Name: Pumpkin Spice Toffee or Pumpkin Spice Truffles
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup water; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice mix; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for coating); 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for toffee); 8 oz cream cheese, softened (for truffles); 2 cups powdered sugar (for truffles); 2 cups white or dark chocolate coating (for truffles)

Jump to Recipe

This recipe brings together the warm, cozy flavors of pumpkin spice with the rich indulgence of toffee or truffles. Whether you prefer the crunchy sweetness of pumpkin spice toffee or the creamy decadence of pumpkin spice truffles, this treat is perfect for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin spice with a sweet indulgence.
Offers two variations: crunchy toffee or smooth truffles.
Easy to make with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.
Perfect for holiday gifting or as a seasonal dessert.
Can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

White chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate
Pumpkin spice seasoning
Unsalted butter
Sugar (for toffee version)
Heavy cream (for truffle version)
Vanilla extract
Salt
Optional: crushed graham crackers, nuts, or additional chocolate for coating

Directions

For pumpkin spice toffee:
- Melt butter and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until it reaches a toffee consistency (around 300°F on a candy thermometer).
- Stir in pumpkin spice and a touch of salt.
- Pour onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spreading evenly.
- While warm, sprinkle with melted white or dark chocolate and smooth over the top.
- Let it harden, then break into pieces.
For pumpkin spice truffles:
- Heat heavy cream until simmering, then pour over chopped chocolate. Stir until smooth.
- Mix in pumpkin spice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Chill the mixture until firm enough to scoop.
- Roll into small balls, then coat in cocoa powder, powdered sugar, or melted chocolate.

Servings and Timing

Servings: About 20–25 pieces of toffee or 18–20 truffles
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Chill/Set Time: 1–2 hours
Total Time: About 2 hours 30 minutes

Variations

Add crushed pecans or walnuts to the toffee before it sets for extra crunch.
Dip truffles in melted chocolate and drizzle with white chocolate for a festive look.
Use a pumpkin-flavored extract in place of vanilla for an even stronger pumpkin taste.
Make a layered bark by adding crushed graham crackers or pretzels beneath the chocolate.
Mix in a small amount of pumpkin purée (well-drained) into the truffle filling for a richer pumpkin flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Toffee: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, refrigerate in a sealed container.
Truffles: Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Both options are best enjoyed fresh but maintain their flavor well when properly stored.

FAQs

1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of white or dark chocolate?

Yes, milk chocolate works, but it will make the result sweeter. Adjust sugar in the toffee if desired.

2. How do I prevent the toffee from becoming grainy?

Cook the sugar mixture without stirring too much, and ensure it reaches the proper temperature with a candy thermometer.

3. Can I make this recipe without a candy thermometer?

Yes, but a thermometer ensures accuracy. Without one, test toffee by dropping a small amount into cold water—if it hardens and cracks, it’s ready.

4. Are truffles gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your chocolate and flavorings are gluten-free. Avoid adding cookie crumbs that contain gluten.

5. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free chocolate, coconut cream instead of heavy cream for truffles, and vegan butter for toffee.

6. How do I keep truffles from melting while rolling?

Chill the mixture well before shaping, and work quickly with cold hands. You can also dust your hands with cocoa powder.

7. Can I freeze the toffee?

Yes, freeze in layers separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

8. What’s the best way to package these for gifting?

Use decorative tins or small treat bags lined with parchment paper to keep the sweets fresh.

9. Can I add alcohol for flavor?

Yes, a splash of bourbon, rum, or pumpkin spice liqueur pairs beautifully with truffles. Avoid adding to toffee, as it can affect the texture.

10. Why didn’t my chocolate topping stick to the toffee?

The toffee may have cooled too much before adding the chocolate. Spread the chocolate on while the toffee is still warm.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Spice Toffee and Pumpkin Spice Truffles are delightful seasonal treats that bring warmth and comfort to the table. Whether you prefer the crisp, crunchy bite of toffee or the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture of truffles, both options are sure to impress. Simple to prepare, versatile with variations, and perfect for sharing, this recipe will become a favorite for autumn and holiday celebrations.