White Chocolate Strawberry Truffles Recipe
Let me tell you, if there’s one dessert that consistently steals the show at gatherings, it’s white chocolate strawberry truffles. These creamy little bites of heaven combine the velvety sweetness of white chocolate with a punch of strawberry flavor, making them the ultimate treat for anyone who loves a balance of rich and fruity. Plus, they look as good as they taste, with their glossy chocolate coating and a sprinkle of vibrant strawberry powder.
I still remember the first time I made these truffles. It was a chilly Saturday, and I had just discovered freeze-dried strawberries at a local specialty store. Something about their intense aroma and bright color sparked the idea to incorporate them into a homemade dessert. After experimenting in the kitchen (and making a bit of a mess), I ended up with these truffles that were almost too pretty to eat. Almost. One bite, and I was hooked.
Whether you’re prepping these for a romantic dinner, gifting them to a loved one, or treating yourself to a weekend indulgence, these truffles are pure magic. Trust me, they’ll make you look like a pro pastry chef, even if you’re just a home cook with a sweet tooth.
A sweet bite of history
Did you know that truffles were inspired by the rustic, uneven appearance of the underground fungi of the same name? The original chocolate truffles, created in France in the 1920s, were coated in cocoa powder to mimic the earthy look of real truffles. Over time, variations like these white chocolate and fruit versions evolved, making them a fun, customizable dessert. Freeze-dried fruits are a more modern addition, offering concentrated flavor and a pop of natural color that really stands out.
Let’s talk ingredients: strawberries, cream, and all that good stuff
The secret to these truffles is in the ingredients, so let’s break it down:
- White cooking chocolate: The star of the show, white chocolate brings creamy sweetness to the truffles. Look for high-quality white chocolate with cocoa butter for the best flavor and smooth texture. If you’re out of white chocolate bars, white chocolate chips can work, but avoid overly sweet brands.
- Thickened/heavy cream: This is what makes the truffle filling luscious and silky. Double cream works too, but avoid anything labeled “light” or low-fat—it won’t give you the same richness.
- Freeze-dried strawberries: These little gems pack an intense, tangy strawberry flavor without adding moisture. You can use pre-made strawberry powder or make your own by blitzing freeze-dried strawberries in a food processor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping in freeze-dried raspberries or mango for a fruity twist.
- Strawberry powder for garnish: Not just a pretty touch, this adds a subtle extra pop of flavor to the outer layer.
- Chocolate for coating: You’ll need extra white chocolate to create that glossy shell. It’s like wrapping a gift—the better the coating, the more stunning the final product.
Kitchen gear: What you need to nail this recipe
Good news: you won’t need a lot of fancy tools to make these truffles. Here’s what I recommend:
- Food processor: Perfect for blitzing freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder. If you don’t have one, you can crush them manually with a rolling pin (put them in a zip-top bag first to avoid a mess!).
- Small saucepan: For heating the cream. A sturdy pot will ensure even heating without scorching.
- Heat-proof bowls: You’ll need these for melting chocolate and mixing the ganache. Glass or stainless steel works best.
- Silicone spatula: Ideal for stirring chocolate without introducing air bubbles.
- Baking sheet and parchment paper: For chilling and assembling the truffles.
- Small scoop or spoon: This helps portion the truffles evenly.
- Fork or truffle dipper: Makes dipping the truffles a breeze and keeps your fingers clean.
Step-by-step: How to make white chocolate strawberry truffles
Here’s how we’re going to bring this dreamy dessert to life. I promise it’s easier than it looks.
1. Prepare the strawberry powder
Blitz the freeze-dried strawberries in a small food processor until they become a fine powder. Sift the powder to remove any seeds or lumps. This step ensures the powder mixes smoothly into the ganache. (Pro tip: Make a little extra for garnishing at the end!)
2. Make the ganache
Heat the cream in a small saucepan over low heat until it just starts to simmer. While that’s happening, chop your white chocolate into small pieces and place it in a heat-proof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for two minutes (resist the urge to stir right away). Once the chocolate starts to melt, gently stir with a spatula until you have a silky, shiny ganache. Add the strawberry powder and mix until it’s fully incorporated.
3. Chill the mixture
Transfer the ganache to a small dish or container. Cover it with plastic wrap, making sure the wrap touches the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least three hours, or until the ganache is firm enough to handle.
4. Shape the truffles
Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of the firm ganache and roll it between your hands to form a ball. Place each truffle on a parchment-lined baking sheet. (Don’t stress if they’re not perfect—they’ll look amazing once coated.) Chill the truffles in the freezer for 15 minutes or in the fridge for 30 minutes.
5. Coat in chocolate
Melt the white chocolate for the coating in 30-second bursts in the microwave, stirring each time to avoid overheating. Once smooth, dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate, using a fork or truffle dipper to coat them evenly. Tap off the excess chocolate and place the truffles back on the parchment-lined tray.
