These Cream Cheese Peppermint Truffles are a perfect no-bake dessert that combines creamy peppermint filling with a smooth chocolate coating, topped with festive garnishes. Quick to prepare and full of holiday cheer, they’re ideal for gifting, parties, or indulging in the season’s sweetness.
Ingredients:
The Truffle Mixture:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- 1 1/2 cups crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (e.g., Oreos)
The Coating:
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips or candy melts
- 1 tbsp coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smoother coating)
Garnish:
- Crushed candy canes
- Holiday sprinkles
Preparation:
1: Prepare the Truffle Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Stir in the peppermint extract, followed by the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies. Mix until evenly combined and a dough-like consistency forms.
2: Shape the Truffles
- Scoop the mixture into 1-inch balls and roll them between your hands to form smooth spheres.
- Place the truffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 30 minutes to firm up.
3: Melt the Chocolate Coating
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips or candy melts in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted.
- Add coconut oil or shortening, if desired, to thin the chocolate for easier coating.
4: Coat the Truffles
- Using a fork or truffle dipping tool, dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Place the coated truffles back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
5: Add Garnishes
- Immediately sprinkle crushed candy canes or holiday sprinkles over the truffles while the chocolate is still wet.
- Let the chocolate set completely by refrigerating the truffles for 30 minutes.
6: Serve and Enjoy
- Once set, transfer the truffles to a serving platter or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Variations:
- Dark Chocolate Peppermint Truffles: Use dark chocolate chips for a richer coating.
- White Chocolate Coating: Swap the semi-sweet chocolate for white chocolate for a snowy holiday look.
- Mint Chocolate Chip Truffles: Mix in mini chocolate chips into the truffle filling for added texture.
Cooking Notes:
- Chill the truffles well: Proper chilling helps the truffles maintain their shape during coating.
- Use high-quality chocolate: For the best flavor and smooth coating, choose high-quality chocolate chips or candy melts.
- Work quickly when garnishing: Add the candy canes or sprinkles immediately after dipping while the chocolate is still wet.
Serving Suggestions:
- Perfect for gifting: Pack these truffles in decorative boxes or tins for a thoughtful homemade holiday gift.
- Great for parties: Arrange these truffles on a festive dessert platter for your holiday gatherings.
- Pair with hot cocoa: Serve alongside a warm cup of peppermint hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
Tips:
- Make ahead: These truffles can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Store properly: Keep the truffles in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.
- Freeze for later: Freeze the truffles in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Prep Time:
30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Total Time:
1 hour
Nutritional Information (Per Truffle):
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 55mg
FAQs:
Q: Can I use other cookie flavors?
A: Yes, you can use mint-flavored chocolate sandwich cookies or vanilla sandwich cookies for a unique twist.
Q: Can I use store-bought cookie crumbs?
A: Absolutely! Pre-crushed cookie crumbs save time and work just as well.
Q: Can I make these truffles nut-free?
A: Yes, these truffles are naturally nut-free. Just double-check your chocolate and garnish ingredients.
Q: How do I prevent chocolate coating from cracking?
A: Allow the truffles to warm slightly from the freezer before dipping to reduce temperature shock.
Conclusion:
Cream Cheese Peppermint Truffles are an easy and festive way to spread holiday cheer. With their creamy, minty centers and smooth chocolate coating, these truffles are as delightful to make as they are to eat. Whether you’re gifting them to loved ones, serving them at a party, or enjoying them yourself, they’re sure to be a holiday favorite. Happy holidays and happy baking!
Print
Cream Cheese Peppermint Truffles
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
Ingredients:
The Truffle Mixture:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- 1 1/2 cups crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (e.g., Oreos)
The Coating:
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips or candy melts
- 1 tbsp coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smoother coating)
Garnish:
- Crushed candy canes
- Holiday sprinkles
Instructions
Preparation:
1: Prepare the Truffle Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Stir in the peppermint extract, followed by the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies. Mix until evenly combined and a dough-like consistency forms.
2: Shape the Truffles
- Scoop the mixture into 1-inch balls and roll them between your hands to form smooth spheres.
- Place the truffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 30 minutes to firm up.
3: Melt the Chocolate Coating
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips or candy melts in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted.
- Add coconut oil or shortening, if desired, to thin the chocolate for easier coating.
4: Coat the Truffles
- Using a fork or truffle dipping tool, dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Place the coated truffles back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
5: Add Garnishes
- Immediately sprinkle crushed candy canes or holiday sprinkles over the truffles while the chocolate is still wet.
- Let the chocolate set completely by refrigerating the truffles for 30 minutes.
6: Serve and Enjoy
- Once set, transfer the truffles to a serving platter or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Notes
- Chill the truffles well: Proper chilling helps the truffles maintain their shape during coating.
- Use high-quality chocolate: For the best flavor and smooth coating, choose high-quality chocolate chips or candy melts.
- Work quickly when garnishing: Add the candy canes or sprinkles immediately after dipping while the chocolate is still wet.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Nutrition
- Calories: 150
- Sodium: 55mg
- Protein: 2g