Imagine the classic elegance of tiramisu, packed into a single, dreamy bite: that’s what you get with Tiramisu Truffles. With their creamy mascarpone base, a shot of espresso, and a dusting of cocoa powder, these truffles offer everything you love in the iconic Italian dessert, but without any baking – just pure, poppable decadence. They’re perfect for impressing guests or savoring as an everyday treat with your afternoon coffee. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll fall head over heels for their delightful richness and irresistible charm.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Tiramisu Truffles lies in the thoughtful combination of humble pantry staples and specialty ingredients. Each plays a special role in creating truffles that are silky, flavorful, and reminiscent of everyone’s favorite Italian dessert.

Mascarpone cheese: This creamy Italian cheese is the essential base, giving the truffles their lush and dreamy texture.
Crushed ladyfingers or vanilla wafers: These finely crushed cookies hold everything together and mimic the classic tiramisu flavors.
Powdered sugar: Adds just the right level of sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.
Instant espresso powder (dissolved in hot water): Delivers that quintessential coffee punch that makes tiramisu so special.
Vanilla extract: Provides a warm, aromatic backdrop that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
Salt: Just a touch to enhance and balance every other ingredient.
White chocolate chips (melted): Brings everything together with added creaminess and a hint of subtle sweetness.
Cocoa powder (for rolling): This traditional coating gives each truffle a hint of bitterness, perfectly offsetting the sweet and creamy centers.
Optional melted dark or white chocolate for drizzling: For a dazzling finish, drizzle over the truffles to impress and add a touch of extra flavor.

How to Make Tiramisu Truffles

Step 1: Make the Tiramisu Truffle Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, finely crushed ladyfingers (or vanilla wafers if you prefer a milder flavor), powdered sugar, dissolved instant espresso, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix and mash everything together until the batter is smooth, creamy, and unified – this is where the magic starts, and the aroma alone will have you swooning!

Step 2: Bring in the White Chocolate

Gently stir the melted white chocolate chips into your mascarpone mixture. This step helps everything hold together and provides a silky texture that’s positively luxurious. Keep stirring until your dough is evenly mixed and starting to hold its shape. Don’t be surprised if you sneak a taste – I always do!

Step 3: Chill for Easy Rolling

Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours (patience is part of the fun). The mixture will firm up, making it perfectly scoopable – no sticky hands or messy scooping later on. This chill time also gives all the flavors a chance to blend and deepen.

Step 4: Shape and Coat Your Truffles

Once the mixture is nicely chilled, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll in your palms to make smooth balls. I usually get about 20 truffles from this recipe. Next, roll each truffle in a shallow bowl of cocoa powder. This not only echoes the look and flavor of traditional tiramisu, but it also keeps things from sticking.

Step 5: Final Chill and Optional Drizzle

Place your finished truffles on a parchment-lined tray and return them to the fridge for another 15 minutes. If you’re feeling extra fancy, melt a little dark or white chocolate and drizzle it over the top of your Tiramisu Truffles for a dazzling finish. Now they’re ready for their debut!

How to Serve Tiramisu Truffles

Garnishes

For a picture-perfect presentation, a light dusting of extra cocoa powder just before serving makes these truffles look irresistible. If you’re hosting, a scattering of chocolate curls or a little sprinkle of finely grated espresso bean adds sophisticated flair and hints at the flavors inside.

Side Dishes

Pair these rich little bites with a cup of robust espresso or cappuccino for the ultimate Italian experience. They also play well alongside a platter of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla gelato for a well-rounded dessert spread that really wows.

Creative Ways to Present

I love placing individual Tiramisu Truffles into mini paper candy cups – it elevates the presentation and makes sharing a breeze. Stack them on a vintage cake stand for a chic party centerpiece or tuck them into a decorative gift box lined with tissue for an edible homemade gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These truffles are just as good a few days after you make them, which makes them perfect for prepping ahead. Store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh and delightful for up to five days. Just let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best flavor and creamy texture.

Freezing

If you want to get a jump on party prep or unexpected cravings, Tiramisu Truffles freeze wonderfully! Arrange them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or set them out at room temperature for an hour before enjoying.

Reheating

No heating necessary here – simply let your truffles warm up at room temperature for a few minutes if they’re coming straight from the fridge or freezer. This helps them regain their irresistible creamy bite and makes sure that espresso and mascarpone flavors shine through.

FAQs

Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?

You can substitute full-fat cream cheese if you can’t find mascarpone, though the flavor and texture will shift slightly. The truffles will still be delicious, with a tangier flavor rather than the rich, mellow creaminess of mascarpone.

Do I have to use espresso powder?

Espresso powder gives that authentic tiramisu flavor, but you can substitute strong instant coffee if needed. For kids or coffee-avoiders, try using a bit of cocoa mixed with warm water instead, though it won’t have the traditional coffee essence.

How fine should I crush the ladyfingers or wafers?

A fine crumb is key! You want a sand-like consistency so the truffles hold together and have a smooth texture. A food processor works best, but a zip-top bag and rolling pin get the job done too.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free vanilla wafers or ladyfinger-style cookies. Since the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, this makes Tiramisu Truffles an easy, crowd-pleasing treat for everyone.

Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

This recipe scales up like a dream. Simply double or triple everything, keeping the ratios the same, and follow all the same steps. Large batches are perfect for parties, potlucks, or holiday gifting!

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re making them for a special gathering or just to treat yourself, Tiramisu Truffles bring all the joy of classic tiramisu in a remarkably easy, bite-sized package. Give this recipe a try – once you taste that chocolate-dusted, coffee-infused creaminess, you’ll see why they always disappear fast in my house!

Tiramisu Truffles Recipe

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4.7 from 10 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 20 truffles 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the decadent flavors of classic tiramisu in a bite-sized form with these luscious Tiramisu Truffles. Creamy mascarpone cheese, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and a hint of white chocolate make these truffles irresistible.

Ingredients

Scale

Truffle Mixture:

1 (8 oz) package mascarpone cheese
1 1/2 cups crushed ladyfingers or vanilla wafers
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon instant espresso powder dissolved in 1 tablespoon hot water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup white chocolate chips (melted)

Coating:

1/2 cup cocoa powder
Optional: melted dark or white chocolate for drizzling

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Instructions

Prepare the Truffle Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, crushed ladyfingers, powdered sugar, espresso mixture, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth. Stir in melted white chocolate until dough forms. Chill for 1–2 hours.
Shape the Truffles: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls. Roll each truffle in cocoa powder. Chill for 15 minutes.
Optional: Drizzle truffles with melted dark or white chocolate.