Short Description
These Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Truffles are creamy, fruity, and indulgently coated in rich chocolate. Featuring tangy cream cheese, sweet dried cherries, and an optional graham cracker crunch, they’re a no-bake treat perfect for holidays, gifts, or anytime snacking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Decadent and creamy: A smooth cheesecake filling paired with chocolate coating.
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No baking required: Quick to prepare with simple ingredients.
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Burst of fruit flavor: Chopped dried cherries add a sweet, tart contrast.
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Perfect for gifting: Elegant and bite-sized—ideal for parties and holidays.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 cup cream cheese, softened
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½ cup powdered sugar
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½ teaspoon vanilla extract
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½ cup dried cherries, chopped
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¼ cup crushed graham crackers (optional)
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1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
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1 tablespoon coconut oil
directions
1. Prepare the Filling
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In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
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Fold in chopped dried cherries and crushed graham crackers (if using) until evenly combined.
2. Form the Truffles
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Scoop and roll the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) using your hands or a small cookie scoop.
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Place the formed truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes, or until firm.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Coating
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In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil.
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Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely melted and smooth.
4. Coat the Truffles
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Dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate, using a fork or dipping tool to fully coat.
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Allow excess chocolate to drip off, then return each truffle to the parchment-lined sheet.
5. Set and Serve
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Chill the coated truffles in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set.
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Serve chilled or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
Servings and timing
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Servings: 18–20 truffles
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Prep time: 20 minutes
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Chilling time: 60 minutes (total)
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Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Variations
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White chocolate coating: Swap semi-sweet chocolate with white chocolate for a different look and taste.
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Cherry-almond twist: Add ¼ tsp almond extract for a flavor enhancement.
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Nutty center: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for texture.
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Festive finish: Top each truffle with red sprinkles or a dried cherry half before the coating sets.
storage/reheating
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To store: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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To freeze: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
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Do not microwave: Truffles are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature—do not reheat.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?
No—fresh cherries contain too much moisture and will affect the texture of the filling. Use dried cherries for best results.
What if my filling is too soft to roll?
Chill the mixture for 15–20 minutes before rolling if it’s too soft to handle.
Can I use other dried fruits?
Yes—try dried cranberries, blueberries, or chopped dates for variation.
Is coconut oil necessary for the coating?
It helps thin the chocolate and adds shine. You can substitute with vegetable oil or omit for a thicker coating.
Can I use graham crackers inside and outside the truffles?
Yes—roll finished truffles in extra crushed graham crackers before the chocolate sets for added crunch.
How do I get a smooth chocolate coating?
Dip quickly in melted chocolate and tap off the excess gently. Use a fork or dipping tool for best results.
Are these freezer-friendly?
Yes—freeze in a single layer and transfer to a sealed container. Thaw in fridge before serving.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes—prepare and store up to 2 days in advance for best texture and flavor.
How long can these stay at room temperature?
Up to 2 hours. Beyond that, keep refrigerated due to the cream cheese base.
Can I add liqueur for a grown-up version?
Yes—add 1 tbsp cherry liqueur or amaretto to the filling. Reduce sugar slightly to balance.
Conclusion
These Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Truffles are a rich and indulgent treat, combining smooth cream cheese, tangy cherries, and a glossy chocolate shell. Easy to make and impossible to resist, they’re the perfect addition to any dessert table or gift box. Enjoy the elegance and flavor of cheesecake in every bite-sized piece!
Print
Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Truffles
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 18–24 truffles
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Treat yourself to the rich, indulgent flavor of Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Truffles! These no-bake delights combine tangy cream cheese, sweet cherries, and a luscious chocolate coating for the perfect bite-sized dessert. Great for holidays, gifting, or an anytime sweet fix.
Ingredients
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1 cup cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup powdered sugar
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1/2 tsp vanilla extract
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1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
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1/4 cup crushed graham crackers (optional)
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1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
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1 tbsp coconut oil
Instructions
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Prepare filling: In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in chopped cherries and graham crackers if using.
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Form truffles: Scoop and roll mixture into small balls (about 1-inch in size). Place on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 30 minutes to firm up.
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Prepare coating: Melt chocolate chips and coconut oil together in the microwave or over a double boiler, stirring until smooth.
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Coat truffles: Dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate using a fork. Tap off excess and return to tray.
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Set and serve: Chill in the fridge until chocolate is set, about 15–20 minutes. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Notes
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Add a sprinkle of sea salt or drizzle with white chocolate for extra flair.
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Truffles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or frozen for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American