Sugar Cookie Truffles Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple yet decadent treat that combines two of my favorite things—sugar cookies and truffles—then you are in for a real treat (pun totally intended). These sugar cookie truffles are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re craving something sweet for yourself, preparing a gift for someone special, or making a batch for a party. They’re bite-sized, indulgent, and oh-so-satisfying.

What makes these truffles so special is how effortlessly they come together, with just a handful of ingredients. Seriously, if you’ve got 15 minutes to spare, you’re only a few steps away from a batch of sweet, creamy goodness. And trust me, these truffles will disappear just as quickly as you can make them! I first discovered this recipe when I was looking for a no-bake treat to whip up for a holiday party. I wanted something festive, easy to prepare, and (let’s be honest) a total crowd-pleaser. After a few tries, this recipe emerged as the winner.

Let me share why these little sugar cookie truffles are my go-to for pretty much any sweet occasion.

this RECIPE

The origin story (or how I stumbled upon perfection)

I can still remember the first time I tried sugar cookie truffles. A friend had made them for a party, and they were gone before I had the chance to take more than one bite. I’m not exaggerating when I say that I had to ask her for the recipe on the spot! It was like biting into a fluffy, sugar cookie cloud—yet, somehow, the truffles were smooth, rich, and a little bit decadent. The combination of crunchy cookie crumbs and creamy filling was mind-blowing.

Since then, I’ve made these truffles countless times. They’ve become a signature treat at holiday gatherings, and I’ve even made them for birthdays, last-minute gifts, and just because. The great thing about this recipe is that it’s easily adaptable to whatever you have on hand and whatever occasion you’re baking for.

Let’s talk ingredients: the good, the better, and the “oops I’m out of that”

To make sugar cookie truffles, you only need a handful of basic ingredients, which makes this recipe so simple. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Sugar cookies: The star of the show! I personally love using Pepperidge Farm’s 5-ounce bag of sugar cookies. They’re perfectly crisp and have just the right amount of sweetness. But if you don’t have those on hand, any store-bought sugar cookies will work, or you could even use homemade sugar cookies (just be sure to let them cool before blending). The cookies provide the structure and texture for the truffle, so don’t skip this step.
• Cream cheese: Cream cheese is the secret ingredient that brings everything together. It adds a rich, smooth, and slightly tangy flavor that balances out the sweetness of the cookies. I usually use 2-3 ounces of softened cream cheese, depending on how creamy I want the truffle filling to be. You can also use Neufchatel cheese for a lighter version, or even try dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan option.
• Vanilla extract: This little splash of vanilla gives the truffles a warm, comforting flavor that complements the cookies. I always recommend using pure vanilla extract for the best taste, but imitation vanilla works in a pinch.
• Chocolate melting wafers: To coat these little truffles, I use chocolate melting wafers. They melt beautifully and harden perfectly, creating that signature shiny, smooth finish. You could also use chocolate chips, but I find that melting wafers yield a smoother coating. If you want a different look, you can experiment with white chocolate or even colored chocolate coatings!
• Optional: sprinkles: You can’t go wrong with sprinkles—especially when you’re making these for a special occasion. They add a pop of color and a bit of fun. You can use whatever sprinkles you like, from classic rainbow to themed ones (think Christmas or birthday sprinkles).

Kitchen gear: What you need (and what you can totally skip)

For this recipe, you don’t need a lot of fancy kitchen gadgets. Here’s a quick rundown of the essential tools:

• Blender or food processor: You’ll need this to turn your cookies into fine crumbs. I’ve used both a blender and a food processor, and both work just fine. If you don’t have either, you can always crush the cookies in a zip-top bag using a rolling pin (just be sure to crush them evenly).
• Microwave-safe bowl: For melting your chocolate. It’s super easy and fast, but make sure you’re using a microwave-safe bowl to avoid any mishaps.
• Fork and toothpick: These are key for dipping your truffles in the melted chocolate without making a mess. The fork helps you lower the truffle into the chocolate, and the toothpick is perfect for helping you slide it off the fork once it’s dipped.
• Baking sheet and parchment paper: You’ll need a surface to set your truffles on as they cool and firm up. Parchment paper is a game-changer here, ensuring nothing sticks.

