If you’re a fan of citrusy desserts, these Lemon Truffles are about to be your new favorite treat! Made with creamy white chocolate, fresh lemon zest, and a hint of vanilla, each bite delivers a burst of refreshing lemon flavor wrapped in a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
I first made these truffles as a fun summer treat, and they quickly became a family favorite! They’re incredibly easy to make and look like little bites of sunshine, perfect for parties, gifts, or just for keeping in the fridge as a sweet pick-me-up.
Why You’ll Love These Lemon Truffles
These Lemon Truffles are an irresistible combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors. Here’s why you’ll love them:
First, they’re incredibly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients. There’s no baking involved – just a little melting, mixing, and rolling. They’re ready to chill in minutes, making them a perfect quick treat.
The flavor is bright and refreshing. The tanginess of fresh lemon pairs beautifully with the sweetness of white chocolate, creating a balanced, citrusy flavor that’s not overly sweet.
They’re also stunning to serve. Rolled in powdered sugar, they look like elegant little confections, perfect for a party tray or as edible gifts for friends and family.
Plus, these truffles are a make-ahead dream. They store well in the refrigerator, so you can prepare them days in advance and still enjoy their fresh flavor.
Ingredients Notes
With just a few key ingredients, these Lemon Truffles come together easily while delivering big flavor. Here’s what you’ll need.
- White Chocolate – The base of these truffles is white chocolate, which gives them a creamy, sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with lemon. Choose a good-quality white chocolate for the best taste and texture.
- Heavy Cream – The heavy cream helps melt the chocolate into a smooth, truffle-like consistency. It also makes the truffles rich and velvety.
- Lemon Zest and Lemon Juice – Fresh lemon zest and juice provide that unmistakable burst of lemon flavor. The zest, in particular, brings out the oils from the lemon, making each truffle fragrant and flavorful.
- Butter – A little butter adds richness and helps keep the truffles smooth and creamy.
- Vanilla Extract – Just a hint of vanilla enhances the sweetness of the white chocolate and balances the lemon.
- Powdered Sugar – Rolling the truffles in powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and gives them a lovely, snowy appearance.
With these simple ingredients, you’ll have everything you need to make a batch of bright, zesty lemon truffles.
How To Make These Lemon Truffles
Making these Lemon Truffles is as easy as it gets. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating these creamy, citrusy bites.
- Melt the White Chocolate and Cream – In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped white chocolate, heavy cream, and butter. Melt in the microwave in 20-second increments, stirring between each until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Lemon and Vanilla – Once the chocolate mixture is melted, stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed. The mixture should be thick but smooth.
- Chill the Mixture – Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours, or until the mixture is firm enough to roll. The chilling time allows the chocolate to set, making it easier to shape into truffles.
- Roll into Balls – Once the mixture is firm, use a small cookie scoop or spoon to portion out the truffles. Roll each portion between your hands to form a smooth ball. Place the rolled truffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Coat in Powdered Sugar – Roll each truffle in powdered sugar until evenly coated. For an extra-fancy touch, you can roll them in finely crushed graham crackers or shredded coconut instead.
These truffles take about 20 minutes of active time, plus chilling, and they’re ready to enjoy! Store them in the fridge for a cool, refreshing treat anytime.
Storage Options
These Lemon Truffles store beautifully, making them a great make-ahead dessert. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Refrigerate – Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They’ll stay firm and keep their bright lemon flavor.
- Freeze – For longer storage, freeze the truffles in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Room Temperature – If you’re serving them at a party, they can be kept at room temperature for a few hours. Just be mindful not to place them in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as the white chocolate can soften.
Variations and Substitutions
These Lemon Truffles are wonderfully versatile, so feel free to get creative. Here are some fun variations:
- Coconut Lemon Truffles – Roll the truffles in shredded coconut instead of powdered sugar for a tropical twist. The coconut complements the lemon flavor beautifully.
- Graham Cracker Coating – Roll the truffles in finely crushed graham crackers for a texture similar to lemon pie.
- Lime or Orange Truffles – Swap out the lemon zest and juice for lime or orange to create a different citrus flavor. You can also mix lemon and lime for a bright, zesty blend.
- White Chocolate Coating – For a more indulgent truffle, dip each ball in melted white chocolate and let it set before serving. This adds a smooth shell that makes them even more elegant.
- Dusting of Confectioners' Sugar with Zest – Mix a bit of lemon zest into the powdered sugar coating for an extra pop of citrus flavor.
No matter how you make them, these truffles are sure to be a hit. They’re a fun, customizable dessert that adds a bright touch to any occasion.
Enjoy these delightful Lemon Truffles for any occasion – from parties to a little treat for yourself. Each bite is like a burst of sunshine!
PrintLemon Truffles Recipe
These lemon truffles are a refreshing, bite-sized treat with creamy white chocolate and a burst of lemon flavor. Quick to make and irresistibly smooth, these zesty lemon truffles are perfect for spring gatherings, holiday platters, or any occasion when you crave a sweet citrus delight!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 18 truffles
- Category: Dessert, Candy
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Truffle Base: 1 cup white chocolate chips, ¼ cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoon unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- Coating: ½ cup powdered sugar (or extra white chocolate for dipping)
Instructions
- Make the Truffle Mixture: In a heatproof bowl, combine white chocolate chips, heavy cream, and butter. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Add Lemon Flavor: Stir in lemon juice and zest, mixing until fully incorporated. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours or until firm.
- Shape Truffles: Scoop small portions and roll into 1-inch balls.
- Coat: Roll each truffle in powdered sugar for a light coating, or dip in melted white chocolate for a thicker shell.
- Chill: Refrigerate for another 30 minutes to set, then serve.
Notes
- Use freshly grated lemon zest for the best flavor.
- Store truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 truffle
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 10mg
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