Spiced Pumpkin Truffles

These Spiced Pumpkin Truffles are a cozy, no-bake treat bursting with fall flavor. Made with real pumpkin puree, warm spices, graham cracker crumbs, and creamy white chocolate, they come together effortlessly and can be served as rustic truffle balls or shaped into adorable mini pumpkins. Whether you roll them in cinnamon sugar or decorate with chocolate chip “stems,” they’re a festive addition to any fall gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No baking required: Skip the oven! These truffles are quick to make and perfect for no-fuss fall treats.

• Real pumpkin flavor: With 100% pumpkin puree and warm pumpkin pie spices, the flavor is comforting and cozy.

• Festive and fun: Roll them into balls or shape them like tiny pumpkins — great for entertaining or gifting.

• Simple ingredients: You only need a few pantry staples and a bit of chilling time.

• Versatile presentation: Dress them up with sprinkles, dip in chocolate, or keep them rustic with cinnamon sugar.

• Kid-friendly: The cute shapes and sweet taste make these a hit with children.

• Easy to customize: Adjust the sweetness, spice level, or coating to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

• Perfect make-ahead treat: These truffles keep well in the fridge, making them ideal for prepping ahead of time.

• Gluten- and dairy-free options: With simple swaps, this recipe can easily accommodate dietary restrictions.

• Delicious texture: Smooth, slightly dense centers with a hint of crunch from the cinnamon sugar coating.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the pumpkin truffles:
white chocolate (good quality, chopped)
pumpkin puree (100% pure pumpkin, not pie filling)
powdered sugar
pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon)
graham cracker crumbs

For the cinnamon sugar coating:
granulated sugar
ground cinnamon

Optional for decoration:
mini chocolate chips (to resemble pumpkin stems)

Directions

1. Melt the chocolate: In the microwave (10-second bursts, stirring in between) or over a double boiler, gently melt the white chocolate until smooth. Set aside to cool for 5–10 minutes.

2. Mix wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, powdered sugar, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir until well blended.

3. Add chocolate: Pour the slightly cooled white chocolate into the pumpkin mixture and stir until fully incorporated.

4. Fold in graham cracker crumbs: Mix until a thick, soft dough forms.

5. Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1–2 hours, or until the dough is firm enough to shape.

6. Make the cinnamon sugar: In a shallow bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon.

7. Shape the truffles: Scoop out 1-tablespoon portions of dough and roll into smooth balls between your hands.

8. Coat: Roll each truffle in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

9. Optional decoration: Use a toothpick, skewer, or butter knife to gently press ridges into the sides of the truffles to mimic pumpkin grooves. Press a mini chocolate chip into the top of each as a “stem.”

10. Chill until ready to serve: Store in the fridge in an airtight container until ready to enjoy.

Servings and timing

Servings: 20 truffles (approx.)
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 1–2 hours
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate dipped: Freeze shaped truffles before dipping in melted chocolate or candy melts.

• Spice-free version: Omit cinnamon or use nutmeg, cardamom, or allspice instead for those with allergies or preferences.

• Alternative coating: Roll in white sanding sugar for a crunchier texture and sparkle.

• Nutty twist: Mix in finely chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture.

• Different shapes: Use small molds for decorative shapes or press into silicone trays for easy forming.

• Mini truffles: Make ½ tablespoon-sized bites for snacking or entertaining.

• Vegan version: Use dairy-free white chocolate and graham crackers to make these fully vegan.

• Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.

• Extra sweet: Add a touch more powdered sugar if you’re using dark chocolate instead of white.

Storage/Reheating

Store truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For best texture, roll them in cinnamon sugar just before serving to maintain crunch.

Freezing: Truffles can be frozen (before or after coating) for up to 3 months. Place in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to a sealed container. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

FAQs

Do I need to cook the pumpkin puree?

No. Canned pumpkin puree is already cooked. Just be sure it’s 100% pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling.

Can I skip the chill time?

No. The mixture will be too soft to shape without chilling. It needs time to firm up.

Can I use chocolate chips instead of white chocolate?

Chocolate chips don’t melt as smoothly and may result in a grainy texture. Use high-quality white chocolate bars or melting wafers for best results.

How do I fix seized white chocolate?

If your white chocolate seizes, stir in 1–2 teaspoons of neutral oil (like vegetable or canola) to help smooth it out.

Can I make these without cinnamon?

Yes. Omit the cinnamon and use only sugar for the coating or replace it with another warm spice like nutmeg or cardamom.

Will the truffles hold their shape at room temperature?

They hold up well for a few hours but should be stored chilled to maintain firmness.

Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Yes. The dough can be made and refrigerated for several hours or overnight before shaping and rolling.

What’s the best chocolate to use?

Look for white chocolate labeled “Baker’s” or “couverture” for smooth melting and flavor. Avoid white chocolate chips if possible.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. This recipe doubles well if you’re making treats for a crowd or as edible gifts.

Are these good for parties or gifts?

Yes. Their adorable pumpkin shape and festive appearance make them ideal for fall events, Halloween, Thanksgiving, or gift boxes.

Conclusion

Spiced Pumpkin Truffles are a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall without turning on the oven. With creamy white chocolate, cozy spices, and real pumpkin in every bite, these truffles are as fun to make as they are to eat. Whether you shape them into pumpkins or keep them simple and round, they’re sure to be a seasonal favorite that adds a touch of charm to your dessert spread.