Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles - Christmas Treats
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles, the perfect treat for any special occasion or festive celebration. This easy and elegant no-bake dessert combines creamy white chocolate with tart dried cranberries and crunchy pistachios, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you're gifting them to friends and family or serving them at your next gathering, these truffles are sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the Ganache:
- 8 oz 227g white chocolate, finely chopped
- ½ cup 120ml heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup dried cranberries chopped
- ½ cup pistachios finely chopped (plus extra for rolling)
For Coating (Optional):
- ½ cup white chocolate melting wafers
- Extra chopped pistachios for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Ganache:
- Heat the Cream: In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
- Combine with Chocolate: Remove the saucepan from heat and pour the hot cream over the chopped white chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for about 1 minute to soften the chocolate.
- Stir to Smooth: Gently stir until the white chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Flavors and Mix-ins: Stir in the vanilla extract, chopped dried cranberries, and finely chopped pistachios until well combined.
Chill the Mixture:
- Refrigerate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the ganache is firm enough to scoop.
Shape the Truffles:
- Portion the Ganache: Using a small cookie scoop or melon baller, portion out the chilled ganache.
- Form Balls: Roll each portion into a smooth ball between your palms.
- Prepare for Coating: Place the rolled truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet
Coat the Truffles (Optional):
- Melt White Chocolate: If opting for a white chocolate coating, melt the white chocolate wafers in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
- Dip Truffles: Dip each truffle into the melted white chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Garnish: Immediately sprinkle with extra chopped pistachios for an added crunch and decorative touch.
- Set: Return the coated truffles to the parchment-lined baking sheet.
Set and Serve:
- Finalize: Allow the truffles to set at room temperature or place them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Store: Keep the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Notes
- Toast the Nuts – Toast the pistachios lightly before chopping to add extra crunch and a deeper, roasted flavor.
- Add Citrus Zest – Mix a pinch of orange, lemon, or lime zest into the ganache for a bright, citrusy twist that complements the white chocolate.
- Infuse the Cream – Infuse the heavy cream with herbs like rosemary or spices like cinnamon by heating them together, then strain before adding to the chocolate for subtle, aromatic notes.
- Alternative Nuts & Fruits – Swap out pistachios for almonds or hazelnuts, or try dried cherries instead of cranberries for new flavor combinations.
- Use Liqueurs – Add a tablespoon of liqueur like Grand Marnier or Amaretto to the ganache for a sophisticated, adult-friendly treat.
- Tempered Chocolate Coating – For a glossy, professional look, temper the white chocolate before coating. This makes the truffles snap when you bite into them and gives them a beautiful shine.
- Decorate with Sprinkles – Roll the truffles in sprinkles, edible glitter, or cocoa powder to add a decorative and festive touch for holidays or events.
- Freeze for Longer Storage – If you want to make the truffles ahead, freeze uncoated truffles on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container. When ready, let them thaw in the fridge before coating.
- Personalize with Flavored Extracts – Beyond vanilla, try adding almond or coconut extract to the ganache for a unique twist on flavor.
- Use Vegan Alternatives – Substitute dairy-free white chocolate and coconut cream in place of the heavy cream to create a vegan-friendly version of these truffles.