Step-by-step: My foolproof method (and a few hard-learned lessons)

Making these sugar cookie truffles is a breeze! Here’s how I like to do it:

1. Crush the cookies: Place the sugar cookies in a blender or food processor, and pulse until they’re fine crumbs. This step is so satisfying—I love watching the cookies break down into a powdery texture. Don’t rush it! The finer the crumbs, the smoother the truffles will turn out.
2. Mix with cream cheese and vanilla: Add your softened cream cheese and vanilla extract to the cookie crumbs. Pulse again until everything is fully combined. If the dough feels too firm, add an extra ounce of cream cheese to soften it up a bit. (I’ve learned this the hard way—sometimes the dough can be a bit too dry!)
3. Shape into balls: Now comes the fun part! Use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to scoop out portions of dough and roll them into little balls. It’s best to do this on a parchment-lined baking sheet, which will keep everything neat and tidy. Once all the balls are shaped, pop the sheet in the freezer for about 20 minutes to firm them up.
4. Melt the chocolate: Microwave the chocolate melting wafers in a bowl for 1 minute. Stir, then microwave for an additional 15-30 seconds if necessary until it’s smooth. Be careful not to overheat it, as chocolate can seize up if it gets too hot.
5. Dip the truffles: This is where you’ll want to channel your inner chocolatier. Use a fork to dip each truffle into the melted chocolate, then tap the fork on the edge of the bowl to remove excess chocolate. Carefully place the truffle back on the lined baking sheet. If you’ve got sprinkles, this is the moment to add them!
6. Chill and enjoy: Once all the truffles are dipped and decorated, place them in the refrigerator to set for about 30 minutes. After that, you’re ready to serve!

Variations to try: Switching it up

While this recipe is pretty perfect as-is, I’m always up for mixing things up! Here are a few variations I’ve tried over the years:

• Chocolate variations: I’ve swapped the regular chocolate coating for white chocolate, and it was delicious! The smooth, sweet white chocolate pairs beautifully with the sugar cookie center. I’ve also tried dark chocolate, which adds a rich, slightly bitter flavor that complements the sweetness of the cookies.
• Add-ins: You could toss in some mini chocolate chips or even crushed candy canes to the dough for an extra pop of flavor. I once added a bit of orange zest to the cream cheese mixture, and it gave the truffles a refreshing citrus twist.
• Vegan version: For a vegan version, use dairy-free cream cheese and swap the chocolate wafers for a vegan-friendly option. I’ve done this for a few friends with dietary restrictions, and they loved them just as much!

Serving ideas: Make them shine!

These sugar cookie truffles are great on their own, but they also make a fun addition to any dessert platter. I like to arrange them in little clusters on a platter, with a few sprinkles for color. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even add some edible glitter or drizzle extra melted chocolate over the top for a luxe touch.

Drink pairings: A match made in heaven

When it comes to drinks, these truffles pair wonderfully with a hot beverage. I’d suggest a nice cup of coffee or a frothy cappuccino to balance the sweetness. If you’re serving these for a holiday gathering, a spiced hot chocolate or even a glass of dessert wine (like a sweet Riesling) would be perfect.

Storage and reheating tips

I like to keep these sugar cookie truffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They’re easy to grab for a quick treat, and they stay fresh and creamy. I wouldn’t recommend freezing them, as the chocolate coating can sometimes crack when thawing.

Adjusting for different servings

This recipe is pretty flexible. If you need more or fewer truffles, it’s easy to double or halve the ingredients. Just keep in mind that the freezer time may vary slightly depending on the size of your truffle balls.

Potential issues: Don’t worry, I’ve got you

One thing I’ve learned the hard way is not to rush the chilling step. It’s tempting, but skipping the 20-minute freeze can result in the chocolate melting too much when you dip. Trust me, it’s worth the wait.

Conclusion: Give these sugar cookie truffles a try!

I really hope you give these sugar cookie truffles a try—once you do, they’ll probably become a new favorite. The best part? You can totally make them your own by swapping out ingredients or adding fun toppings. They’re a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth, and they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who loves sugar cookies. Enjoy!

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade sugar cookies instead of store-bought?
Yes! Homemade sugar cookies work just fine. Just let them cool completely before processing them into crumbs.

2. Can I use cream cheese substitutes?
Absolutely! You can use Neufchatel cheese for a lighter version or dairy-free cream cheese if you’re vegan.

3. What if my chocolate doesn’t melt smoothly?
If your chocolate doesn’t melt properly, try microwaving it in 10-second bursts and stirring after each interval.

4. Can I add other flavors to the dough?
Definitely! I’ve added things like cinnamon, orange zest, and even almond extract to mix up the flavor profile.

5. How long can I keep these in the fridge?
These truffles will last about 5-7 days in an airtight container in the fridge.

Print