Hey y’all! If you’re searching for a treat that screams holiday cheer and tastes like a bite-sized piece of winter bliss, look no further than these Peppermint Truffles With Cream Cheese. They’re creamy, chocolatey, boast a dreamy peppermint crunch, and come together in no time — no oven required. Perfect for Christmas parties, as homemade gifts, or just a sweet snack to satisfy your cravings all year long. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Truffles With Cream Cheese Recipe
- These truffles are irresistibly creamy with a refreshing peppermint kick.
- They’re totally no-bake, making them ideal for busy schedules and hot kitchens.
- Perfect make-ahead treat for gifting, potlucks, or festive gatherings.
- Customizable with different coatings and toppings to suit any occasion or taste.
- Keeps well in the fridge, so you can enjoy them all week long.
Peppermint Truffles With Cream Cheese Ingredients
- 8 oz (226g) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
- 2 1/4 cups (225g) crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (about 24 cookies, cream removed)
- 1/2 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
- 1 cup (175g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup (175g) white chocolate chips (for drizzling, optional)
- 1/3 cup (40g) crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
How to Make Peppermint Truffles With Cream Cheese: Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Truffle Base
In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add peppermint extract and beat until combined.
Step 2: Incorporate the Cookie Crumbs
Fold in the crushed chocolate cookies with a spatula until evenly incorporated. The mixture should be slightly stiff and scoopable.
Step 3: Scoop and Shape the Truffles
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out about 1-inch balls and roll between your palms for a smooth finish. Place truffles on prepared sheet. Freeze for 25-30 minutes until firm.
Step 4: Coat in Chocolate
Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Use a fork to dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off. Return to parchment and sprinkle immediately with crushed peppermint candies. Repeat with all truffles.
Step 5: Optional White Chocolate Drizzle
If desired, melt white chocolate chips and drizzle over truffles for a festive touch. Allow chocolate to set at room temperature (about 30 minutes) or speed things up in the refrigerator.
Notes & Helpful Tips for the Best Peppermint Truffles With Cream Cheese
- For easy dipping, use a fork or toothpick to handle the truffles when coating with chocolate.
- Soften cream cheese fully for ultra-smooth truffle dough. Learn more about how to properly soften cream cheese.
- Keep any leftover crushed peppermint candies in a sealed bag for topping hot chocolate or other desserts!
Peppermint Truffles With Cream Cheese Variations
- Dark Chocolate Peppermint Truffles: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Mint Oreo Truffles: Use mint-flavored sandwich cookies instead of regular chocolate cookies for an extra minty twist.
- Vegan Version: Substitute with vegan cream cheese, plant-based cookies, and dairy-free chocolate chips.
Required Equipment for Peppermint Truffles With Cream Cheese
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or sturdy whisk
- Spatula
- Small cookie scoop or tablespoon
- Parchment-lined baking sheet
- Microwave-safe bowls
- Fork or toothpick (for dipping)
Peppermint Truffles With Cream Cheese Storage Instructions
Store truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze in a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving for the best creamy texture.
Serving Recommendations & Pairings
- Serve these Peppermint Truffles With Cream Cheese with a mug of hot cocoa or coffee.
- Pair with a sparkling wine for a festive dessert board.
- Great as part of a holiday treat platter alongside cookies and fudge.
Pro Tips for Perfect Peppermint Truffles With Cream Cheese
- Use block-style cream cheese for the best texture (not whipped or from a tub). For more details, check out block vs tub cream cheese.
- Chill truffles thoroughly before dipping to prevent melting in the warm chocolate.
- For a crunchier finish, roll truffles in extra crushed peppermint candies before the chocolate fully sets. See more peppermint dessert inspiration.
Peppermint Truffles With Cream Cheese FAQ
- Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
- It’s best to use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture, but low-fat can work in a pinch—the result will be slightly less rich.
- Do I have to remove the cream from the cookies?
- Yes, removing the cream ensures the dough isn’t too sticky and the peppermint flavor shines.
- How far ahead can I make these truffles?
- You can make them up to 7 days ahead if refrigerated, or freeze for up to 2 months for longer storage.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: Makes about 24 truffles
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 1 cup crushed peppermint candies
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
-
1In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
-
2Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
-
3Melt the chocolate chips and butter together in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds, until fully melted and smooth.
-
4Add the melted chocolate mixture to the cream cheese mixture and blend until thoroughly incorporated.
-
5Chill the mixture for 1 hour, then scoop and roll into small balls. Roll each truffle in crushed peppermint candies to coat.
-
6Arrange truffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate until firm. Serve chilled.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
Did you make this recipe?
Please consider Pinning it!!
