Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Lemon Truffles are a bright and tangy treat with a smooth, creamy center and a white chocolate coating. These bite-sized confections are perfect for spring and summer gatherings, holiday dessert platters, or as an elegant homemade gift. Their refreshing citrus flavor pairs beautifully with the richness of the chocolate, creating a balanced and irresistible sweet.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
white chocolate chipsheavy creamunsalted butterlemon zestfresh lemon juicevanilla extractpowdered sugar (for coating)optional yellow food coloring (for a vibrant hue)
directions
In a heatproof bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and butter.
Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer, then pour it over the white chocolate and butter.
Let it sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and fully melted.
Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir to combine.
If desired, add a drop of yellow food coloring for a lemony look.
Cover and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours or until firm.
Using a small scoop or spoon, roll the mixture into small balls.
Roll each truffle in powdered sugar to coat.
Place on a parchment-lined tray and chill for another 15–30 minutes to set.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 20 truffles.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 2.5 to 3 hours
Total time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Variations
Roll the truffles in shredded coconut instead of powdered sugar for texture.
Dip the truffles in melted white chocolate for a firmer shell.
Add a touch of limoncello for an adult version.
Use orange zest and juice for a citrus twist.
Dust with edible gold or glitter for a festive look.
storage/reheating
Store Lemon Truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, freeze for up to 1 month in a sealed container.
Allow frozen truffles to thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
FAQs
Can I use lemon extract instead of lemon juice?
Yes, but use sparingly. Fresh lemon juice provides the best natural flavor.
Why isn’t my mixture firming up?
Make sure you used enough white chocolate and allowed enough chilling time. You can also add a bit more chocolate if needed.
Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead?
White chocolate is best for highlighting the lemon flavor, but you can try others for variation.
Do I have to coat them in powdered sugar?
No, you can leave them plain, roll in cocoa powder, coconut, or dip in melted chocolate.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Use dairy-free white chocolate and coconut cream as a substitute for cream and butter.
Are Lemon Truffles gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
Lemon Truffles are the perfect mix of zesty and sweet, making them a refreshing addition to any dessert spread. Their creamy texture and bright flavor will win over citrus lovers and chocolate fans alike. Simple to make and easy to customize, these truffles are sure to become a favorite homemade indulgence.
PrintLemon Truffles
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 20 truffles
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These creamy and tangy lemon truffles are a refreshing no-bake treat made with white chocolate and a burst of citrus flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream and butter over medium heat until just simmering.
- Remove from heat and stir in white chocolate chips until smooth and fully melted.
- Add lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well until combined.
- Refrigerate the mixture for 2 hours or until firm enough to scoop.
- Using a small spoon or melon baller, scoop out small portions and roll into balls.
- Roll each truffle in powdered sugar to coat.
- Refrigerate for another 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Store truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For extra lemon flavor, add a few drops of lemon extract.
- Coating can also be done with finely shredded coconut or crushed cookies.