These Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles are a delightful treat for any occasion, combining the tartness of dried cranberries with the richness of white chocolate and the crunch of pistachios. They’re incredibly easy to make and perfect for gifting, holiday gatherings, or just indulging in a little sweet treat yourself.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
- ½ cup shelled pistachios, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Melt the White Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the white chocolate chips and heavy cream together in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.
2. Add the Flavor:
Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, if using, for added flavor. Mix well.
3. Fold in the Mix-ins:
Gently fold in the chopped dried cranberries and chopped pistachios, reserving some pistachios for coating the truffles later.
4. Chill the Mixture:
Refrigerate the mixture for about 1-2 hours, or until firm enough to scoop and roll into balls.
5. Shape the Truffles:
Once chilled, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Coat the Truffles:
Roll each truffle in the reserved chopped pistachios to coat the outside. Press the pistachios gently into the truffle to ensure they stick.
7. Chill Again:
Refrigerate the coated truffles for another 30 minutes to firm up before serving.
Tips for Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles:
- Storage:
Store these truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw them in the refrigerator before serving. - Variations:
You can substitute the white chocolate with dark or milk chocolate if you prefer. Other dried fruits like cherries or apricots also work wonderfully in place of cranberries. - Serving:
These truffles make great edible gifts for the holidays. Place them in decorative boxes or wrap them in festive cellophane bags tied with a ribbon.
FAQs About Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles:
Can I make these truffles vegan?
Yes! Simply use dairy-free white chocolate and replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.
Can I make these truffles without nuts?
Absolutely. If you prefer not to use pistachios or have a nut allergy, you can substitute them with crushed graham crackers, shredded coconut, or even crushed pretzels for a salty-sweet twist.
Can I add extra flavors to the truffles?
Yes, feel free to add a touch of citrus zest (like orange or lemon) to the mixture for a bright flavor contrast.
Can I coat these truffles with something else?
If pistachios aren’t your favorite, try rolling the truffles in shredded coconut, cocoa powder, or finely crushed cookies.
These Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles are a sweet, luxurious treat that brings together the perfect balance of tart cranberries, creamy white chocolate, and crunchy pistachios. They’re not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing you to add your personal touch with different coatings or flavors. Whether for holiday gifting or just a simple dessert, these truffles are sure to impress anyone who tries them!
