I’ve perfected these show-stopping holiday truffles that combine the rich creaminess of cheesecake with tart cranberries and smooth white chocolate. These elegant treats look professionally made but are surprisingly simple to create at home.
The Art of Holiday Truffle Making
These truffles represent the perfect holiday indulgence, inspired by classic cheesecake flavors but transformed into beautiful bite-sized treats. The combination of cream cheese and graham crackers creates an authentic cheesecake taste, while the dried cranberries add a festive touch and bright bursts of flavor.
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 250g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 150g (1½ cups) graham crackers, finely crushed
- 100g (3.5 oz) white chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
- 50g (⅓ cup) dried cranberries, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Coating:
- 300g (10.5 oz) white chocolate for dipping
- Red and green sprinkles
- Crushed pistachios
- Optional: White nonpareils for decoration
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Truffle Base
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth and free of lumps.
- Add the finely crushed graham crackers to the cream cheese and mix until well combined.
- Pour in the melted and slightly cooled white chocolate, mixing thoroughly.
- Fold in the finely chopped dried cranberries and vanilla extract until evenly distributed.
Forming the Truffles
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion the mixture into equal-sized balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
- Roll each portion between your palms to create smooth, even balls.
- Place the balls on the lined baking sheet.
- Freeze for 1 hour or until firm.
Coating and Decorating
- Just before dipping, chop the coating white chocolate into small, even pieces.
- Melt the white chocolate using a double boiler or in 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring between each interval.
- Remove truffles from freezer in small batches to prevent softening.
- Using a fork, dip each ball into the melted white chocolate.
- Tap off excess chocolate and transfer to a lined baking sheet.
- Immediately sprinkle with your choice of toppings while the chocolate is still wet.
- Allow to set completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Pro Tips for Perfect Truffles
- Temperature Control:
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth base
- Keep truffles cold between steps
- Work in small batches when dipping
- Coating Technique:
- Keep melted chocolate at the right temperature (88-90°F for white chocolate)
- Use a fork to dip and allow excess to drip off
- Tap fork gently on bowl edge to create smooth coating
- Storage:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator
- Can be made up to 5 days ahead
- Bring to room temperature for 15 minutes before serving
Nutrition Information
Per truffle (makes approximately 24 truffles):
- Calories: 165
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 2g
These festive truffles make perfect holiday gifts, party desserts, or additions to your Christmas cookie platter. Their elegant appearance and delicious taste make them a standout treat during the holiday season or any special occasion throughout the year.
The combination of smooth white chocolate coating, creamy cheesecake center, and festive cranberries creates an irresistible treat that will have your guests asking for the recipe. Store any leftover truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, though they rarely last that long!
