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Creamy Pumpkin Balls

creamy pumpkin balls - featured image

These creamy pumpkin balls are an easy, no-bake Thanksgiving dessert featuring velvety cream cheese, spiced pumpkin, and a crunchy graham cracker coating. Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy autumn treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • White chocolate chips, melted (optional for drizzling or dipping)
  • Crushed gingersnaps or Oreo crumbs (optional for coating)
  • Sprinkles or colored sugar (optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 1 minute until smooth and fluffy.
  2. Add pumpkin purée, powdered sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat for 2-3 minutes until fully combined and creamy. If the filling is runny, add extra powdered sugar 1 tablespoon at a time until thick.
  3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or freezer for 10-15 minutes) until firm.
  4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion and roll the filling into 1-inch balls. Place on the prepared sheet.
  5. In a shallow bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, chopped nuts (if using), and ground cinnamon. Mix well.
  6. Roll each pumpkin ball in the coating mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs stick. Place coated balls back on the parchment-lined sheet. Drizzle with melted white chocolate or sprinkle with colored sugar if desired.
  7. Transfer the tray to the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour, or until firm. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour. For dairy-free, substitute plant-based cream cheese. If the filling is too soft, add more powdered sugar or chill longer. These freeze well and can be made ahead. Garnish with melted white chocolate or sprinkles for a festive touch.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin balls, no-bake dessert, Thanksgiving, fall dessert, pumpkin recipe, cream cheese, easy dessert, holiday treat