These Cream Cheese Chocolate Truffles are a rich, creamy, no-bake dessert that combines a luscious cream cheese filling with a smooth chocolate coating. Topped with festive sprinkles or a dusting of powdered sugar, they’re perfect for holiday celebrations or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Ingredients:
The Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or finely crushed biscuits)
The Chocolate Coating:
- 12 oz (340g) semi-sweet or milk chocolate, melted
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (optional, for smoother coating)
Toppings:
- Festive sprinkles (red, green, and white)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Preparation:
1: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Stir in the graham cracker crumbs until the mixture is thick and pliable.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm enough to shape.
2: Shape the Truffles
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, scoop out small portions of the chilled filling and roll them into 1-inch balls with your hands.
- Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for another 30 minutes to firm up.
3: Coat the Truffles in Chocolate
- In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt the semi-sweet or milk chocolate. Stir in the coconut oil for a smoother consistency (optional).
- Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each truffle into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the truffle back onto the parchment-lined sheet.
4: Add Toppings and Chill
- While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle the truffles with festive sprinkles or lightly dust with powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
- Refrigerate the truffles for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate coating is fully set.
5: Serve or Gift
- Serve chilled or at room temperature on a decorative plate.
- For gifting, arrange the truffles in festive boxes or jars lined with parchment paper.
Variations:
- Peppermint Truffles: Add 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract to the cream cheese filling and top with crushed candy canes.
- Coconut Delight Truffles: Mix 1/4 cup shredded coconut into the filling and roll the finished truffles in more coconut for a tropical twist.
- Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Truffles: Use dark chocolate for coating and sprinkle with flaky sea salt for a sophisticated flavor.
Cooking Notes:
- Chill for easier handling: The filling mixture is easier to roll into balls when chilled properly.
- Use high-quality chocolate: Better chocolate will result in a smoother and more flavorful coating.
- Decorate immediately: Add toppings while the chocolate is still wet to ensure they adhere.
Serving Suggestions:
- Elegant dessert platter: Serve on a festive tray alongside other holiday treats.
- Gift-worthy presentation: Arrange in decorative boxes or cellophane bags tied with ribbons for homemade gifts.
- Pair with coffee: Enjoy with a cup of espresso or hot cocoa for a delightful dessert experience.
Tips:
- Make it ahead: These truffles can be made 2–3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Store leftovers properly: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for longer storage: Truffles can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Prep Time:
30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Total Time:
2 hours
Nutritional Information (Per Truffle):
- Calories: 140
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 35mg
FAQs:
Q: Can I use white chocolate for the coating?
A: Yes, white chocolate works wonderfully and adds a sweet contrast to the filling.
Q: Can I make these truffles nut-free?
A: Absolutely! Just ensure the graham crackers and other ingredients are free of cross-contamination.
Q: Can I substitute the graham cracker crumbs?
A: Yes, crushed digestive biscuits or gingersnaps make excellent substitutes.
Q: How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing?
A: Melt chocolate slowly over low heat and ensure no water comes into contact with it.
Conclusion:
Cream Cheese Chocolate Truffles are the ultimate holiday indulgence, combining a rich cream cheese filling with a luscious chocolate coating. Whether you’re serving these at a festive gathering or gifting them to loved ones, these truffles are guaranteed to impress. Enjoy every creamy, chocolaty bite!
PrintCream Cheese Chocolate Truffles
- Total Time: 2 hours
Ingredients
Ingredients:
The Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or finely crushed biscuits)
The Chocolate Coating:
- 12 oz (340g) semi-sweet or milk chocolate, melted
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (optional, for smoother coating)
Toppings:
- Festive sprinkles (red, green, and white)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Preparation:
1: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Stir in the graham cracker crumbs until the mixture is thick and pliable.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm enough to shape.
2: Shape the Truffles
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, scoop out small portions of the chilled filling and roll them into 1-inch balls with your hands.
- Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for another 30 minutes to firm up.
3: Coat the Truffles in Chocolate
- In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt the semi-sweet or milk chocolate. Stir in the coconut oil for a smoother consistency (optional).
- Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each truffle into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the truffle back onto the parchment-lined sheet.
4: Add Toppings and Chill
- While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle the truffles with festive sprinkles or lightly dust with powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
- Refrigerate the truffles for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate coating is fully set.
5: Serve or Gift
- Serve chilled or at room temperature on a decorative plate.
- For gifting, arrange the truffles in festive boxes or jars lined with parchment paper.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Nutrition
- Calories: 140
- Sodium: 35mg
- Protein: 2g