Turtle Cheesecake Truffles
Turtle Cheesecake Truffles are the perfect bite-sized indulgence that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the delightful flavors of turtle candy. These truffles are a fun twist on a classic dessert, making them an ideal treat for any occasion, from parties to quiet nights at home. With a combination of cream cheese, graham cracker crumbs, and decadent chocolate, these truffles are sure to impress.
Why It Deserves a Spot
If you’re looking for a dessert that is both easy to make and utterly delicious, Turtle Cheesecake Truffles should be high on your list. They offer the perfect balance of flavors: the smooth and creamy cheesecake filling, the crunch of graham crackers and pecans, and the rich taste of chocolate and caramel. Not only are they delightful to eat, but they also look stunning on a dessert platter, making them a great choice for celebrations. Plus, they are a make-ahead treat that can be enjoyed at your convenience!
What Goes Into Turtle Cheesecake Truffles
To create these scrumptious Turtle Cheesecake Truffles, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 package Philadelphia Cream Cheese 1/3 Less Fat – This gives the truffles a rich, creamy texture while keeping them a bit lighter.
- 1 package (8 ounces) baking chocolate squares, semi-sweet (or candy melts) – This will be the outer layer that adds a delicious chocolatey coating.
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs – These add a crunchy texture reminiscent of traditional cheesecake crust.
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans, finely chopped – The nuts add a lovely crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the cheesecake.
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (or melted caramel squares) – This provides the sweet, gooey element that ties everything together.
What’s in the Gear List
Before you dive into making your Turtle Cheesecake Truffles, gather the following tools and equipment:
- Mixing bowl – For combining all the ingredients.
- Microwave-safe bowl – To melt the chocolate or candy melts.
- Baking sheet – Line it with parchment paper for easy truffle transfer.
- Cookie scoop or small spoon – For portioning out the truffles.
- Refrigerator – To chill the truffles and help them set properly.
Turtle Cheesecake Truffles in Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
Start by taking the package of Philadelphia Cream Cheese out of the refrigerator and allowing it to soften at room temperature for about 15 minutes. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the graham cracker crumbs, chopped pecans, and caramel sauce. Mix until well combined and smooth.
Step 2: Form the Truffles
Using a cookie scoop or small spoon, portion out the cheesecake mixture and roll it into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the formed truffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once all the mixture is rolled, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
While the truffles are chilling, melt the semi-sweet chocolate squares or candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth.
Step 4: Coat the Truffles
Once the truffles have chilled, remove them from the refrigerator. Dip each truffle into the melted chocolate, using a fork to lift it out and shake off any excess chocolate. Return the coated truffles to the parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 5: Drizzle with Caramel
After all the truffles are coated, drizzle some extra caramel sauce over the top of each truffle for that signature turtle touch. You can also sprinkle some additional finely chopped pecans for extra crunch.
Step 6: Chill Again
Place the baking sheet back in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to allow the chocolate coating to harden.
Swap Guide
If you’re looking to customize your Turtle Cheesecake Truffles, consider these ingredient swaps:
- Cream Cheese – Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a vegan version.
- Chocolate – Swap semi-sweet chocolate for dark chocolate or white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
- Pecans – Substitute with walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
- Caramel Sauce – Use a store-bought vegan caramel or make your own using coconut milk and brown sugar.
Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them
Creating Turtle Cheesecake Truffles is relatively straightforward, but here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Too Soft Mixture – If your cheesecake mixture is too soft to roll, chill it for an additional 10-15 minutes before forming truffles.
- Chocolate Not Coating – Ensure your chocolate is melted completely and at a warm temperature for easy coating. If it thickens too much, add a small amount of coconut oil to thin it out.
- Truffles Sticking – Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Uneven Coating – Use a fork to dip and shake off excess chocolate, ensuring a smoother finish.
Prep Ahead & Store
Turtle Cheesecake Truffles are a great make-ahead treat! You can prepare them up to a week in advance. Here’s how to store them:
Once the truffles are fully set, place them in an airtight container. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the truffles. Just make sure to let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.
Helpful Q&A
Can I use low-fat or fat-free cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat or fat-free cream cheese, but the texture may be slightly different. The truffles may be a bit less creamy but will still taste delicious!
What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs?
If you want an alternative to graham cracker crumbs, you can use crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even crushed cookies for a different flavor.
Can I make these truffles vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, use dairy-free chocolate, and replace the caramel with a vegan version. Just ensure all ingredients align with your dietary preferences.
How do I make these truffles more festive?
For a festive touch, consider adding food coloring to your chocolate coating or rolling the truffles in colored sprinkles or edible glitter before the chocolate hardens.
Before You Go
Turtle Cheesecake Truffles are not just a delightful dessert; they are a wonderful way to impress your friends and family with your baking skills. With their creamy filling, crunchy pecans, and luscious chocolate coating, they are sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a cozy treat at home, these truffles are bound to delight. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to indulge in these luscious bites of heaven!
Turtle Cheesecake Truffles
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by taking the package of Philadelphia Cream Cheese out of the refrigerator and allowing it to soften at room temperature for about 15 minutes. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the graham cracker crumbs, chopped pecans, and caramel sauce. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Using a cookie scoop or small spoon, portion out the cheesecake mixture and roll it into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the formed truffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once all the mixture is rolled, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up.
- While the truffles are chilling, melt the semi-sweet chocolate squares or candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth.
- Once the truffles have chilled, remove them from the refrigerator. Dip each truffle into the melted chocolate, using a fork to lift it out and shake off any excess chocolate. Return the coated truffles to the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- After all the truffles are coated, drizzle some extra caramel sauce over the top of each truffle for that signature turtle touch. You can also sprinkle some additional finely chopped pecans for extra crunch.
- Place the baking sheet back in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to allow the chocolate coating to harden.
Notes
- Chill the mixture longer if it's too soft to roll.
- Add coconut oil to melted chocolate if it thickens too much.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
