Fall is the perfect time to cozy up with comforting flavors, and nothing captures the season quite like pumpkin spice. But what if you could enjoy all that flavor in a no-bake, bite-sized treat? Enter: Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls. These creamy, spiced, and sweet little desserts are perfect for any autumn gathering—or just keeping a stash in your freezer for sweet cravings. In this article, you’ll discover exactly how to make them, what ingredients you’ll need, expert tips to make them perfect, and creative ways to twist the classic version into something new.
Don’t miss our Chewy Pumpkin Cookies if you love easy fall treats.
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Why Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls Are the Perfect Fall Treat
A delicious fusion of creamy, spicy, and sweet
Pumpkin cheesecake balls combine the smooth richness of cream cheese with the earthy sweetness of pumpkin puree and a hint of warm pumpkin pie spice. Each bite is wrapped in silky white chocolate and dusted with crushed graham crackers, giving you all the best textures and flavors of pumpkin pie and cheesecake—without needing a fork.
Bite-sized, no-bake, and freezer-friendly
The beauty of these treats is that there’s no oven required. Whether you’re short on time or just avoiding turning on the stove, this recipe fits right in. You’ll mix, roll, chill, and dip. The result? A dozen or more grab-and-go desserts you can freeze ahead or keep in the fridge for several days.
Ideal for parties, gifts, or afternoon snacks
Pumpkin cheesecake balls aren’t just tasty—they’re adorable. Their uniform shape and glossy white chocolate coating make them look professionally made. Package them in festive boxes for a homemade gift, add them to your dessert table, or pop one after dinner for a sweet little treat.
Check out our festive Pumpkin Pie Cookie Sandwiches for another fun party favorite.
Ingredients You Need to Make Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls
Pantry staples with a pumpkin twist
To create this rich and delicious dessert, you’ll need simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen—or can grab quickly at the store. Here’s what you need:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 8 oz (light or full fat) | Softened to room temperature |
| Pumpkin puree | 1/3 cup | Make sure it’s 100% pumpkin |
| Graham crackers | 10 crackers (crushed) | Or 1 cup of crumbs |
| Powdered sugar | 1/2 cup | Adds sweetness and stability |
| Pumpkin pie spice | 2 tsp | Store-bought or homemade |
| Salt | Pinch | Enhances flavor |
| Vanilla extract | 1/2 tsp | For depth |
| White chocolate chips | 2 cups | For melting and coating |
| Coconut oil | 1 tbsp | Helps smooth the chocolate |
| Extra graham crumbs | For topping | Optional, but highly recommended |
Choosing the right type of cream cheese and pumpkin puree
Use full-fat or light cream cheese, but avoid whipped versions, as they won’t set well when frozen. For the pumpkin, make sure you’re using pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which already has added sugars and spices.
Optional toppings for extra crunch and flavor
You can add a bit of flair by topping the dipped balls with:
- Crushed butterscotch or caramel chips
- Mini white chocolate chips
- Crushed pretzels for a salty twist
- A dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg
- Festive fall-colored sprinkles
Discover great ideas like our Amish Pumpkin Cookies with Frosting if you’re all about bold fall flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls
Making the pumpkin cheesecake mixture
Start by pulsing the graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor. In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, pumpkin puree, graham crumbs, and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth and fully blended. Add in pumpkin pie spice, salt, and vanilla, stirring again until evenly incorporated.
Pro tip: If the mixture seems too soft, add 2 more crushed graham crackers to firm it up.
Freezing and shaping the balls
Transfer the bowl to the freezer and chill the mixture for about 1 hour. Once it firms up, use a spoon or small cookie scoop to portion it into balls (about 2 tablespoons each). Roll between your palms until smooth and round, then place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze again for 30 minutes to help them hold their shape.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Pumpkin Cheesecake Dip Recipe if you prefer a simpler version in a bowl!
Dipping in white chocolate and decorating like a pro
Melt the white chocolate chips with coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second bursts and stirring between each. Once melted, dip each frozen ball into the chocolate using a fork or dipping tool, then return to the tray. Immediately sprinkle extra graham cracker crumbs or toppings over the wet chocolate. Refrigerate to set.
Don’t miss our Pumpkin Caramel Cheesecake Recipe for another decadent variation.
Expert Tips to Elevate Your Cheesecake Balls
Fixing a mixture that’s too soft or too stiff
One of the most common issues is a filling that’s too soft to roll. If this happens, don’t panic—just add more crushed graham crackers, one at a time, and mix until the texture becomes scoopable and holds its shape. If it’s too stiff or crumbly, try adding a tiny splash of milk or an extra spoonful of pumpkin puree to smooth it out.
Flavor boosts with spices, extracts, and mix-ins
Want to take the flavor to the next level? Stir in a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg for extra spice, or swap the vanilla for maple or almond extract. Some people also love mixing in mini white chocolate chips or finely chopped nuts for added texture and flavor contrast.
Check out our seasonal Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Tangy Frosting if you enjoy layering flavors creatively.
Decorating tips for holidays and themed events
These pumpkin cheesecake balls are a decorator’s dream. Dress them up for Halloween by using orange-colored chocolate coating and edible candy eyes. For Thanksgiving, drizzle with dark chocolate or sprinkle with crushed pecans. Hosting a holiday brunch? Try placing each ball in a mini cupcake liner and topping with a gold sugar pearl for a fancy finish.