6. Add the final touch
Before the coating sets, sprinkle each truffle with a pinch of crushed freeze-dried strawberries for a pop of color and flavor. Let the truffles chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to set.
Variations and tweaks to make them your own
- Vegan option: Use coconut cream and dairy-free white chocolate to make these truffles vegan-friendly. The coconut flavor adds a tropical vibe.
- Dark chocolate twist: Swap the white chocolate for dark chocolate if you prefer a deeper, bittersweet flavor.
- Citrus flair: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the ganache for a citrusy note that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.
- Holiday edition: Mix crushed candy canes into the ganache and sprinkle some on top of the coating for a festive touch.
- Nutty delight: Roll the truffles in finely chopped pistachios or almonds before coating for added crunch.
Serving and presentation ideas
Serve these truffles on a pretty platter lined with parchment paper or arrange them in individual mini cupcake liners. They make a stunning addition to dessert boards or look lovely packaged in a gift box with a ribbon. Garnish the platter with fresh strawberries for a vibrant touch.
Perfect drink pairings
These truffles pair beautifully with a glass of chilled rosé or sparkling wine. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a cup of Earl Grey tea or a strawberry lemonade works perfectly to complement the fruity flavors.
Storing and reheating tips
Store the truffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. If you want to make them in advance, freeze them before coating in chocolate, then thaw in the fridge and finish with the coating.
Adjusting for different serving sizes
This recipe makes about 15 truffles, but you can easily scale it up or down. Just keep in mind that smaller batches might set more quickly, while larger batches will need more cooling time.
Common issues (and how to avoid them)
- Ganache too runny? Make sure you’re using thickened or heavy cream, and chill the mixture long enough.
- Coating too thick? Melt the chocolate slowly and stir thoroughly to keep it smooth and pourable.
- Truffles melting while shaping? Keep your hands cool or pop the mixture back in the fridge for a bit.
Go ahead, give them a try!
These white chocolate strawberry truffles are a labor of love, but the result is so worth it. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because (my favorite reason), they’re guaranteed to impress. I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out—don’t forget to share your twists and variations!
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?
Unfortunately, fresh strawberries add too much moisture and can affect the texture. Stick to freeze-dried for the best results.
2. How do I prevent the coating from cracking?
Make sure the truffles aren’t too cold before dipping, as the sudden temperature change can cause cracks.
3. Can I use milk chocolate instead?
Absolutely! Just note that the flavor will be less sweet and more balanced.
4. Do I have to sift the strawberry powder?
It’s not mandatory, but it helps remove seeds and ensures a smoother ganache.
5. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! They store beautifully in the fridge for up to a week.
White Chocolate Strawberry Truffles Recipe
Decadent white chocolate strawberry truffles with a creamy filling and tangy strawberry flavor. Perfect for any occasion!
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 15 1x
Ingredients
- 250 gr White Cooking Chocolate
- 80 ml Thickened / Heavy Cream
- 15 gr Freeze Dried Strawberries – or Strawberry Powder – plus extra to garnish
- 150 gr White Cooking Chocolate – for the coating
Instructions
1. Prepare the strawberry powder
Blitz the freeze-dried strawberries in a small food processor until they become a fine powder. Sift the powder to remove any seeds or lumps. This step ensures the powder mixes smoothly into the ganache. (Pro tip: Make a little extra for garnishing at the end!)
2. Make the ganache
Heat the cream in a small saucepan over low heat until it just starts to simmer. While that’s happening, chop your white chocolate into small pieces and place it in a heat-proof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for two minutes (resist the urge to stir right away). Once the chocolate starts to melt, gently stir with a spatula until you have a silky, shiny ganache. Add the strawberry powder and mix until it’s fully incorporated.
3. Chill the mixture
Transfer the ganache to a small dish or container. Cover it with plastic wrap, making sure the wrap touches the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least three hours, or until the ganache is firm enough to handle.
4. Shape the truffles
Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of the firm ganache and roll it between your hands to form a ball. Place each truffle on a parchment-lined baking sheet. (Don’t stress if they’re not perfect—they’ll look amazing once coated.) Chill the truffles in the freezer for 15 minutes or in the fridge for 30 minutes.
5. Coat in chocolate
Melt the white chocolate for the coating in 30-second bursts in the microwave, stirring each time to avoid overheating. Once smooth, dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate, using a fork or truffle dipper to coat them evenly. Tap off the excess chocolate and place the truffles back on the parchment-lined tray.
6. Add the final touch
Before the coating sets, sprinkle each truffle with a pinch of crushed freeze-dried strawberries for a pop of color and flavor. Let the truffles chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to set.
Notes
Serving and presentation ideas
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert