These Christmas truffles are small, sweet bites of joy! They’re made with chocolate, cream, and your favorite festive flavors like peppermint or orange. Perfect for sharing!
Making these truffles is a fun kitchen project. You can get creative with toppings like crushed nuts or sprinkles. Plus, they taste so good, you’ll want to keep some for yourself! 🎄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This adds a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan version.
White Chocolate Chips: I love using high-quality chips for better flavor. If you’re out, regular chocolate chips (dark or milk) can also work. Just keep in mind the taste will change!
Dried Cranberries: These add a nice tartness. You can swap them for other dried fruits like cherries, raisins, or even chopped apricots based on your preference!
Powdered Sugar: While this adds sweetness, you could try using cocoa powder or crushed nuts for rolling for a twist in flavor and a fun look.
What’s the Best Way to Melt Chocolate Smoothly?
Melted chocolate is key to these truffles. Here’s how to do it without burning:
- Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat chocolate in 30-second bursts.
- Stir well each time to evenly distribute heat and avoid hot spots. This helps replicate the consistent temperature of melted chocolate.
- Let it cool slightly before mixing to ensure it won’t melt the cream cheese, keeping your truffle mixture smooth.
By following these tips, you’ll get a smooth and creamy chocolate that’s perfect for coating your truffles!
How to Make Delicious Christmas Truffles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Truffle Mixture:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 24 oz white chocolate chips (or white chocolate bars, chopped)
- 1 cup dried cranberries (or mixed dried fruit)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
For Rolling and Toppings:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, for rolling
- Optional toppings:
- Crushed peppermint candies
- Colored sanding sugar (green, red)
- Shredded coconut
- Drizzled melted white chocolate or dark chocolate
Time Needed:
This recipe requires about 2 to 2.5 hours total. You’ll need about 10-15 minutes to prepare the mixture, an hour or two for refrigeration, and then an additional 30 minutes or so for the truffles to set after assembling them. Perfect for making ahead of time for your holiday celebrations!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. This will make it easy to place and remove the truffles once they’re done!
2. Mix The Cream Cheese:
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or a spatula to beat the softened cream cheese until it’s nice and smooth. It should be creamy without any lumps.
3. Add Flavorings:
Next, stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Mix well to combine these flavors with the cream cheese.
4. Add the Dried Fruit:
Now, gently fold in the dried cranberries or your choice of mixed dried fruit. This adds a delicious chewiness to each truffle!
5. Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals. After each interval, stir until everything is smooth. Let the chocolate cool slightly before adding it to the cream cheese mixture.
6. Combine Everything:
Pour the melted white chocolate into the cream cheese mixture. Carefully fold it in using a spatula until everything is fully combined and smooth.
7. Chill the Mixture:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for about 1 to 2 hours, or until it’s firm enough to scoop and roll into balls.
8. Shape the Truffles:
Once it’s firm, use a small cookie scoop or spoon to scoop out portions of the mixture. Roll them between your hands to form smooth spheres.
9. Coat the Truffles:
Roll each truffle in powdered sugar, crushed peppermint candies, shredded coconut, or colored sanding sugar until they’re well coated. Have fun mixing and matching!
10. Add Final Touches:
If you’d like, melt more chocolate and drizzle it over some of the truffles for a beautiful finish. This optional step adds a nice touch!
11. Set the Truffles:
Place the finished truffles on your lined baking sheet. Refrigerate them for at least 30 more minutes to let them set properly.
12. Store and Enjoy:
Once set, store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve. These treats make a delightful addition to any holiday gathering or as a sweet homemade gift!
These festive Christmas truffles are creamy, sweet, and studded with tart dried cranberries that add texture and flavor. The beautiful decorative coatings make them perfect for gifting or parties. Enjoy sweet treats this holiday season!
Can I Use Different Types of Chocolate?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses white chocolate, you can substitute it with milk chocolate or dark chocolate for a different flavor profile. Just remember that the sweetness level will vary, so adjust the powdered sugar accordingly if needed!
What Can I Use Instead of Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free option, Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese substitute works well. Just ensure it’s smooth and easily mixable for the best texture in your truffles.
How Should I Store the Truffles?
Store your truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to one week, but I bet they’ll be gone much sooner than that!
Can I Freeze these Truffles?
Yes, you can freeze them! Place the truffles in a single layer in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving for the best texture.
