Introduction

Chocolate truffles are a wonderfully rich and creamy treat that melts in your mouth. This peppermint-infused recipe combines smooth cream cheese with semisweet chocolate and Andes mints for a festive twist. Perfect for gifting or savoring at home, these truffles are as delightful to make as they are to eat.

The image shows a collection of round chocolate truffles on a white marbled surface, each coated in smooth dark chocolate with thin, even stripes of light green drizzle on top. Some truffles are whole, with a glossy finish, while a few are cut open to reveal a soft, rich, dark brown interior with a crumbly texture. The truffles are arranged closely together, highlighting their shiny surface and the contrast between the dark chocolate and the pale green drizzle. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips (such as Ghirardelli Premium Baking Chips)
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup chopped Andes mints
1 tsp peppermint essence
1 package chocolate melting wafers (such as Wilton Candy Melts) for coating
1 cup white chocolate melting wafers (colored green with gel food coloring) for garnish
1/2 cup chopped Andes mints (for an extra minty crunch garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. Add the peppermint essence and mix until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Melt the semisweet chocolate chips and chopped Andes mints by microwaving at 50% power in 30-second intervals. Stir after each interval until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
Step 3: Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the cream cheese mixture and beat thoroughly until smooth and evenly combined.
Step 4: Transfer the chocolate mixture onto plastic wrap, shape it into a log, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for 45 minutes to firm up.
Step 5: Once chilled, roll the mixture into one-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking tray, spaced apart to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Melt the chocolate melting wafers in the microwave at 50% power using 30-second bursts. Keep the melted chocolate warm by placing the bowl over a pot of simmering water.
Step 7: Dip each truffle ball into the melted chocolate using a fork to fully coat it. Lift and gently tap off excess chocolate, then place back on the parchment paper.
Step 8: Immediately sprinkle chopped Andes mints on top of each coated truffle for extra crunch, or wait to drizzle the green-colored white chocolate over all truffles once dipped. Allow the truffles to set completely before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a stronger peppermint flavor, add a few extra drops of peppermint essence, but be careful not to overpower the chocolate.
Use dark chocolate melting wafers for a richer, more intense coating alternative.
Instead of rolling truffles by hand, you can use a small cookie scoop for evenly sized pieces.
Try rolling truffles in crushed candy canes or cocoa powder for a different finish.

Storage

Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Let them come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving. To reheat and soften slightly, leave at room temperature or gently warm in the microwave on low power for a few seconds.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with round chocolate truffles, each covered in a dark chocolate coating and decorated with light green stripes that wrap around the surface. One truffle on top is bitten, showing a creamy, light brown center. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a green spoon and a white cloth nearby, adding simple and soft colors to the scene. A woman's hand is gently holding the bowl from the left side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of chocolate for the filling?

Yes, you can substitute semisweet chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate chips depending on your preference. Keep in mind that the flavor and sweetness level will vary accordingly.

Do I need to use peppermint essence?

While peppermint essence adds a refreshing twist, it’s optional. You can omit it or replace it with vanilla extract for a classic chocolate truffle flavor.