Embrace the autumn season with these delightful Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites. Combining the sweetness of white chocolate and the rich flavor of pumpkin puree, these little treats are filled with fall flavors. The crust, made from a mix of ginger snaps and graham crackers, adds an extra layer of texture and taste. Simple to make, these bites are perfect to satisfy your sweet tooth or to share at a festive gathering.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are quite common and easy to find. However, ginger snaps and pumpkin puree might not be readily available in all households. Ginger snaps are a type of biscuit made from ginger and other spices, they add a unique flavor to the bites. If not in your pantry, they can be found in the cookie aisle of any supermarket. As for the pumpkin puree, it's typically available in cans, especially during the fall season, and can be found in the canned goods section. Remember to get pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
Primary Ingredients for Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites
Ginger snaps: They add a spicy kick and a crunchy texture to the crust of the cheesecake bites.
Graham crackers: They provide a sweet and slightly nutty flavor to the crust.
Cream cheese: It gives the cheesecake bites their creamy, rich texture.
White chocolate: It adds sweetness to the bites and helps to set the texture when melted.
Pumpkin puree: It gives the cheesecake bites their distinctive pumpkin flavor.
Pumpkin pie spice: It enhances the pumpkin flavor with a warm, autumnal spice blend.
Salt: It balances the sweetness of the other ingredients.
Coconut oil: It helps to smooth out the white chocolate when melted for dipping the cheesecake bites.
One reader, Aeriel Leavitt says:
These pumpkin cheesecake bites are a game-changer! The combination of creamy pumpkin and rich white chocolate is simply divine. The recipe is easy to follow, and the end result is a delightful treat that's perfect for fall gatherings. I can't wait to make them again!
Techniques Required for Making Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites Recipe
How to prepare the crust: Mix together the ginger snaps and graham cracker crumbs in a small bowl.
How to make the cheesecake filling: Beat the cream cheese until light and fluffy, then add melted white chocolate, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Mix in the cookie crumbs.
How to shape the cheesecake bites: Scoop the mixture into tablespoon-sized balls and freeze until solid. Then roll the chilled balls between palms to smooth out edges.
How to coat the cheesecake bites: Mix the remaining melted white chocolate with coconut oil, then dip the balls to coat. Sprinkle with reserved cookie crumbs.
How to chill the cheesecake bites: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
How To Make Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites
Whip up a creamy batch of these no-bake pumpkin cheesecake bites, made with ginger snaps, cream cheese, and earthy sweet pumpkin for a tasty treat!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1cupginger snaps,crushed
- ¾cupgraham crackers,crushed
- 4ozcream cheese,softened
- 2½cupswhite chocolate,melted, divided
- ½cuppumpkin puree
- 1tsppumpkin pie spice
- pinchkosher salt
- 1tbspcoconut oil
Instructions
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Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a small bowl, mix together the ginger snaps and graham cracker crumbs. Set aside 2 tablespoons for topping.
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In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until light and fluffy. Add ½ cup of melted white chocolate, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and salt and beat until incorporated. Mix in the cookie crumbs
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Scoop the mixture into tablespoon-sized balls and freeze for about 40 minutes until solid.
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Roll the chilled balls between palms to smooth out edges, then chill for an additional 5 minutes.
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Mix together the remaining melted white chocolate with coconut oil, then dip the balls in to coat. Place back on the baking sheet, then sprinkle with reserved cookie crumbs.
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Refrigerate at least 1 hour.
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Serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 176.62kcal
- Fat: 10.65g
- Saturated Fat: 6.26g
- Trans Fat: 0.10g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.78g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.56g
- Carbohydrates: 18.94g
- Fiber: 0.39g
- Sugar: 15.52g
- Protein: 2.10g
- Cholesterol: 11.29mg
- Sodium: 97.45mg
- Calcium: 57.08mg
- Potassium: 101.00mg
- Iron: 0.69mg
- Vitamin A: 74.03µg
- Vitamin C: 0.40mg
Essential Technique Tip for Perfect Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites
When melting the white chocolate, it's crucial to do so gently to prevent it from seizing. You can achieve this by using a double boiler or melting it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Additionally, when mixing the cream cheese, ensure it is at room temperature to achieve a smooth and creamy texture. Cold cream cheese can result in a lumpy mixture.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites
Prep ahead: Prepare the ginger snap and graham cracker crumbs mixture a day in advance and store it in an airtight container to save time during the recipe preparation.
Chill efficiently: Place the cheesecake bites in the freezer for a shorter amount of time by using a shallow baking dish to spread them out in a single layer, allowing them to chill faster.
Organized workspace: Before starting the recipe, gather all the ingredients and equipment needed to create an efficient and smooth cooking process.
Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly and evenly crush the ginger snaps and graham crackers for the crust, saving time and effort compared to crushing them by hand.
Multi-task: While the cheesecake bites are chilling in the freezer, take the time to prepare other components of the meal or clean up the kitchen to maximize efficiency.
Substitute Ingredients For Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites Recipe
ginger snaps - Substitute with vanilla wafers: Vanilla wafers can provide a similar crunchy texture and a hint of sweetness to the crust.
graham crackers - Substitute with digestive biscuits: Digestive biscuits have a similar texture and flavor profile, making them a suitable replacement for graham crackers in the crust.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a tangy and creamy texture similar to cream cheese, while also adding a slight tartness to the filling.
white chocolate - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can add a rich and creamy texture to the recipe, similar to white chocolate, while also imparting a subtle coconut flavor.
pumpkin puree - Substitute with butternut squash puree: Butternut squash puree offers a similar sweet and nutty flavor profile to pumpkin puree, making it a suitable alternative in the recipe.
pumpkin pie spice - Substitute with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves mix: A combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves can replicate the warm and aromatic flavors of pumpkin pie spice.
coconut oil - Substitute with butter: Butter can provide a rich and creamy texture, similar to coconut oil, while also adding a subtle buttery flavor to the recipe.
