Tiramisu Truffles

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Rich, creamy, and dusted with a generous coat of cocoa powder—Tiramisu Truffles are the ultimate bite-sized indulgence. These no-bake delights capture all the classic flavors of the beloved Italian dessert in a convenient, poppable form. Each truffle features a luscious mascarpone and cream cheese center wrapped in a velvety layer of cocoa, echoing the traditional espresso and chocolate notes of tiramisu without the need for baking or layered assembly.

Perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re craving a quick and luxurious treat, these truffles bring together bold coffee tones and smooth, tangy creaminess in each bite. Whether served at a dinner party or gifted in a charming box, Tiramisu Truffles are guaranteed to steal the spotlight.

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Why You’ll Love This Tiramisu Truffles Recipe

• No baking required, making it a breeze even for beginners.
• Tastes just like classic tiramisu but with a fun, truffle twist.
• Elegant enough for entertaining, easy enough for weeknight cravings.
• Stores well in the fridge for make-ahead convenience.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make perfect Tiramisu Truffles, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

• Mixing bowls – Crucial for combining the mascarpone, cream cheese, and sugar smoothly.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer – Ensures the filling becomes airy and well blended, which is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon – Helps to shape uniform truffles, which ensures even chilling and presentation.
• Baking tray lined with parchment paper – Great for setting and chilling the shaped truffles without sticking.
• Fine mesh sieve – To dust the truffles with cocoa powder evenly and attractively.

Each tool plays an important role in helping you create a consistent texture, beautiful shape, and clean finish.

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Preparation Tips

Use cold ingredients, especially the mascarpone and cream cheese, to maintain firmness during shaping. Make sure the cream cheese is softened just enough to blend but not overly warm, or the filling may become too loose. When forming the truffles, lightly wet your hands or use gloves to prevent sticking. After shaping, chill the truffles until firm before rolling in cocoa powder—this step helps the powder adhere evenly without soaking into the surface. If you want an extra burst of coffee flavor, add a splash of espresso or coffee liqueur to the mixture, but do so sparingly to avoid loosening the consistency.

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Ingredients for This Tiramisu Truffles Recipe

• 8 oz (225g) mascarpone cheese, chilled
• 6 oz (170g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp instant espresso powder (or strong coffee, reduced)
• 1/2 cup ladyfinger crumbs (or graham cracker crumbs as a substitute)
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate shavings or finely chopped chocolate (optional for texture)
• Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

Optional add-ins:

• 1 tbsp coffee liqueur (like Kahlua or Tia Maria)
• 1/2 tsp rum extract (for a boozy tiramisu flavor without alcohol)

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Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone and softened cream cheese. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the mixture until smooth and fluffy. This is the core of your truffle—light, creamy, and rich.

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Step 2: Add Flavor and Sweetness

Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and instant espresso powder. Beat again until fully incorporated. The mixture should be smooth with a soft but scoopable texture. For added depth, now is the time to mix in a splash of coffee liqueur or rum extract if desired.

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Step 3: Fold in the Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in the ladyfinger crumbs using a spatula. These crumbs help stabilize the mixture and add that classic tiramisu flavor. If you want a bit of texture or extra chocolate richness, fold in some finely chopped dark chocolate as well.

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Step 4: Chill the Mixture

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the filling for at least 1 hour, or until it’s firm enough to scoop and shape. This chilling time is essential for easy handling and a smooth truffle texture.

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Step 5: Shape the Truffles

Once the filling is firm, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the mixture. Roll each portion into a smooth ball using your palms. Work quickly to prevent the warmth of your hands from softening the filling.

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Step 6: Dust with Cocoa Powder

Place each shaped truffle onto a parchment-lined tray. Using a fine mesh sieve, dust the tops generously with unsweetened cocoa powder. For an extra decorative touch, you can double coat the truffles after a second chill.

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Step 7: Final Chill Before Serving

Return the cocoa-dusted truffles to the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This final chill allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up for the perfect bite.

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Notes

For the most authentic tiramisu flavor, use Italian mascarpone and high-quality cocoa powder. If you can’t find ladyfingers, graham crackers make a decent substitute, though they offer a slightly different texture. Letting the truffles chill thoroughly is crucial for their consistency, so don’t rush this part. These truffles are also an excellent make-ahead dessert for parties—prepare them the day before and let them sit overnight for even better flavor development.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using warm mascarpone or cream cheese: Always keep your mascarpone chilled and cream cheese just softened. If they get too warm, the mixture can become too soft to shape.
• Overmixing the filling: Mixing too much can cause the mascarpone to break down and become watery.
• Skipping the chill time: Chilling is non-negotiable—insufficient chilling leads to sticky, unmanageable truffles.
• Adding too much liquid flavoring: A little espresso or liqueur goes a long way. Too much can destabilize the mixture.
• Not using a fine sieve for cocoa: Uneven dusting with clumps of cocoa can ruin the texture and presentation.

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Storage Instructions

Store Tiramisu Truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Before serving, let frozen truffles thaw in the fridge for a few hours. Avoid leaving them out at room temperature too long as the mascarpone can soften quickly.

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Estimated Nutrition (per truffle, based on a 20-truffle yield)

• Calories: 105 kcal
• Total Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 45mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 6g
• Sugar: 4g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Protein: 2g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these truffles ahead of time?

Yes, they’re perfect for preparing 1–2 days ahead. Just keep them chilled until serving.

Do these taste like real tiramisu?

Absolutely! The mascarpone, espresso, and cocoa recreate the classic flavor in each bite.

What if I don’t have mascarpone?

You can substitute full-fat cream cheese, but the texture and flavor will be slightly different.

Can I make these truffles gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free ladyfinger substitutes or gluten-free graham crackers.

Is it safe to keep them at room temperature during a party?

It’s best to keep them chilled. They can sit out for about 1 hour but should be returned to the fridge after.

Can I freeze these truffles?

Yes, freeze them in a single layer first, then store in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

What can I use instead of cocoa powder for dusting?

Try using finely grated dark chocolate or a mix of cocoa and powdered sugar.

Can I add a chocolate coating?

Definitely! You can dip them in melted dark chocolate before chilling for an extra rich version.

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Conclusion

Tiramisu Truffles take everything you love about the iconic Italian dessert and transform it into elegant, poppable treats. They’re easy to make, stunning to present, and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re entertaining, gifting, or treating yourself, this recipe is a surefire way to impress. Once you try them, they’re bound to become a staple in your dessert rotation.

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