Chocolate Cheesecake Truffles

Name: Chocolate Cheesecake Truffles
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 24 truffles
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped; 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (for rolling); Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Cheesecake Truffles—they're the perfect bite-sized dessert for any occasion! The combination of rich chocolate and creamy cheesecake is simply irresistible. Plus, they're surprisingly easy to make, which means I can whip them up for parties or just as a sweet treat at home. I especially adore how these truffles have an intense chocolate flavor paired with the smooth, tangy cream cheese. If you're a chocolate lover like me, you'll definitely want to try these delightful truffles!

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2026-01-07T12:37:08.763Z

Every time I prepare these Chocolate Cheesecake Truffles, I am reminded of the joy of creating something both beautiful and delicious. The unique method of blending creamy cheesecake with a silky chocolate coating ensures a decadent treat that melts in your mouth. I often make these for gatherings, and they are always a hit!

What I found particularly helpful is to chill the cheesecakes before coating them with chocolate. This way, they hold their shape perfectly and create a beautiful finish. I like to add a pinch of sea salt on top for a sophisticated touch. Trust me, you’ll want to take your time with these; they are worth every moment!

        Why You'll Love These Truffles
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

Understanding Key Ingredients

The star of these truffles is undoubtedly the cream cheese, which provides the rich, creamy texture that complements the chocolate. Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing, as this prevents lumps and gives a smoother consistency. If you're looking for a tangier flavor, consider using mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese for a slightly different twist on the classic cheesecake taste.

Dark chocolate serves as the coating and is essential for balancing the sweetness of the truffles. Opt for high-quality chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content for a deep, complex flavor. If you prefer milk chocolate for a sweeter profile, remember that it will alter the richness of the truffles—something to keep in mind depending on your audience's taste preferences.

Perfecting Your Technique

When rolling the truffles, keep your hands lightly moistened with water to prevent the cheesecake mixture from sticking. Aim for a size that is about one inch in diameter, as this will ensure they’re bite-sized and easy to eat. If the mixture is too soft, chilling it for an additional 10 minutes in the freezer can help make rolling easier.

For coating the truffles in chocolate, make sure your melted chocolate is completely smooth and glossy, indicating it has melted correctly without overheating. If you find the chocolate seizing or becoming grainy, you can revive it by adding a small amount of vegetable oil or coconut oil to re-emulsify the mixture.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for these delightful truffles:

For the truffles

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
2 tablespoons cocoa powder (for rolling)
Pinch of salt

With everything ready, let's dive into making these truffles!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your truffles:

Make the cheesecake filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.

Shape the truffles

Using your hands, scoop out small portions of the cheesecake mixture and roll them into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for about 15 minutes to firm up.

Coat the truffles

While the truffles are chilling, melt the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Dip each frozen truffle into the melted chocolate, using a fork to roll them around. Allow the excess chocolate to drip off before placing them back on the parchment.

Chill and serve

Once all truffles are coated, refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate. When ready to serve, dust with cocoa powder for an elegant finish.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Chocolate Cheesecake Truffles!

Pro Tips

For an extra zing, try adding a few drops of orange extract to the cheesecake mixture. It pairs beautifully with the chocolate.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These truffles can be made ahead of time, which makes them perfect for parties or holiday gifting. Once you've coated the truffles in chocolate, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. They can also be frozen for longer storage. Just ensure you layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking, and they can be kept frozen for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy frozen truffles, simply remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. This way, they will soften slightly and enhance the creamy texture without compromising flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate the presentation of your truffles, consider garnishing them with a sprinkle of sea salt or finely grated orange zest for a burst of citrus. Both options beautifully complement the chocolate and cheesecake flavors. You can also serve them on a decorative platter with fresh berries for a visually appealing dessert spread.

Feel free to switch things up by adding flavorings directly to the cheesecake mixture such as espresso powder for a mocha twist or peppermint extract for a refreshing minty version. Experimenting with these variations can make each batch unique and suited to different occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor, but keep in mind it will alter the overall taste of the truffles.

→ How long do these truffles last?

These truffles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week, or in the freezer for up to three months.

→ Can I make these truffles gluten-free?

Yes! Just ensure that your ingredients, particularly the powdered sugar and any other added ingredients, are marked gluten-free.

→ What can I use instead of cream cheese?

For a non-dairy alternative, you can use cashew cream or a dairy-free cream cheese substitute.