Presentation Ideas for Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites
Elevate the plating: Arrange the pumpkin cheesecake bites in a circular pattern on a sleek, white porcelain plate, creating a visually stunning and elegant presentation.
Incorporate seasonal elements: Garnish the plate with a delicate dusting of powdered sugar to mimic a light snowfall, and add a sprig of fresh cinnamon for a pop of color and a hint of warm, aromatic flavor.
Balance textures: Pair the creamy pumpkin cheesecake bites with a crunchy caramelized pecan brittle, adding a delightful contrast in texture and a rich, nutty flavor.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the minimalist approach by leaving ample white space on the plate, allowing the vibrant colors and intricate details of the dessert to take center stage.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Create an artful drizzle of caramel sauce on the plate, using a delicate hand to add a touch of decadence and a beautiful, glossy finish to the presentation.
Add a touch of elegance with edible flowers: Adorn the plate with a few carefully placed edible rose petals to introduce a touch of sophistication and a subtle floral aroma to the dessert.
Highlight the seasonal theme: Introduce a small, decorative pumpkin-shaped chocolate to the plate, serving as a charming nod to the star ingredient and adding a whimsical touch to the presentation.
Emphasize precision: Pay attention to the placement of each element, ensuring that the arrangement is meticulously crafted to showcase the artistry and attention to detail in the presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for tasks such as chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for making the crust and blending the cheesecake filling for the pumpkin cheesecake bites.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the ingredients for the cheesecake filling and the crust. It's important to have a few different sizes to accommodate various mixing needs.
- Baking sheet: A baking sheet is used to line the parchment paper for chilling and setting the pumpkin cheesecake bites.
- Parchment paper: Parchment paper is used to line the baking sheet and prevent the pumpkin cheesecake bites from sticking.
- Small bowl: A small bowl is used for mixing the ginger snaps and graham cracker crumbs for the crust topping.
- Spatula: A spatula is useful for scraping the sides of the food processor and mixing bowl to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking, so having a set of measuring cups and spoons is essential for this recipe.
- Cookie scoop: A cookie scoop can be used to portion out the cheesecake filling onto the baking sheet before chilling.
- Whisk: A whisk is used for beating the cream cheese until light and fluffy and for mixing the ingredients for the cheesecake filling.
- Refrigerator: The refrigerator is necessary for chilling the pumpkin cheesecake bites to set the filling and allow the flavors to meld.
Storing and Freezing Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites: A Guide
These pumpkin cheesecake bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Make sure to separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
If you want to freeze these delectable treats, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid (about 2 hours). Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To thaw, simply remove the desired number of cheesecake bites from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. Alternatively, you can transfer them to the refrigerator to thaw overnight.
For optimal flavor and texture, it's best to consume these pumpkin cheesecake bites within 1 month of freezing. Be sure to label the container with the date of freezing to keep track of their freshness.
If you notice any condensation on the cheesecake bites after thawing, gently pat them dry with a paper towel before serving to maintain their beautiful appearance and prevent sogginess.
Random Fact about Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites Recipe
Pumpkin cheesecake bites are a delightful treat that combines the flavors of pumpkin, cream cheese, and white chocolate. They are perfect for fall gatherings and parties.
Is Making Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites at Home Economical?
The cost-effectiveness of this pumpkin cheesecake bites recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients. Cream cheese and white chocolate can be pricey, but the use of pumpkin puree and spices adds value. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. Rating: 8/10.
Are Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites Healthy or Unhealthy?
This pumpkin cheesecake bites recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients - ginger snaps, graham crackers, cream cheese, and white chocolate - are all high in sugar, fat, and calories. Pumpkin puree does provide some nutritional benefits, such as fiber and vitamin A, but the amount used in this recipe is relatively small compared to the other ingredients.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Replace the ginger snaps and graham crackers with a whole-grain, lower-sugar alternative, such as whole-wheat digestive biscuits or almond flour crackers
- Use reduced-fat cream cheese to lower the overall fat content
- Swap out the white chocolate for dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), which contains more antioxidants and less sugar
- Increase the amount of pumpkin puree to boost the fiber and vitamin content
- Reduce the amount of added sugar by using a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract
- Add a handful of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to increase the protein and healthy fat content
By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced treat that still satisfies your sweet tooth while providing some nutritional benefits. Remember, moderation is key when it comes to enjoying desserts as part of a healthy lifestyle.
Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites Recipe
The pumpkin cheesecake bites recipe is a delightful fusion of fall flavors and creamy indulgence. The combination of ginger snaps and graham crackers adds a delightful crunch to the smooth, velvety texture of the cheesecake filling. The use of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice infuses the bites with warm, aromatic notes, perfect for the autumn season. The white chocolate coating adds a touch of sweetness, balancing the subtle spiciness of the pumpkin. Overall, these bites are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite.
Enhance Your Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites Recipe
Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites Recipe
Why trust this Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites Recipe:
This delectable pumpkin cheesecake bites recipe promises a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of ginger snaps and graham crackers provides a satisfying crunch, while the creamy mixture of cream cheese, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice delivers a rich and indulgent taste. The addition of white chocolate adds a touch of sweetness, perfectly complementing the earthy pumpkin flavor. With careful attention to detail and a thoughtful balance of ingredients, these cheesecake bites are sure to impress and satisfy any dessert lover's cravings.
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