No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Peanut Butter Balls

Craving the rich, creamy flavors of pumpkin cheesecake and peanut butter, all in one bite-sized treat? These No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Peanut Butter Balls are the perfect combination of sweet and spiced, with a touch of nutty goodness. They’re easy to make, don’t require any baking, and are ideal for fall gatherings, Halloween parties, or just an afternoon snack with a seasonal twist.

Ingredients:

Filling:

• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (for texture)

Coating:

• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or white chocolate for a sweeter twist)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil (for thinning the chocolate)

Rolling/Coating (Optional):

• Crushed graham crackers
• Chopped peanuts
• Cinnamon sugar mix

Preparation:

1: Combine the Pumpkin Cheesecake and Peanut Butter Filling

• In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, powdered sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until everything is well combined and smooth.

2: Add the Graham Cracker Crumbs

• Stir in the graham cracker crumbs to give the mixture texture and help it firm up. The crumbs add a subtle crunch and help bind the filling.

3: Chill the Mixture

• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for about 1-2 hours, or until it’s firm enough to roll into balls.

4: Shape the Cheesecake Balls

• Once the mixture has chilled, use a spoon or small cookie scoop to portion out the dough. Roll each portion into a ball, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the rolled balls on a lined baking sheet.

5: Melt the Chocolate

• In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth. Add the coconut oil to thin the chocolate for easier dipping.

6: Dip the Cheesecake Balls

• Using a fork or dipping tool, carefully lower each cheesecake ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated. Let any excess chocolate drip off before placing the dipped balls back onto the lined baking sheet.

7: Optional – Roll in Toppings

• For extra flavor and texture, you can roll the cheesecake balls in crushed graham crackers, chopped peanuts, or a cinnamon sugar mix while the chocolate is still wet.

8: Chill and Serve

• Place the cheesecake balls in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set. Once set, they are ready to serve and enjoy!

Variations:

• White Chocolate Pumpkin Peanut Butter Balls: For a sweeter twist, use melted white chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate for the coating. The creamy sweetness pairs beautifully with the pumpkin and peanut butter filling.
• Spiced Gingersnap Version: Replace the graham cracker crumbs with crushed gingersnaps for a spicier flavor profile. You can also roll the finished balls in crushed gingersnaps for extra crunch.
• Crunchy Peanut Butter Version: If you love added texture, try using crunchy peanut butter in the filling instead of creamy. It adds a delightful crunch to each bite.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free graham crackers or cookies to make these cheesecake balls gluten-free.

Cooking Notes:

• Chilling is essential: Make sure the filling is well chilled before rolling the mixture into balls. If the mixture is too soft, chill it for a longer time.
• Thinning the chocolate: Adding a little coconut oil or vegetable oil helps thin the melted chocolate, making it easier to coat the cheesecake balls.
• Store properly: These cheesecake balls are best stored in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps them fresh and firm for up to a week.

Serving Suggestions:

• Festive party treat: These no-bake pumpkin cheesecake peanut butter balls are great for fall parties or as part of a dessert platter. Serve them in mini cupcake liners for an elegant presentation.
• Gifting idea: Pack the cheesecake balls in a decorative tin or box to give as homemade gifts during the holiday season. They make a thoughtful (and delicious) present.
• Pair with coffee: Enjoy these cheesecake balls alongside a cup of pumpkin spice latte or hot chocolate for a cozy fall treat.

Tips:

• Use a cookie scoop: For even-sized cheesecake balls, use a small cookie scoop to portion out the dough before rolling.
• Make ahead: These cheesecake balls can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just dip them in chocolate right before serving for the freshest coating.
• Freeze for later: You can freeze these cheesecake balls for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.

Prep Time:

20 minutes (plus chilling time)

Cooking Time:

0 minutes (no-bake)

Total Time:

1 hour 30 minutes (including chilling)

Nutritional Information (Per Cheesecake Ball):

• Calories: 130
• Protein: 3g
• Sodium: 75mg

FAQs:

Q: Can I freeze these Pumpkin Cheesecake Peanut Butter Balls?
A: Yes! These cheesecake balls freeze well. Just store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

Q: Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?
A: Absolutely! Homemade pumpkin puree works perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to strain any excess moisture from the puree to avoid making the mixture too soft.

Q: Can I make these vegan?
A: Yes! Simply use dairy-free cream cheese, peanut butter, and dairy-free chocolate to make these treats vegan-friendly.

Q: Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?
A: Definitely! Dark chocolate works well if you prefer a richer, more intense flavor to contrast with the sweet filling.

Conclusion:

No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Peanut Butter Balls are a delightful fall dessert, combining the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the nutty goodness of peanut butter. The pumpkin spice adds warmth and flavor, making these treats perfect for autumn celebrations, holiday gifting, or simply indulging in a sweet snack. Plus, since they’re no-bake, they come together quickly and effortlessly. Enjoy these delicious bites of fall flavor!

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