Irresistible Christmas Cookie Dough Truffles Recipe

The holidays are all about sweet indulgence, and let me tell you—these Christmas Cookie Dough Truffles are pure magic. Imagine biting into a rich, creamy center that tastes just like your favorite cookie dough, only better, and it’s surrounded by a luscious chocolate coating. These little bites of joy are ridiculously easy to make, no baking required, and they’re guaranteed to be the star of your holiday dessert spread.

I first made these truffles a few years ago when I wanted a festive treat that didn’t require the oven (because let’s face it, the oven is always in high demand during the holidays). Since then, they’ve become a tradition. Whether you’re making them for a party, gifting them to friends, or sneaking one with your coffee, these truffles are everything you want in a holiday treat—fun, delicious, and just a little bit fancy.

This recipe is great for all skill levels, so even if you’re not a pro in the kitchen, you’ll nail it. Plus, they’re completely customizable, which means you can make them as festive or simple as you like. Let’s dive in and create the ultimate holiday indulgence!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: No baking required, and the steps are straightforward enough for beginners.
• Festive and fun: Perfect for holiday parties, gifting, or just enjoying with family.
• Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like crushed candy canes, sprinkles, or mini chocolate chips.
• Kid-approved: Kids love helping to roll the dough and decorate the truffles!
• Unbelievably delicious: Creamy cookie dough inside, covered in rich chocolate—it’s the ultimate holiday treat.

What sets these Christmas Cookie Dough Truffles apart is their versatility. You can easily swap out the toppings or mix-ins to suit your tastes or match the theme of your gathering. Plus, they’re great for making ahead—you can store them in the fridge or freezer and they’ll still taste amazing days later. Trust me, once you make these, you’ll never need another holiday dessert recipe again!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe keeps things simple with ingredients you can easily find in your pantry or local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Unsalted butter, softened: Gives the cookie dough its creamy texture.
• Brown sugar: Adds that classic cookie dough flavor.
• Granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Vanilla extract: A must for that authentic cookie dough taste.
• All-purpose flour: Heat-treated to make it safe to eat raw.
• Mini chocolate chips: The star of the show! Go for semi-sweet or milk chocolate, depending on your preference.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
• Chocolate chips or candy melts: For the outer coating—choose white, dark, or milk chocolate.
• Holiday sprinkles: Optional, but highly recommended for that festive touch.

You can swap in gluten-free flour to make this recipe gluten-free. And if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate chips.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls: One large for the dough and one small for the chocolate coating.
• Hand or stand mixer: Makes creaming the butter and sugar a breeze.
• Baking sheet: For chilling the truffles.
• Parchment paper: Keeps the truffles from sticking to the baking sheet.
• Microwave-safe bowl: For melting the chocolate coating.
• Fork or dipping tool: For coating the truffles in chocolate.

If you don’t have a mixer, a sturdy spoon or whisk will work—it just might take a little extra elbow grease. And if you don’t have parchment paper, wax paper or a silicone baking mat will do the trick!

Preparation Method

1. Heat-treat the flour: Spread the flour on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes. Let it cool completely before using. This step is essential to make the flour safe for consumption.
2. Make the cookie dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using a mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
3. Add the dry ingredients: Gradually add the cooled flour to the wet mixture. Mix until combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. Stir in the mix-ins: Fold in the mini chocolate chips or any other mix-ins you’re using, such as crushed candy canes or chopped nuts.
5. Form the truffles: Scoop out small portions of dough using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop. Roll each portion into a ball and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
6. Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips or candy melts in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
7. Dip the truffles: Using a fork or dipping tool, coat each chilled cookie dough ball in melted chocolate. Tap off any excess and place back on the parchment-lined sheet.
8. Decorate: Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle the truffles with holiday sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or a drizzle of white chocolate for extra flair.
9. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the truffles for at least another 15 minutes to set the chocolate coating. Once set, they’re ready to enjoy!

Pro tip: If the cookie dough feels too soft to roll, pop it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before forming the balls.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Don’t skip heat-treating the flour: It’s a quick step that ensures your cookie dough is safe to eat.
• Chill the dough: Chilling makes the dough easier to roll and helps the truffles hold their shape.
• Use quality chocolate: Good chocolate makes all the difference in flavor and texture. Choose a brand you love for the coating.
• Decorate quickly: Add sprinkles or toppings right after dipping while the chocolate is still wet.
• Work in batches: If the chocolate starts to harden while dipping, reheat it in the microwave briefly.

I’ve had a few mishaps over the years—like forgetting to chill the dough and ending up with sticky blobs—but these tips will help you avoid those pitfalls and make perfect truffles every time!

Variations & Adaptations

• Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour.
• Dairy-free: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate chips.
• Seasonal twist: Add crushed candy canes or cinnamon for a festive flavor.
• Nutty version: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture.
• Different coatings: Try rolling the truffles in cocoa powder or powdered sugar instead of dipping in chocolate.

Last Christmas, I added a peppermint extract to the dough and coated them in white chocolate—it was a huge hit!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these Christmas Cookie Dough Truffles chilled or at room temperature. Arrange them on a festive platter or pack them in holiday-themed boxes for gifting. Pair them with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee for the ultimate holiday treat.

To store, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you’re making them ahead, freeze the truffles for up to 3 months. Let them thaw in the fridge before serving. The flavors actually deepen after a day or two, making them even better!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

These truffles are definitely a treat, but they’re portion-controlled, which makes them perfect for satisfying sweet cravings without going overboard. Each truffle is approximately 120 calories depending on the size and mix-ins you use.

Key ingredients like chocolate and butter add richness, while the cookie dough base provides that nostalgic comfort we all love. If you’re using dark chocolate for the coating, you’ll sneak in a bit of antioxidants too!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a holiday dessert that’s easy, fun, and guaranteed to impress, these Christmas Cookie Dough Truffles are it. They’re versatile, delicious, and perfect for spreading holiday cheer. Plus, they’re so simple to make that you might just start a new family tradition.

Why not grab your ingredients and give this recipe a try? I’d love to hear how you customize your truffles—so leave a comment below or tag me on social media with your creations. Wishing you a sweet and joyful holiday season!

FAQs

Can I use regular flour without heat-treating it?

No, it’s important to heat-treat the flour to make it safe for consumption. This step ensures no harmful bacteria remain.

What can I use instead of chocolate chips for the coating?

You can use candy melts, white chocolate, or even roll the truffles in cocoa powder or powdered sugar.

How far in advance can I make these truffles?

You can make them up to a week ahead and store them in the refrigerator, or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I add alcohol to this recipe?

Yes! A splash of rum or bourbon in the dough can add a grown-up twist to these truffles. Just keep it subtle.

Are these safe for kids to eat?

Absolutely, as long as you heat-treat the flour and don’t add alcohol. They’re a hit with kids every time!

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