It tis the season…Pumpkin season.  I had to get in one pumpkin recipe before the Christmas extravaganza started.   At one time I loved all things pumpkin, but I am almost, a tiny bit, almost.., sick of all the pumpkin going on.   Anyone else feel that way?  Pumpkin is the fall version of Sliders….You can’t escape it.  Fortunalty I am only “kinda” tired of it, I still have some love for the orange squash.

Truffles are a great way to play with flavor combinations.  Small enough to not commit to entire desserts, and at the same time big enough to be impactful with strong flavor profiles.

Chili Pumpkin Truffles- Modified from Whole Foods recipe

• 2 ½ cup white chocolate chips
• 1/3 cup finely chopped gingersnaps, about 6 cookies
• ¼ canned pumpkin puree
• ¼ cup finely chopped graham crackers, 2 whole wafers
• 1 tablespoon confectioner sugar
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 ounces cream cheese
• Butterscotch morsels

Start by melting 1/2 cup of the chocolate in a double boiler over medium-low heat, stirring often to keep the chocolate from burning. Transfer to a large bowl.  Combine gingersnap crumbs, pumpkin, graham cracker crumbs, sugar, chili powder, salt and cream cheese and beat with an electric mixer until smooth. Transfer to a shallow bowl, cover and chill until just solid enough to roll into balls, at least 2 hours.

Line a large sheet tray with parchment paper. Melt remaining 2 cups chocolate and transfer to a small, deep bowl. Roll 1 heaping teaspoon of the pumpkin mixture into a ball in your hands, then drop into the chocolate. Working quickly, gently spoon chocolate over to coat. Using a small spoon or fork, lift the truffle out of the chocolate, shake off excess and transfer to prepared sheet tray. Dollop a bit of extra chocolate on any parts that remain exposed, then sprinkle a few gingersnap or graham cracker crumbs over the top, if you like. Repeat process with remaining pumpkin mixture and chocolate, then chill truffles until chocolate is completely set, about 1 hour. Melt Butterscotch morsels and drizzle over top of truffles.

Truffles are fun for the kids to help with as well, rolling balls and dipping into the chocolate.  Great way to keep them occupied while the game is on!

Hopefully you aren’t “pumpkinned” out yet and left room for one more recipe!!  Great idea for hostess gifts over Thanksgiving!