.
- Mix everything together until well combined and smooth.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the mixture and roll into balls.
- Roll each ball in extra graham cracker crumbs to coat.
- Place the coated balls onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the balls to set.
Notes
