Cream Cheese Chocolate Truffles are the perfect no-bake dessert that combine rich chocolate flavor with the smooth tang of cream cheese. These bite-sized indulgences are ideal for holidays, parties, or simply when you want a quick, satisfying sweet treat. With minimal ingredients and no cooking required, they’re a go-to for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike. Rolled in cocoa powder, powdered sugar, or crushed nuts, these chocolate truffles with cream cheese offer both visual appeal and delicious variety.
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Why You’ll Love These Cream Cheese Chocolate Truffles
Cream Cheese Chocolate Truffles stand out as a foolproof, crowd-pleasing dessert that doesn’t require a stovetop or oven. They’re creamy, chocolatey, and endlessly customizable.
- Quick and easy: No baking or tempering chocolate needed.
- Versatile: Roll them in cocoa powder, powdered sugar, crushed nuts—or dip in ganache.
- Make-ahead friendly: Store them chilled and serve when ready.
- Kid-friendly: Fun and safe for kids to help shape and roll.
- Holiday-perfect: Their polished look makes them ideal for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or gift boxes.
Whether you’re looking for a bite-sized indulgence or a chocolate fix that’s hassle-free, these chocolate cream cheese truffles deliver every time.
Ingredients to Create the Perfect Chocolate Truffle
These truffles use pantry-friendly ingredients and allow flexibility for coatings and flavorings.
- Cream Cheese: The star ingredient adds tang and a smooth, creamy texture.
- Confectioners’ Sugar: Sweetens the mixture and helps with binding.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Provides rich chocolate flavor and smooth consistency when melted.
- Vanilla Extract or Liqueur: Enhances flavor—use orange liqueur for a twist.
- Cocoa Powder: Adds a classic, slightly bitter contrast to the sweet truffle center.
- Powdered Sugar (for rolling): Creates a sweet, snowy look and delicate finish.
- Crushed Walnuts: Adds crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
Smart Ingredient Swaps and Substitutions
Need to adjust for dietary needs or what’s in your pantry? Here are smart swaps:
- Dairy-free: Use vegan cream cheese and dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Nut-free: Skip the walnuts or replace with crushed pretzels or cookie crumbs.
- Flavored Variations: Swap vanilla extract for peppermint, almond, or coffee extract.
- Sweeter Truffles: Use milk chocolate chips for a milder, creamier result.
- Lower Sugar: Use sugar-free chocolate chips and adjust powdered sugar with a keto-friendly version.
These chocolate cream cheese truffles are very forgiving, making them ideal for experimentation.
How to Make Cream Cheese Chocolate Truffles – Step by Step
Making these truffles is simple and requires only a bit of mixing, chilling, and rolling. Here’s how to create the perfect batch:
- Beat the Cream Cheese: In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy with no lumps.
- Incorporate the Sugar: Add confectioners’ sugar gradually and mix until fully blended. The mixture should be thick but pliable.
- Add Chocolate and Vanilla: Stir in melted semi-sweet chocolate and vanilla extract (or liqueur) until smooth and fully combined. The mix will be dense and glossy.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour to firm it up for rolling.
- Roll into Balls: Scoop about 1 teaspoon of the chilled mixture and roll it between your palms into a 1-inch ball.
- Coat Your Truffles: Roll truffles in cocoa powder, powdered sugar, or press them gently into crushed walnuts.
- Store Properly: Keep the truffles refrigerated until ready to serve. They taste best cold due to the cream cheese base.
Tip: If the mixture is too firm after chilling, let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before rolling.
Expert Tips to Master Cream Cheese Truffles
Want to elevate your truffle-making skills? Follow these tested tips:
- Avoid Over-chilling: The chocolate will seize if over-chilled. Stick to 1 hour of fridge time.
- Use Gloves for Rolling: Helps with less mess and smoother shapes.
- Uniform Size: Use a melon baller or cookie scoop for even portions.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a splash of Kahlua, Bailey’s, or orange zest to change the flavor profile.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Serve Cold: These truffles are best enjoyed chilled to maintain their creamy texture and shape.
