Rich, creamy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, these Buttercream Truffles are a perfect treat for any occasion. With a luscious buttercream center coated in decadent dark chocolate and topped with festive sprinkles, they’re as beautiful as they are indulgent. This no-bake recipe is easy to follow and ideal for gifting or serving at parties.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and quick to make with no baking required.
- Customizable toppings for any holiday or celebration.
- A perfect balance of creamy filling and rich chocolate.
- Great for gift boxes, dessert platters, or a quick indulgence.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 16 ounces Ghirardelli dark chocolate melting wafers, melted
- Sprinkles for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Buttercream Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until combined. Add milk and beat for an additional 2–3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm. - Shape the Truffles
Scoop out 1-tablespoon portions of the chilled buttercream mixture and place them onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for about 30 minutes or until firm. Once firm, remove from the freezer and gently shape each scoop into a smooth ball using your fingertips. - Melt the Chocolate
Follow the package directions to melt the Ghirardelli dark chocolate wafers. A microwave or double boiler works well for this. Stir the chocolate until smooth and silky. - Coat the Truffles
Using a toothpick or fork, dip each buttercream ball into the melted chocolate. Tap gently on the side of the bowl to remove excess chocolate. Place the coated truffle back onto the parchment paper and immediately garnish with sprinkles. Repeat with all the truffles. - Set and Serve
Allow the chocolate to set completely at room temperature or refrigerate briefly for quicker results. Serve or package for gifting.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Hand or stand mixer
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
- Toothpicks or a fork
- Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve these truffles at room temperature for the best texture.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- For longer storage, freeze truffles in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Variations
- Use white or milk chocolate wafers instead of dark chocolate for a different flavor profile.
- Add a drop of peppermint, almond, or orange extract to the buttercream for a flavored twist.
- Roll the truffles in crushed nuts, coconut, or cocoa powder instead of using sprinkles.
- Decorate with edible glitter or colored sugar for a festive touch.
Helpful Notes and Tips
- Ensure the butter is softened to make mixing easier and achieve a smooth buttercream texture.
- Chill the buttercream balls before dipping to prevent them from melting in the warm chocolate.
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and smooth coating.
- Work in small batches when dipping to keep the truffles firm and easy to handle.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of melting wafers?
Yes, but you’ll need to temper the chocolate or add a small amount of coconut oil to keep the coating smooth and shiny.
2. Can I make the truffles ahead of time?
Absolutely! They store well in the fridge or freezer, making them perfect for early prep.
3. How do I fix buttercream that’s too soft to shape?
If the buttercream is too soft, refrigerate it for an additional 30 minutes or until firm enough to scoop and shape.
4. Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, substitute vegan butter, dairy-free milk, and dairy-free chocolate for a delicious alternative.
5. What’s the best way to package these for gifting?
Use decorative mini cupcake liners to hold each truffle, then place them in a gift box or tin for a professional presentation.
These Buttercream Truffles are sure to impress with their creamy centers, rich chocolate coating, and customizable decorations. Perfect for holidays, parties, or simply indulging at home—this recipe is a winner every time!