These Chocolate Caramel Cream Cheese Truffles combine a smooth and creamy caramel-infused filling with a rich chocolate coating, topped with festive sprinkles or a sprinkle of sea salt for contrast. Perfect for the holidays, these no-bake treats are quick to make and look stunning on any dessert table or as edible gifts for loved ones.
Ingredients:
The Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup thick caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
The Chocolate Coating:
- 12 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smooth melting)
Topping:
- Holiday sprinkles (red, green, and white)
- Flaky sea salt (optional, for contrast)
- Crushed nuts (optional)
Preparation:
1: Make the Caramel Cream Cheese Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until fully incorporated and lump-free.
- Add the vanilla extract and thick caramel sauce, blending until smooth and combined.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours, or until firm enough to roll into balls.
2: Shape the Truffles
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Once chilled, use a small cookie scoop or spoon to scoop out portions of the filling and roll them into 1-inch balls with your hands.
- Place the truffle balls onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Return the shaped balls to the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
3: Melt the Chocolate Coating
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
- Add the coconut oil (if using) for a silky, smooth consistency. Let the melted chocolate cool slightly.
4: Coat the Truffles
- Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each truffle ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is completely coated.
- Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the truffle back onto the parchment paper.
5: Garnish the Truffles
- While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle each truffle with holiday sprinkles, flaky sea salt, or crushed nuts.
- Let the chocolate set by chilling the truffles in the refrigerator for at least 20-30 minutes.
6: Serve and Enjoy
- Once set, transfer the truffles to a decorative platter or package them in festive boxes for gifting.
Variations:
- White Chocolate Caramel Truffles: Use white chocolate for the coating and drizzle with caramel for a beautiful contrast.
- Nutty Truffles: Add 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans or almonds into the caramel filling for texture.
- Salted Caramel Twist: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over each truffle for a sweet-salty flavor profile.
Cooking Notes:
- Chill the filling well: Make sure the filling is firm enough to roll easily; chilling helps maintain the truffle shape.
- Use quality chocolate: High-quality chocolate melts smoother and provides a richer coating.
- Decorate quickly: Add toppings like sprinkles or sea salt while the chocolate is still wet to ensure they stick.
Serving Suggestions:
- Holiday Parties: Display these truffles on a festive platter as a centerpiece dessert.
- Gifting Idea: Package in decorative tins or small boxes lined with parchment paper for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Dessert Table: Serve alongside other no-bake treats, cookies, and brownies for a variety of holiday sweets.
Tips:
- Make ahead: These truffles can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Freeze for longer storage: Place truffles in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Customize toppings: Use edible glitter, crushed candy canes, or drizzled chocolate for extra holiday flair.
Prep Time:
20 minutes (plus chilling time)
Total Time:
1 hour 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Truffle):
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 80mg
FAQs:
Q: Can I use homemade caramel sauce?
A: Yes, thick homemade caramel sauce works perfectly and enhances the flavor.
Q: How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing?
A: Melt the chocolate slowly in short bursts and avoid contact with water. Adding coconut oil helps keep the chocolate smooth.
Q: Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
A: Absolutely! Milk chocolate adds a sweeter, creamier flavor.
Q: Can I freeze the truffle filling to make shaping easier?
A: Yes, freezing the filling for about 20 minutes makes it easier to roll into balls.
Conclusion:
Chocolate Caramel Cream Cheese Truffles are a rich and indulgent treat that combines creamy caramel filling with a silky chocolate coating. Simple to make and endlessly customizable, these no-bake truffles are perfect for holiday celebrations, gifting, or satisfying a chocolate craving. Enjoy each decadent, bite-sized piece!
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Chocolate Caramel Cream Cheese Truffles
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients:
The Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup thick caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
The Chocolate Coating:
- 12 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smooth melting)
Topping:
- Holiday sprinkles (red, green, and white)
- Flaky sea salt (optional, for contrast)
- Crushed nuts (optional)
Instructions
Preparation:
1: Make the Caramel Cream Cheese Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until fully incorporated and lump-free.
- Add the vanilla extract and thick caramel sauce, blending until smooth and combined.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours, or until firm enough to roll into balls.
2: Shape the Truffles
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Once chilled, use a small cookie scoop or spoon to scoop out portions of the filling and roll them into 1-inch balls with your hands.
- Place the truffle balls onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Return the shaped balls to the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
3: Melt the Chocolate Coating
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
- Add the coconut oil (if using) for a silky, smooth consistency. Let the melted chocolate cool slightly.
4: Coat the Truffles
- Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each truffle ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is completely coated.
- Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the truffle back onto the parchment paper.
5: Garnish the Truffles
- While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle each truffle with holiday sprinkles, flaky sea salt, or crushed nuts.
- Let the chocolate set by chilling the truffles in the refrigerator for at least 20-30 minutes.
6: Serve and Enjoy
- Once set, transfer the truffles to a decorative platter or package them in festive boxes for gifting.
Notes
- Chill the filling well: Make sure the filling is firm enough to roll easily; chilling helps maintain the truffle shape.
- Use quality chocolate: High-quality chocolate melts smoother and provides a richer coating.
- Decorate quickly: Add toppings like sprinkles or sea salt while the chocolate is still wet to ensure they stick.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
Nutrition
- Calories: 150
- Sodium: 80mg
- Protein: 2g