These No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls are everything you love about fall desserts—creamy, spiced, sweet, and ultra-easy to make. Each bite-sized ball is made with pumpkin purée, cream cheese, warm spices, and crushed cookies, then dipped in white chocolate for the ultimate seasonal indulgence.
Perfect for holiday platters, party trays, or cozy snacking, this no-bake treat takes minimal ingredients and comes together in under 30 minutes. Keep a batch in the fridge or freezer for a festive treat anytime!
Ingredients:
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 ½ cups crushed graham crackers or gingersnap cookies
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 10 oz white chocolate chips or white candy melts (for coating)
- Optional toppings: crushed graham crackers, cinnamon sugar, sprinkles, chopped pecans
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, pumpkin, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Add the Crumbs
- Stir in the crushed graham crackers or gingersnaps and mix until a thick dough forms. If the mixture feels too soft, add a bit more crushed cookie until it holds its shape.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
- Place the bowl in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up the dough. This makes it easier to roll into balls.
Step 4: Roll into Balls
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Return to the fridge or freezer for 10–15 minutes to firm up before coating.
Step 5: Melt the Chocolate
- Melt white chocolate chips or candy melts in the microwave in 20–30 second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Step 6: Dip and Decorate
- Using a fork or toothpick, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, letting the excess drip off. Place back on parchment. Add toppings while chocolate is still wet, if desired.
Step 7: Chill to Set
- Refrigerate the coated balls for 20–30 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set.
Variation:
- Dark Chocolate Coating: Use dark or milk chocolate for a rich twist
- Maple Spice Version: Add 1 tsp maple extract instead of vanilla
- Graham Cracker Free: Use finely crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread
- Nutty Twist: Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: Add a pinch of instant espresso powder for a coffee note
COOKING Note:
Be sure to use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth, lump-free filling. Avoid using fresh pumpkin purée with high moisture—it can make the dough too soft.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled on a Thanksgiving dessert board
- Display on a tray with mini tongs or toothpicks for parties
- Add to holiday cookie boxes or edible gifts
- Pair with apple cider, chai, or pumpkin spice latte
- Great for Halloween party finger food
Tips:
- Chill well before dipping to prevent balls from falling apart in melted chocolate
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
- Freeze uncoated balls for up to 2 months—thaw, then dip
- Add a pinch of salt to balance sweetness
- Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized balls
⏱️ Time Overview:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 45 minutes total
- Total Time: ~1 hour
🍽️ Nutritional Information (per ball, approx. 24 balls):
- Calories: ~110
- Protein: ~1g
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Fat: ~7g
- Sugar: ~8g
- Sodium: ~50mg
- Fiber: ~0.5g
Values may vary based on ingredients and coating used.
❓FAQs
Can I use pumpkin pie filling?
- No. Pumpkin pie filling is already sweetened and spiced—it may alter the texture and flavor. Use pure pumpkin purée.
How long do they last?
- Up to 5 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer (best uncoated if freezing).
Can I use a food processor for mixing?
- Yes! It works great for combining everything quickly and evenly.
Can I skip the chocolate coating?
- Yes, but the coating helps the balls hold their shape and adds texture. You can also roll them in crushed cookies, cocoa powder, or cinnamon sugar as an alternative.
Are they gluten-free?
- Only if you use gluten-free cookies or graham crackers and ensure your other ingredients are certified GF.
Conclusion:
These No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls are the perfect fall treat—rich, creamy, spiced, and coated in luscious white chocolate. Easy to make and great for gifting or snacking, they bring pumpkin spice flavor in a fun and portable form.
Whether you’re planning a party, filling up a dessert tray, or just need a little something sweet on hand, these pumpkin bites are festive, flavorful, and always a hit.