If you’re looking for a bite-sized treat that captures the dreamy flavors of classic Italian dessert in an irresistibly poppable form, Tiramisu Truffles are about to become your new obsession. These creamy, coffee-kissed confections combine the lusciousness of mascarpone, the softness of ladyfingers, and a rich chocolate shell, all rolled into truffle form. With every velvety bite, you’ll taste a gentle swirl of espresso, cocoa, and just a whisper of vanilla—impossible to stop at just one. Tiramisu Truffles are quick to whip up, delightfully elegant, and sure to turn any table into a true celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building the flavor and texture of your Tiramisu Truffles. The list is simple, but together these elements create something truly special—classic Italian comfort with a decadent twist.
- Mascarpone cheese (8 oz, softened): This ultra-creamy cheese gives your truffles that signature silky texture and authentic tiramisu flavor.
- Crushed ladyfingers (1 ½ cups, or vanilla wafer crumbs): The ladyfingers soak up espresso and add a lovely cake-like bite, while wafers can be used as a convenient swap.
- Brewed espresso or strong coffee (¼ cup, cooled): Deep, aromatic coffee flavor brings the classic tiramisu element—you can’t skip this step!
- Powdered sugar (¼ cup): Sweetens up the mixture just enough without making it cloying.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A dash of vanilla rounds out the flavors and enhances the mascarpone’s subtle sweetness.
- Cocoa powder (½ teaspoon, plus more for dusting): A touch of cocoa in the mix and as a finishing dust gives a hint of bitterness that balances every bite.
- Pinch of salt: Just a little bit makes all the difference, brightening up the truffles’ flavors.
- Semi-sweet chocolate (10 oz, melted, for coating): This chocolatey shell provides a gorgeous crunch and exterior snap.
- Optional: white chocolate drizzle or espresso powder for garnish: For an extra elegant touch, a swirl of white chocolate or a dusting of espresso looks beautiful and adds flavor.
How to Make Tiramisu Truffles
Step 1: Make the Truffle Dough
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. Add the mascarpone cheese, crushed ladyfingers or vanilla wafer crumbs, cooled espresso, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together using a sturdy spatula or spoon. You’ll notice the mixture coming together into a creamy, slightly sticky dough—the aromas of coffee and vanilla will fill the air at this step!
Step 2: Chill the Mixture
Once fully combined, cover the bowl tightly and place it in the refrigerator. Let the dough chill for about 30 minutes. This important step allows the truffle mixture to firm up, making it easier to roll into neat balls later. If your kitchen is warm, you can leave it in a bit longer to ensure a perfect texture for shaping.
Step 3: Shape the Truffles
After chilling, use a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon to portion out even amounts of the truffle mixture. Roll each portion between your hands into 1-inch balls and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. They may get a little sticky, so don’t worry—trust the process!
Step 4: Freeze the Truffles
Pop the tray of rolled truffles into the freezer for 15 to 20 minutes. This quick freeze firms them up beautifully and makes coating them in chocolate much easier, so you get a lovely, smooth finish every time.
Step 5: Coat in Chocolate
Melt the semi-sweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, stirring until silky smooth. Using a fork or dipping tool, dunk each chilled Tiramisu Truffle into the chocolate, letting the excess drip off, then return to the parchment. While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle with cocoa powder, drizzle with white chocolate, or give them a pinch of espresso powder if you want an extra flourish.
Step 6: Chill Until Set
Once all your Tiramisu Truffles are beautifully decorated, set the tray back in the fridge. In about 10 to 15 minutes, the chocolate shell will be gorgeously crisp and ready for snacking, gifting, or displaying at your next gathering.
How to Serve Tiramisu Truffles
Garnishes
To really make these truffles pop, finish them with a classic dusting of cocoa powder, a delicate drizzle of white chocolate, or a pinch of espresso powder for that extra coffee kick. Each garnish not only adds visual flair, but also hints at the treat’s rich flavors.
Side Dishes
Tiramisu Truffles pair perfectly with a hot cup of espresso, cappuccino, or even a glass of dessert wine. If you’re serving them alongside other sweets, try a plate of fresh berries or a crisp biscotti for a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress your guests by piling the truffles onto a pretty cake stand or tiered dessert tray, or pack them in a decorative box for an unforgettable edible gift. For special occasions, nestle each Tiramisu Truffle in a mini cupcake liner and arrange them on a platter—all the elegance of traditional tiramisu, none of the fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Tiramisu Truffles tucked in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The texture stays wonderfully creamy, and they’re ready to eat straight from the fridge—no waiting required.
Freezing
If you want to get ahead for a party or simply save a few for later, these truffles freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer in an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw them in the fridge overnight, and they’ll be just as delicious as when you first made them.
Reheating
With no baking involved, there’s no need to reheat! Simply allow frozen Tiramisu Truffles to defrost in the fridge, or enjoy them cold—the flavor and texture are spot on either way.
FAQs
Can I use something other than ladyfingers?
Absolutely! If you can’t find traditional ladyfingers, vanilla wafer crumbs work beautifully. The rich, buttery taste adds a twist that’s just as scrumptious as the classic base.
How do I make the truffles more boozy?
Add 1 tablespoon of coffee liqueur, like Kahlúa, to your mixture for a decadent grown-up version. Just keep in mind that a little goes a long way toward creating that signature tiramisu warmth.
What if I don’t have mascarpone?
For a quick swap, try full-fat cream cheese mixed with a bit of heavy cream. The flavor will be slightly tangier, but still lusciously creamy and delicious in your Tiramisu Truffles.
How do I prevent the truffles from sticking during dipping?
Chilling or freezing the truffles before dipping is key. If they’re still sticky, lightly dust your hands with powdered sugar or cocoa to help roll each ball with minimal mess.
Are Tiramisu Truffles safe for kids?
Definitely—just be sure to use decaf espresso or coffee if serving to children, and skip the liqueur. They’ll love the creamy, chocolatey bites just as much as the adults do!
Final Thoughts
This is the kind of dessert that turns a regular afternoon into a special occasion—every bite of Tiramisu Truffles is creamy, chocolatey, and filled with the comfort of classic tiramisu. I hope you fall in love with these little gems as much as I have, and that they become a regular treat in your kitchen. Treat yourself, share them with friends, or bring them to your next gathering… you won’t regret it!
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Tiramisu Truffles Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 24 truffles 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of tiramisu in bite-sized truffle form with these creamy and decadent Tiramisu Truffles. Perfect for a sweet treat or elegant dessert.
Ingredients
Mascarpone Mixture:
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese (softened)
- 1 ½ cups crushed ladyfingers (or vanilla wafer crumbs)
- ¼ cup brewed espresso or strong coffee (cooled)
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cocoa powder
- Pinch of salt
Coating and Garnish:
- 10 oz semi-sweet chocolate (melted, for coating)
- Optional: white chocolate drizzle or espresso powder for garnish
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, crushed ladyfingers, espresso, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Chill: Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Shape Truffles: Once chilled, scoop and roll into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for 15–20 minutes to set.
- Coat and Garnish: Dip each truffle into the melted chocolate using a fork or dipping tool, then place back on the parchment. Garnish with cocoa powder, white chocolate drizzle, or espresso powder. Chill until firm before serving.
Notes
- Store truffles in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For a boozy twist, add 1 tablespoon of coffee liqueur to the mix.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 truffle
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
