These pumpkin truffles are a sweet treat that packs in the cozy flavors of fall! With creamy pumpkin filling wrapped in chocolate, they’re simply delicious.
These bites are perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself—no judgment here! I love pairing them with a warm cup of coffee for an extra cozy moment.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: You can use either canned pumpkin puree or make your own by roasting and blending fresh pumpkin. If fresh is available and in season, it adds a wonderful flavor!
Powdered Sugar: This gives the truffles their sweetness and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, you might try powdered erythritol or another sugar substitute, but remember it might change the texture.
Cream Cheese: It provides a rich flavor. For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese or Neufchâtel cheese. Vegan cream cheese is an excellent alternative if you want a dairy-free option.
Chocolate Coating: Semi-sweet or dark chocolate works best, but feel free to use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste. You could also use dairy-free chocolate for a vegan version.
Spices: The spices give great depth. If you don’t have all of them, a pumpkin spice mix will work perfectly!
What’s the Best Way to Melt Chocolate for Coating?
Melted chocolate is key for a smooth coating on your truffles. Here’s how to do it without burning:
- Using a double boiler is a safe method. Place a heat-safe bowl over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water.
- If you’re using a microwave, heat the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring well in between until it’s fully melted and smooth.
Personal Tip: Avoid getting any water into your chocolate, as this can cause it to seize. A pinch of shortening can help thin chocolate if it gets too thick!
Delicious Pumpkin Truffles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
For the Coating:
- 12 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped (for coating)
- 4 oz white chocolate, chopped (for drizzle)
- Crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs (optional for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful treat will take about 15 minutes of active prep time, plus 1 hour to freeze the truffles and about 30 minutes for the chocolate coating to set. In total, expect around 2 hours before you can indulge in these sweet bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, softened cream cheese, and vanilla extract. Add the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix everything together using a spatula or electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
2. Sweeten the Mixture:
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar to the pumpkin mixture, stirring well after each addition. This will help ensure that everything is evenly mixed. The mixture should be thick enough to handle but still creamy, similar to cookie dough. If it feels too soft, you can add a bit more powdered sugar until the desired consistency is reached.
3. Shape the Truffles:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, portion out the pumpkin mixture into 1-inch balls and place them onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between the balls.
4. Freeze the Balls:
Pop the baking sheet into the freezer and let the pumpkin balls chill for at least 1 hour or until they are firm to the touch. Chilling makes them easier to coat with chocolate later on!
5. Melt the Chocolate:
While your pumpkin balls are chilling, melt the semi-sweet or dark chocolate. You can do this in a double boiler over low heat or in the microwave using 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until smooth and fully melted.
6. Coat the Truffles:
Once the pumpkin balls are firm, remove them from the freezer. Using a fork or a dipping tool, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, making sure it is fully coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing them back on the parchment paper. Repeat until all truffles are coated!
7. Add the Topping (Optional):
Before the chocolate coating sets, you can sprinkle crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs on top for added texture and flavor. This step is optional but highly recommended for an extra crunch!
8. Drizzle with White Chocolate:
Melt the white chocolate in the same manner as before. Once melted, use a spoon or a piping bag to drizzle the white chocolate over the coated pumpkin truffles, creating a beautiful and decorative pattern.
9. Final Chill:
Refrigerate the truffles for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate coating is fully set and firm.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Once the truffles are chilled and the chocolate has hardened, they are ready to be served! Enjoy these creamy and chocolatey pumpkin truffles as a perfect fall treat or a sweet delight for any occasion!
These pumpkin truffles offer a delightful blend of seasonal flavors with a rich chocolatey finish, making them an irresistible dessert for any autumn gathering.
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pumpkin adds great flavor. Just roast the pumpkin, scoop out the flesh, and puree it until smooth before using it in the recipe.
How Do I Store Leftover Truffles?
Store any leftover truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They also freeze well for longer storage; just place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Can I Substitute Different Chocolate for Coating?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate or even white chocolate for coating if you prefer a sweeter taste. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness in the filling if needed, based on your chocolate choice.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute with vegan cream cheese or a thick nut-based cream. Just ensure it has a similar consistency for the best results in texture.