What to Serve with Chocolate Truffles + Creative Variations
These cream cheese chocolate truffles are excellent on their own or as part of a dessert spread. Try these ideas to complement or adapt the recipe:
- Perfect Pairings:
- Serve with a cup of espresso or dark roast coffee
- Pair with fresh berries or whipped cream
- Offer alongside a dessert wine like Port or sweet red
- Creative Variations:
- Spicy Mexican Chocolate: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne to the mix
- Mint Chocolate: Use peppermint extract and roll in crushed candy canes
- Cookies & Cream: Add crushed Oreo cookies to the mixture or use as a coating
- Ganache-Dipped Truffles: Dip truffles in chocolate ganache and chill again for a luxurious finish
- Holiday Themes:
- Valentine’s: Roll in pink sprinkles or freeze in heart-shaped molds
- Christmas: Add crushed candy canes or edible gold dust
- Halloween: Use orange-colored cocoa or spooky-themed sprinkles
A Guilt-Free Chocolate Fix That Feels Luxurious
While indulgent, these truffles offer a more balanced sweet option compared to many store-bought confections. Here’s why:
- Portion Controlled: Each truffle is small and satisfying—perfect for mindful eating.
- Customizable Sweetness: Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate to reduce sugar load.
- Cream Cheese Boost: Adds protein and a creamy texture that makes them more filling.
- No Preservatives: Made with real, whole ingredients.
These chocolate cream cheese truffles check the box for a better-for-you sweet that feels gourmet without the guilt.
Conclusion: Simple, Stunning, and Satisfyingly Sweet
Cream Cheese Chocolate Truffles are more than just a quick dessert—they’re a celebration of rich flavor, creamy texture, and effortless preparation. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, making homemade gifts, or treating yourself to something sweet, this recipe delivers consistent results every time. Plus, the endless coating and flavor options make it fun and creative. Store them in your fridge, serve them chilled, and enjoy every decadent bite. These truffles are proof that something so simple can feel incredibly indulgent.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long do cream cheese chocolate truffles last in the fridge?
Cream cheese chocolate truffles will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 7 days when stored in an airtight container. Because they contain cream cheese, it’s important to keep them cold to maintain food safety and ideal texture.
Can I freeze cream cheese truffles for later?
Yes! These truffles freeze beautifully. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll last up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Can I use white chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Absolutely. White chocolate can be used for a sweeter and creamier version of the truffles. Just be sure to use high-quality white chocolate and watch the melting process carefully to avoid burning or seizing.
More Relevant Recipes
- Peppermint Oreo Truffle Balls: A festive twist on the classic truffle, these no-bake bites blend crushed Oreos, cream cheese, and peppermint extract for a holiday-ready treat similar in style and preparation to cream cheese chocolate truffles.
- Raspberry Cheesecake Truffles: These fruity, creamy truffles combine raspberry and cream cheese in a rich chocolate shell, making them an elegant and flavorful variation on traditional chocolate truffles.
- Nutella Truffles: Rich, nutty, and chocolaty, these no-bake Nutella truffles are perfect for hazelnut lovers and share the same creamy, decadent texture as cream cheese chocolate truffles.
Cream Cheese Chocolate Truffles
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 25–30 truffles
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cream Cheese Chocolate Truffles are easy, no-bake treats made with cream cheese, melted chocolate, and powdered sugar. Rolled in cocoa powder, powdered sugar, or crushed nuts, they’re rich, creamy, and perfect for holidays or homemade gifts.
Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds creaminess and tangy flavor
- 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens and binds the mixture
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted: Provides deep chocolate flavor
- 3/4 tsp vanilla extract or orange liqueur: Enhances the flavor profile
- 1/2 cup crushed walnuts: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor (optional coating)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: For rolling, adds a light, sweet coating
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a slightly bitter contrast to the sweetness
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and mix until fully combined and smooth.
- Add the melted chocolate and vanilla extract (or liqueur) and stir until the mixture is well blended.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for 1 hour until it firms up.
- Using a teaspoon or small scoop, portion out the mixture and roll into 1-inch balls with your hands.
- Roll each truffle in either cocoa powder, powdered sugar, or press into crushed walnuts for coating.
- Place coated truffles on a tray and keep them refrigerated until ready to serve.
Notes
- Refrigerate for no more than 1 hour to avoid the mixture becoming too firm to roll.
- Use gloves or slightly damp hands to roll truffles neatly.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Let frozen truffles thaw in the fridge before serving for best texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 truffle
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg