Description
Strawberry Cheesecake Truffles
These No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Truffles are the perfect Valentine’s Day treat! With just five ingredients, they’re full of rich strawberry flavor and creamy cheesecake goodness, all coated in a layer of white chocolate. The freeze-dried strawberries add an intense flavor while keeping the truffles smooth. Whether for a special occasion or simply to indulge your sweet tooth, these truffles are easy to make and even easier to love!
12 graham cracker sheets
1 oz bag freeze-dried strawberries
8 oz cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup powdered sugar
16 oz white chocolate or vanilla almond bark
Directions:
1. Crush graham crackers in a food processor.
2. Blend in freeze-dried strawberries.
3. Add cream cheese and blend until smooth.
4. Mix in powdered sugar.
5. Scoop into balls, place on parchment paper, and freeze for 15-30 mins.
6. Melt white chocolate, dip truffles, and let set.
7. Drizzle extra chocolate and top with crumbs or sprinkles.
Prep Time: 1 hr 45 mins
Kcal: 150 per truffle
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect truffles every time. First, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. In a food processor, pulse the graham crackers into fine crumbs. Add the entire bag of freeze-dried strawberries and process again until you have a uniform, pink-tinged powder. Add the softened cream cheese and blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth and homogenous, scraping down the sides as needed. Add the powdered sugar and pulse until just combined. The mixture will be soft and sticky.
Using a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon, portion the mixture, rolling quickly between your palms to form 1-inch balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. For easier handling, freeze the balls for a minimum of 30 minutes until very firm. Melt the white chocolate or almond bark in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second bursts, stirring thoroughly between each, until completely smooth. Using a fork or dipping tools, dip each frozen ball into the chocolate, tap off the excess, and return it to the parchment. Allow the coating to set completely before adding decorations.
Serving Suggestions
These truffles are versatile for presentation. Arrange them in petite paper candy cups on a decorative platter for a party. For a romantic touch, package a few in a small gift box tied with a ribbon. They pair wonderfully with fresh berries, a glass of champagne, or a cup of coffee. Store leftovers in a single layer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
How-to Summary
In brief: Process graham crackers and freeze-dried strawberries into powder. Blend with softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Roll into balls and freeze until solid. Dip the frozen balls in melted white chocolate, let set, and decorate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried? No, fresh strawberries add too much moisture and will prevent the truffle mixture from setting properly. Freeze-dried fruit provides intense flavor without the water content.
My mixture is too sticky to roll. What should I do? This is common. Simply chill the entire mixture in the bowl in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes before scooping and rolling. You can also lightly dust your hands with powdered sugar.
What can I use instead of white chocolate? Vanilla almond bark or candy melts are excellent alternatives as they set firmly. You can also use dark, milk, or pink candy melts for a different flavor and look.
How can I prevent the chocolate from cracking when I dip? Ensure your truffle centers are very cold, but your melted chocolate is not too hot. A slight temperature difference is good, but extreme contrast causes cracking. Let the chocolate cool slightly after melting.
Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely. The uncoated truffle balls can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before dipping. Fully finished truffles keep well in the fridge for a week.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using cold cream cheese, as it will not blend smoothly and can create lumps. Do not skip the freezing step before dipping; a firm center is crucial for a clean coating. When melting chocolate, do not overheat it, as it can seize and become grainy. Stir frequently and use low, incremental heat. Finally, do not add the decorative drizzle or sprinkles until the base chocolate coat is fully set.
Conclusion
These No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Truffles are a stunningly simple yet impressive dessert. By combining a few key ingredients and following the detailed steps, you can create a professional-looking treat packed with flavor. Perfect for gifting or celebrating, they are sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!