White Chocolate Cranberry Truffles are elegant, creamy, and full of bright holiday flavor. The filling blends smooth melted white chocolate with softened cream cheese to create a rich and velvety center. Sweet dried cranberries add chewy texture and a pop of tartness that balances the sweetness perfectly. Once dipped in more white chocolate, the truffles gain a glossy, snow-white finish that looks beautiful on Christmas dessert trays. They require no baking and come together quickly, which makes them perfect for holiday gatherings, edible gifts, and festive celebrations. Every bite delivers creamy sweetness with delightful cranberry bursts.
Why You’ll Love This White Chocolate Cranberry Truffles
The truffles are creamy and rich. The cranberries add tangy contrast. The white chocolate coating adds smoothness. The recipe is simple. The ingredients are easy to find. The truffles store well. They look elegant. They make beautiful gifts. In addition, they taste like gourmet holiday candy.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
You should try this recipe if you want a Christmas treat that looks sophisticated without requiring complicated steps. The filling mixes quickly and becomes silky and soft. The cranberries add festive color and pleasant chewiness. Because the recipe requires no baking, it is perfect for both beginners and holiday rush. You can decorate the truffles with sprinkles, glitter sugar, or additional cranberries to match any Christmas theme. These truffles are ideal for dessert boxes, cookie trays, and holiday parties.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
2 cups white chocolate chips
4 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
12 ounces white chocolate or almond bark for coating
Optional Add-Ins
Orange zest
Crushed pistachios
Holiday sprinkles
White chocolate drizzle
Dried cranberries for garnish
How to Make This White Chocolate Cranberry Truffles (Detailed)
1. Melt the White Chocolate
Place white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20–30 second intervals, stirring until completely smooth. Do not overheat.
2. Mix the Filling
Add softened cream cheese to a large bowl. Stir until smooth. Pour the melted white chocolate over the cream cheese. Mix until the texture becomes thick and creamy.
3. Add Cranberries and Vanilla
Stir in chopped dried cranberries and vanilla. Mix until the cranberries are evenly distributed.
4. Chill the Mixture
Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes. Chilling helps the mixture firm up so it can be rolled easily.
5. Shape the Truffles
Scoop one tablespoon of filling at a time. Roll each portion into a smooth, round ball. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
6. Melt the Coating Chocolate
Melt the remaining white chocolate or almond bark until smooth. Stir well to remove any lumps.
7. Dip the Truffles
Dip each truffle into the melted chocolate. Lift with a fork and let the excess drip off. Place back on the tray.
8. Decorate
Add crushed pistachios, dried cranberries, or sprinkles while the coating is still wet.
9. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for 20 minutes or until fully set. Serve chilled or package them beautifully for gifts.
Nutritional Information (Estimated per truffle)
Calories: 135
Fat: 7g
Carbs: 16g
Sugar: 13g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 40mg
Tips for the Best White Chocolate Cranberry Truffles (Detailed)
Use high-quality white chocolate for the smoothest texture. Soften the cream cheese fully before mixing. Chop cranberries finely so they mix evenly. Chill the filling long enough to firm it. Roll truffles quickly so they keep their shape. Melt the coating slowly to avoid burning. Decorate immediately before the chocolate sets. Store properly to maintain freshness.
Variations & Substitutions
Add orange zest for citrus flavor. Replace cranberries with dried cherries. Use dark chocolate for dipping. Add chopped pistachios for crunch. Roll in coconut for a snowy look. Add almond extract for a nutty twist. Use freeze-dried raspberries for extra color.
What to Serve with White Chocolate Cranberry Truffles
Serve with hot cocoa, vanilla lattes, or peppermint coffee. Add them to Christmas dessert boards. Pair with fudge, sugar cookies, or gingerbread. They also make beautiful holiday gifts in tins or treat bags.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not overheat the white chocolate. Avoid using warm cream cheese or the mixture may separate. Do not skip chilling before rolling. Avoid rolling oversized truffles because they may break during dipping. Do not store uncovered or the coating may lose its shine. Avoid stacking until fully hardened.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Freeze for up to two months. Separate layers with parchment. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Keep chilled until ready to eat.
Conclusion
White Chocolate Cranberry Truffles are festive, creamy, and beautifully balanced with sweet and tart flavors. They are simple to prepare, elegant to present, and perfect for holiday gifting or dessert trays. Each truffle delivers smooth white chocolate and bright cranberry flavor, making them a standout treat for any Christmas celebration.
10 Recipe FAQ’s
1. Can I use fresh cranberries? No, dried cranberries work best.
2. Can I freeze these truffles? Yes, freeze for up to two months.
3. Can I use almond bark? Yes, it melts easily and works well.
4. Why is my filling too soft? Chill it longer.
5. Can I add nuts? Yes, pistachios taste great.
6. Can I use flavored white chocolate? Yes, vanilla or peppermint works.
7. Can I make them ahead? Yes, 2–3 days in advance.
8. Why is my chocolate thick? Reheat gently until smooth.
9. Are they very sweet? The cranberries help balance sweetness.
10. How many truffles does this make? About 20–24 depending on size.