If you’re looking for an irresistible bite-sized dessert that’s equal parts festive and decadent, Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles are the answer you’ve been searching for. These no-bake beauties combine velvety white chocolate with tart dried cranberries and nutty pistachios for a holiday treat that practically sparkles on any dessert table. The best part: they look and taste gourmet, but are secretly quick and easy to whip up at home!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ready to create a show-stopping treat? All you need are a handful of simple ingredients, each bringing their own magic to these truffles. From creamy white chocolate to zesty cranberries and buttery pistachios, these components ensure every bite hits all the right notes of flavor and texture.
- White chocolate chips: The star ingredient, giving these truffles their luscious, creamy base and sweet flavor.
- Heavy cream: Adds richness and helps melt the chocolate into a silky truffle mixture.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the sweetness and elevates the flavor profile with warmth.
- Dried cranberries (finely chopped): Add tartness and pops of chewy texture and color.
- Shelled pistachios (finely chopped): Bring a nutty crunch and gorgeous green hue that’s perfect for the holidays.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and helps the other flavors shine through.
- Additional chopped pistachios and cranberries for rolling (optional): Perfect for a festive finish and added texture.
How to Make Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate and Cream
Start by placing the white chocolate chips and heavy cream in a heatproof bowl. Microwave the mixture in 20-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each burst until the chocolate is completely smooth and glossy. Be patient and don’t overheat—low and slow is key for silky results!
Step 2: Mix in Flavor and Texture
Once your chocolate and cream are perfectly blended, stir in the vanilla extract, pinch of salt, chopped cranberries, and chopped pistachios. This is where the magic happens—those tart berries and crunchy nuts transform the creamy chocolate into a festive celebration of color and taste.
Step 3: Chill the Mixture
Cover your bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. You want the mixture to firm up enough so you can easily scoop it into truffle shapes. Don’t rush this step—well-chilled chocolate is the secret to mess-free rolling.
Step 4: Shape the Truffles
Once the mixture is firm, use a small cookie scoop or spoon to portion out 1-inch balls. Roll each portion between your hands for a smooth, round shape. It’s a little messy, but totally worth it—think of it as edible crafting!
Step 5: Roll in Toppings (Optional, but Recommended!)
For the ultimate festive flair, roll your Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles in extra chopped pistachios and cranberries. The blend of jewel-like green and ruby red is stunning! Place the finished truffles onto a parchment-lined tray.
Step 6: Final Chill
Return your tray of truffles to the refrigerator for another 30 minutes. This last chill helps them set up perfectly and become easy to handle for serving or gifting.
How to Serve Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles
Garnishes
Add extra wow factor by sprinkling a few chopped pistachios and cranberries on top of each truffle, or even drizzle with melted white chocolate. These details make every truffle look like it came straight from a high-end confectionary shop!
Side Dishes
These truffles pair dreamily with a hot beverage—think rich coffee, creamy hot chocolate, or a festive glass of sparkling wine. If you’re putting together a dessert platter, they play beautifully with shortbread cookies or salty pretzels to balance out their sweet, creamy profile.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra-special presentation, arrange your Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles in mini cupcake papers and pack them into a decorative tin or box for a homemade holiday gift. You can even skewer them onto lollipop sticks for a fun party twist or stack them in a glass jar for a modern, edible centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover truffles in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay wonderfully fresh for about a week, making them perfect for prepping ahead or snacking over the holiday season.
Freezing
If you need to make these even further in advance, Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles freeze beautifully. Place the truffles on a parchment-lined tray to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to two months.
Reheating
No need to reheat these truffles—they’re best served chilled or at room temperature! If frozen, just thaw them in the refrigerator for a few hours before enjoying. They’ll be just as luscious and creamy as the day you made them.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Stick with dried cranberries for this recipe—they offer concentrated flavor and the perfect chewy texture, while fresh ones have too much moisture and might make your truffles too soft or soggy.
What’s the best way to chop pistachios and cranberries?
A sharp knife is your best friend here. For the pistachios, rough-chop them for more crunch, or use a food processor for finer pieces. With cranberries, aim for small bits so every bite is perfectly balanced.
Can I make Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles vegan?
Absolutely! Swap out the white chocolate chips and heavy cream for their favorite high-quality dairy-free counterparts. Just be sure your chocolate melts smoothly—it’s essential for creamy truffles.
How should I gift these truffles?
Arrange the truffles in decorative paper cups and tuck them into a pretty bakery box or tin. Wrap with ribbon, add a handwritten tag, and you’ve got a heartfelt homemade gift that looks as gorgeous as it tastes.
Could I dip the truffles in melted white chocolate?
Yes! For an extra-decadent (and professional-looking) finish, dip each chilled truffle in melted white chocolate before garnishing. It gives a beautiful glossy shell and a satisfyingly crisp bite.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about making Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles—whether for gifting or treating yourself. Tangy, nutty, creamy, and festive, they’re a must-try for the holiday season or any time you want to delight friends and family with a touch of homemade luxury. I can’t wait for you to taste just how easy and impressive these little gems can be!
Print
Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 20 truffles
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in the festive flavors of the season with these decadent Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles. Creamy white chocolate, tart cranberries, and crunchy pistachios come together in a delightful no-bake dessert perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Truffle Mixture:
- 12 oz white chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries (finely chopped)
- 1/3 cup shelled pistachios (finely chopped)
- Pinch of salt
For Rolling (Optional):
- Additional chopped pistachios and cranberries
Instructions
- Melt the White Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, combine white chocolate chips and heavy cream. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in vanilla extract, salt, chopped cranberries, and pistachios until well combined.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
- Form Truffles: Roll the chilled mixture into 1-inch balls. Optionally, roll in additional cranberries and pistachios.
- Chill and Serve: Place truffles on a tray, chill for 30 minutes, then serve. Store in the refrigerator.
Notes
- For a festive touch, roll truffles in crushed pistachios and cranberries before serving.
- Try dipping truffles in melted white chocolate for a smooth finish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 truffle
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
