These pumpkin spice truffles are a sweet treat that brings the cozy flavors of fall into every bite. They’re soft, creamy, and just the right amount of spicy.
Making these truffles is as fun as eating them! I love to roll them in crushed nuts or sprinkles for a little crunch and color. Perfect for sharing—or not! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This gives the truffles a rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat. Vegan cream cheese works well too if you’re catering to dairy-free diets.
Canned Pumpkin Puree: Always choose pure pumpkin puree, not the pre-spiced pie filling. If fresh pumpkin is available, you can roast and puree it for a fresher flavor. Just ensure it’s properly cooked down to remove excess moisture.
Powdered Sugar: This is key for sweetness and stabilizing the truffle mixture. If you prefer less sugar, you can reduce the amount, but the texture may be slightly different. You could substitute with a powdered sugar alternative like erythritol if you’re looking for a low-sugar option.
Spices: The blend of pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger creates that classic fall flavor. If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, use a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice or even just cinnamon for a simpler taste.
Chocolate: You can use dark chocolate if you prefer a richer flavor. For a dairy-free version, look for vegan chocolate melts or dark chocolate chips that are dairy-free.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Truffle Texture?
Getting the right texture for your truffles is essential for them to be creamy yet firm. Here’s what you need to focus on:
- Start by blending the cream cheese and pumpkin until smooth. The better combined it is, the creamier your truffles will be.
- Gradually mix in the powdered sugar. This helps to thicken the mixture without over-mixing, which can affect the texture.
- Chill the mixture adequately before shaping. It needs to be firm enough to hold its shape when rolled into balls. Don’t skip the refrigeration step!
- Make sure your chocolate is smooth and not too hot when dipping. A good dipping temperature is key for a nice finish.
Following these steps will help you achieve the perfect pumpkin spice truffles that are both delicious and beautifully textured! Enjoy making them!
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Truffles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Truffle Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 12 oz white chocolate melts or white chocolate chips
- 6 oz semi-sweet or milk chocolate melts or chocolate chips
For Garnish:
- Crushed gingersnap cookies or graham cracker crumbs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful treat will take approximately 15-20 minutes of active prep time, plus about 3 hours for chill time. Expect 2 hours for the filling to firm up in the fridge and another hour after rolling the truffles to set the chocolate coating. It’s worth the wait for a sweet, fall-inspired treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Truffle Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and canned pumpkin puree. Using a hand mixer, blend everything together until it’s completely smooth and well mixed. This creamy base is the heart of your truffles!
2. Sweeten the Mixture:
Gradually sift in the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Continue adding until the mixture is thick and smooth. Then, sprinkle in the pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, and fold those in until everything is evenly coated with spice goodness.
3. Chill the Filling:
Cover your mixing bowl with plastic wrap and pop it into the refrigerator. Let it chill for about 2 hours, or until it’s firm enough to shape. This step is crucial for making it easier to roll the truffles!
4. Shape the Truffles:
After chilling, take the filling out and scoop out tablespoon-sized portions. Roll each portion into a ball with your hands and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This part is fun—get a little messy and enjoy shaping your truffles!
5. Firm Up the Balls:
Refrigerate the truffle balls for about 1 hour. This will help them stay firm during the dipping process.
6. Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet or milk chocolate. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between until fully melted and smooth. This will be your first chocolate layer!
7. Dip the Truffles:
Carefully dip each chilled truffle ball halfway into the melted chocolate, letting the excess drip off before placing it back on the parchment paper. Repeat until all are coated!
8. Top with White Chocolate:
Next, melt the white chocolate using the same method as before. Once melted, drizzle or coat the top half of each truffle with white chocolate. This adds a pretty touch and sweetens them up even more!
9. Add the Crunchy Garnish:
While the white chocolate is still wet, sprinkle crushed gingersnap cookies or graham cracker crumbs on top for an extra crunch and festive flair.
10. Let Them Set:
Refrigerate the truffles again until the chocolate coating is fully set, which should take about 30 minutes. Once set, they’ll be ready to enjoy!
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Take a moment to admire your beautifully made Pumpkin Spice Truffles! Serve them chilled and enjoy each bite of cozy pumpkin goodness alongside your favorite hot drink!
These truffles are perfect for sharing at gatherings, giving as gifts, or simply indulging in on a cozy fall evening. Happy cooking!
Can I Use a Different Type of Chocolate for Dipping?
Absolutely! While the recipe suggests semi-sweet and white chocolate, you can use dark chocolate for a richer flavor. Just make sure it’s melted in the same way, heating in short bursts to avoid burning.
Can I Make These Truffles Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, and use vegan chocolate melts for both the semi-sweet and white chocolate coatings. Just check the labels to ensure they’re completely dairy-free.
How Do I Store Leftover Truffles?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before enjoying!
Why Is Refrigerating the Mixture Important?
Refrigerating the mixture helps it firm up, making it easier to roll into truffle balls without them becoming too sticky. This step is essential for achieving the right texture and shape!