I love adding these pumpkin truffles to my Thanksgiving dessert spread because they bring all the cozy flavors of pumpkin pie in a bite-sized treat. Their creamy, spiced centers and crisp chocolate coating make them easy to serve, share, and prepare ahead.
Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Truffles
These no-bake treats are simple to make and don’t need oven time, which is especially helpful when the oven is busy with Thanksgiving dinner. Pumpkin puree, warm spices, and cream cheese create a soft, rich center, while a chocolate shell adds a satisfying finish. Make them a day ahead for an easy addition to your holiday dessert table.
Pumpkin Truffles Ingredients & Substitutions
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil, optional, for a smoother coating
For a different coating, use milk or white chocolate chips. If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, use a blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and a small pinch of cloves.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Pumpkin Truffles
1. Mix the pumpkin filling
Beat the softened cream cheese and pumpkin puree in a medium bowl until smooth. Add the graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon. Stir until the mixture is evenly combined.
2. Chill the mixture
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours, until the mixture is firm enough to shape. If it still feels sticky, chill it a little longer.
3. Shape the truffles
Scoop the chilled mixture into small portions, about 1 tablespoon each, and roll them into balls. Set them on a parchment-lined tray and chill for 20 minutes.
4. Dip in chocolate
Melt the chocolate chips with the optional coconut oil in short microwave bursts, stirring between each burst until smooth. Dip each chilled ball in the chocolate, let the excess drip back into the bowl, then return it to the tray.
5. Set and serve
Refrigerate the truffles until the chocolate coating is firm, about 20 minutes. Serve chilled or let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.
Tips for Success
- Use plain pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, which is already sweetened and spiced.
- Chill the filling before rolling so the truffles hold their shape and are easier to dip.
- Make sure the truffle centers are cold before coating them. This helps the chocolate set neatly around each one.
- Melt chocolate gently and stir often to keep it smooth. If it becomes too thick, stir in a little more coconut oil.
Variations of Pumpkin Truffles
Roll the finished truffles in finely chopped pecans, crushed graham crackers, or a light dusting of cinnamon before the chocolate sets. For a two-tone finish, drizzle melted white chocolate over the firm chocolate coating. You can also swap the graham cracker crumbs for finely crushed vanilla wafers.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Pumpkin Truffles
Arrange these truffles on a Thanksgiving dessert platter with apple slices, pecan bars, and small cookies. They’re also lovely alongside coffee, chai, or hot apple cider. For a polished holiday touch, place each truffle in a mini paper candy cup.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Store pumpkin truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They are best served chilled or slightly softened at room temperature. To freeze, arrange them in a single layer until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Reheating is not needed.
Memories Made Around the Table
I like setting out a plate of these truffles after Thanksgiving dinner, when everyone is ready for just one more little bite of something sweet. Their small size makes them easy to pass around, and decorating a batch with different toppings is a fun way to get family and friends involved in the holiday preparations.
FAQs
Can I make pumpkin truffles ahead of time?
Yes. Make them up to 5 days ahead and keep them covered in the refrigerator. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Why is my pumpkin truffle mixture too soft?
Pumpkin puree can vary in moisture. Chill the mixture longer, or stir in a little extra graham cracker crumb until it is firm enough to roll.
Can I use pumpkin pie filling?
Plain pumpkin puree is best. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sweeteners and spices, which can make the mixture too soft and change the flavor.
How do I keep the chocolate coating smooth?
Melt the chocolate slowly, stirring frequently, and avoid letting water get into the bowl. A small amount of coconut oil can help the coating flow smoothly.
Final Thoughts
With their creamy pumpkin-spice centers and crisp chocolate shells, these pumpkin truffles are a lovely make-ahead treat for Thanksgiving. Keep a batch chilled for dessert, or package a few as a sweet homemade gift.
Pumpkin Truffles
Equipment
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 Electric Mixer
- 1 Baking Tray
- 1 Microwave
Ingredients
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened
- 0.33 cup pumpkin puree not pumpkin pie filling
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 0.25 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil optional, for a smoother coating
Instructions
- Beat the softened cream cheese and pumpkin puree in a medium bowl until smooth. Add the graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon. Stir until evenly combined.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours, until the mixture is firm enough to shape. If it still feels sticky, chill it a little longer.
- Scoop the chilled mixture into small portions, about 1 tablespoon each, and roll them into balls. Set them on a parchment-lined tray and chill for 20 minutes.
- Melt the chocolate chips with the optional coconut oil in short microwave bursts, stirring between each burst until smooth. Dip each chilled ball in the chocolate, let the excess drip back into the bowl, then return it to the tray.
- Refrigerate the truffles until the chocolate coating is firm, about 20 minutes. Serve chilled or let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.