If you’re craving a treat that’s equal parts sweet, zesty, and irresistibly creamy, these Lemon Truffles are about to become your new favorite. Imagine biting into a silky-smooth center laced with real lemon zest and juice, all wrapped in a snowy coating of powdered sugar. This bite-sized dessert is the perfect way to brighten up any day, whether you’re sharing with friends or sneaking one (or three) just for yourself. Trust me: once you’ve made a batch, these Lemon Truffles will be your go-to for every celebration, gift box, or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts about Lemon Truffles is how few ingredients you actually need. Each one plays a starring role, from the creamy white chocolate to the punchy lemon zest, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor and a luxurious texture.
- White chocolate chips: The rich, creamy base that melts into a silky truffle filling.
- Heavy cream: Adds extra smoothness and helps the chocolate achieve that dreamy texture.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Gives the truffles a melt-in-your-mouth quality and a subtle richness.
- Lemon zest: Packs in pure citrusy aroma and flavor — don’t skip it!
- Fresh lemon juice: Provides that bright, tart kick that sets these truffles apart.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with a hint of warmth and depth.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and sharpens all the flavors.
- Powdered sugar (for rolling): Creates a beautiful finish and a touch of extra sweetness with each bite.
How to Make Lemon Truffles
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate
Start by placing your white chocolate chips in a heat-safe bowl. This will be the foundation of your Lemon Truffles, so make sure to use good-quality chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
Step 2: Warm the Cream and Butter
In a small saucepan, gently heat the heavy cream and softened butter over medium heat. You want the mixture just to start simmering, not boiling. This gentle heat will help everything blend smoothly later on.
Step 3: Combine and Melt
Pour the hot cream and butter mixture directly over the white chocolate chips. Let it sit undisturbed for about 2 minutes. The warmth will melt the chocolate, making it easier to stir everything into a glossy, lump-free mixture.
Step 4: Add the Lemon Goodness
Now it’s time to bring in the bright, sunshiny flavor! Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is fully combined and the mixture looks smooth and luscious.
Step 5: Chill Until Firm
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours, or until it’s firm enough to scoop. This step is crucial for shaping your Lemon Truffles later, so don’t rush it!
Step 6: Shape and Coat
Once the mixture is chilled and set, use a small cookie scoop or spoon to portion out 1-inch balls. Roll each ball between your palms to smooth them out, then roll in powdered sugar until completely coated. If the mixture starts to get too soft as you work, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes before continuing.
How to Serve Lemon Truffles
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, try sprinkling a little extra lemon zest over your Lemon Truffles, or roll them in finely crushed graham crackers or shredded coconut for a gourmet twist. Each garnish brings its own flair, making your truffles look as good as they taste.
Side Dishes
Pair these truffles with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. They also shine alongside fresh berries or a light fruit salad, balancing out the richness with more brightness and color.
Creative Ways to Present
Lemon Truffles make a stunning addition to dessert platters, gift boxes, or party favors. Try stacking them in pastel cupcake liners, arranging them in a pretty jar, or skewering them on sticks for a playful, pop-able presentation at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Lemon Truffles tasting fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to a week, making them perfect for prepping ahead of time and enjoying whenever you need a sweet bite.
Freezing
If you want to make a big batch, Lemon Truffles freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to a month, ready to thaw in the fridge whenever you have a craving.
Reheating
No need to reheat these truffles — just let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving if they’ve been chilled or frozen. This softens them slightly and brings out their creamy texture and vibrant lemon flavor.
FAQs
Can I use milk or dark chocolate instead of white chocolate?
For classic Lemon Truffles, white chocolate is the best choice, as it allows the lemon flavor to really shine. Milk or dark chocolate will overpower the citrus notes, so I recommend sticking with white chocolate for this recipe.
What’s the best way to zest a lemon?
Use a microplane or fine grater to zest only the bright yellow outer layer of the lemon, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. Fresh zest adds tons of aroma and flavor to your Lemon Truffles.
My truffle mixture is too soft to roll. What should I do?
If the mixture is too soft, simply pop it back in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes. The added chill will make it much easier to shape your truffles without sticking.
Can I make Lemon Truffles dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the heavy cream and butter for coconut cream and a plant-based butter substitute. Choose dairy-free white chocolate chips, and you’ll have a delicious vegan version of Lemon Truffles.
How do I prevent the powdered sugar from melting into the truffles?
Roll the Lemon Truffles in powdered sugar just before serving for the prettiest finish. If you roll them ahead of time, you can always give them another quick toss in sugar if needed.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about the combination of creamy white chocolate and zesty lemon in these Lemon Truffles. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, I hope you find them as delightful and fun to make as I do. Give them a try, share them with loved ones, and let that bright citrus flavor put a little sunshine in your day!
Print
Lemon Truffles Recipe
- 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
Delicious and tangy lemon truffles made with creamy white chocolate, fresh lemon juice, and zest. These no-bake, bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion and easy to prepare. Rolled in powdered sugar for a sweet finish, they offer a refreshing citrus twist to classic truffles.
Ingredients
Truffle Mixture
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Coating
- ½ cup powdered sugar for rolling
Instructions
- Prepare the Chocolate Mixture: Place the white chocolate chips in a heat-safe bowl. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and softened butter over medium heat until just simmering.
- Combine and Melt: Pour the hot cream and butter mixture over the white chocolate chips and let sit for 2 minutes to soften the chocolate. Stir gently until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours, or until it becomes firm enough to scoop and shape.
- Form the Truffles: Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, scoop the mixture into approximately 1-inch balls. If the mixture is too soft to handle, place it back in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
- Coat the Truffles: Roll each ball in powdered sugar until evenly coated.
- Store and Serve: Place the coated truffles in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Enjoy chilled for the best texture.
Notes
- For extra flavor and texture, roll the truffles in finely crushed graham crackers or shredded coconut instead of powdered sugar.
- If the mixture becomes too soft while rolling, refrigerate it again for 15 minutes to firm up before continuing.
- Store truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent melting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 truffle
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 15 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