Discover great ideas like Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Cream Cheese Filling for more festive fall dessert inspiration.
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls
Best containers to use for fridge or freezer
To keep your cheesecake balls fresh and firm, store them in an airtight container. For the fridge, line the container with parchment paper and layer the balls in a single row or separated by sheets of paper to prevent sticking.
How long they stay fresh
In the refrigerator, they’ll stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. If you’re prepping them for a future event or just want to stock up, store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Be sure to thaw them in the fridge for a couple of hours before serving—don’t microwave or leave them at room temperature too long, or the coating may melt.
Can you make them ahead of time?
Absolutely. These no-bake treats are a perfect make-ahead dessert. You can prep the dough up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Or roll the balls and freeze them without coating—then dip and decorate the day you plan to serve them.
Don’t miss our cozy Layered Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe for a more traditional twist on this flavor combo.
Variations and Creative Twists on Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls
Keto, vegan, and gluten-free versions
To make a gluten-free version, simply swap in certified gluten-free graham crackers. For vegan, use dairy-free cream cheese and vegan white chocolate chips. If you’re doing keto, try almond flour instead of graham crackers and sweeten with powdered erythritol or monk fruit.
Flavor pairings like chocolate, caramel, and maple
While white chocolate is classic here, you can switch up the coating to suit your cravings. Dip in dark chocolate for a bold contrast, or drizzle with salted caramel for a rich, buttery touch. Maple glaze or cinnamon sugar dusting also adds depth and a homemade bakery feel.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Chunkin’ Chocolate Pumpkin Cheesecake for the ultimate indulgent mash-up.
Turning them into cake pops or truffle gifts
If you want to level up your presentation, turn these into cake pops by inserting lollipop sticks after freezing the balls. Wrap them in cellophane and tie with seasonal ribbon for a gift-worthy sweet. You can also place them in decorative truffle boxes for party favors or hostess gifts.
Check out our Mini Keto Pumpkin Pie Recipe if you’re looking for more gift-friendly seasonal treats.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I keep cheesecake balls from being too soft?
The key is chilling your mixture long enough before rolling. If it still feels too soft, add 1–2 crushed graham crackers and freeze the dough for another 30 minutes. This helps the cream cheese and pumpkin firm up for easy shaping.
What can I use instead of white chocolate?
Dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips work just as well for coating. For a unique twist, try using caramel-flavored candy melts or almond bark. Just be sure whatever you use melts smoothly and hardens quickly.
How long should I freeze the pumpkin cheesecake mixture?
Freeze the blended mixture for at least 1 hour before rolling. After shaping the balls, freeze again for 30 minutes before dipping in chocolate. This double-freeze method ensures the perfect texture.
Can I use store-bought graham cracker crumbs instead?
Yes! Store-bought crumbs save time and work great in this recipe. Use about 1 cup of crumbs to replace the 10 whole graham crackers.
Are these gluten-free or vegan?
Not by default—but they can be! Use gluten-free graham crackers, dairy-free cream cheese, and vegan white chocolate to make an allergy-friendly version that tastes just as delicious.
Conclusion – Make These No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls Today
Why this will become your favorite pumpkin dessert
There’s no denying the comfort of pumpkin desserts during the fall season. But these no-bake pumpkin cheesecake balls take it to the next level with their creamy texture, rich flavor, and adorable size. Whether you’re serving them at a party, giving them as a gift, or just sneaking one from the fridge after dinner, they’re sure to become your favorite seasonal treat.
Great for holidays, gifting, or self-indulgence
Make a big batch for Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, Halloween parties, or to enjoy as a snack with your favorite fall latte. Want to impress your coworkers? Bring in a tray of these and watch them disappear.
Try it today and impress everyone around you
They’re easy to make, even easier to eat, and guaranteed to steal the spotlight on any dessert table. So grab your cream cheese, crush those graham crackers, and get rolling—you won’t regret it.
Looking for more no-bake options? Check out our No-Bake Chocolate Orange Cheesecake next!
PrintPumpkin Cheesecake Balls
These no-bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls are a creamy, spiced fall dessert coated in white chocolate and topped with graham cracker crumbs—perfect for parties, gifting, or a sweet snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (chilling)
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 20 balls
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 8oz block cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup pumpkin puree
- 10 graham crackers, crushed (or 1 cup crumbs)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- Extra crushed graham crackers for topping
Instructions
- Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor.
- In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, pumpkin puree, graham cracker crumbs, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Stir in pumpkin pie spice, salt, and vanilla extract.
- Freeze the mixture for 1 hour.
- Roll into 20 small balls and place on a lined baking sheet. Freeze for 30 minutes.
- Melt white chocolate and coconut oil in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
- Dip each ball into the melted white chocolate and place back on the tray.
- Sprinkle with crushed graham crackers and refrigerate until firm.
Notes
- If the mixture is too soft, add more crushed graham crackers.
- Use gluten-free or vegan substitutes if needed.
- Decorate with sprinkles, pretzels, or caramel drizzle for variety.
- Store in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
