Chocolate Buttercream Truffles are bite-sized, indulgent confections made from rich chocolate buttercream centers coated in smooth dark or milk chocolate and finished with an elegant sprinkle—perfect for special occasions or a luxurious treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These truffles deliver intense chocolate flavor in every bite. The creamy, melt-in-your-mouth buttercream filling contrasts beautifully with the crisp chocolate shell, making them a sophisticated yet easy-to-make dessert. Ideal for gifting, party trays, or a decadent personal indulgence.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Unsalted butter (softened)
Powdered sugar
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Heavy cream
Vanilla extract
Salt
Chocolate for coating (dark, milk, or white)
Optional toppings: sprinkles, crushed nuts, cocoa powder, or sea salt

Directions

Make truffle centers: Beat softened butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, heavy cream, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth, thick, and spreadable.
Shape centers: Scoop or pipe tablespoon-size portions onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill for at least 30 minutes until firm.
Melt coating chocolate: Melt chocolate in a double boiler or microwave until smooth, adding a small amount of coconut oil or butter if needed for smoother dipping.
Coat truffles: Using dipping tools or forks, submerge each chilled buttercream center into the melted chocolate. Tap off excess and place back onto parchment.
Decorate & set: Before coating sets completely, sprinkle with desired toppings. Chill briefly to fully set the shell.

Servings and timing

Yield: About 24 truffles
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes (centers) + 15 minutes (shell)
Total time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Flavored fillings: Add extracts like mint, orange, or espresso to the buttercream.
White chocolate shell: Dip in white chocolate and top with colorful sprinkles or freeze-dried fruit powder.
Nutty crunch: Roll centers in finely chopped nuts before chocolate coating.
Spiced truffles: Mix a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder into the buttercream for warmth.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Serving: Bring to room temperature for 20 minutes before enjoying to soften the centers.

FAQs

Can I use cookie butter instead of cocoa powder?

Yes—replace cocoa powder with an equal amount of cookie butter for a different flavor profile.

Do the centers have to be chilled before dipping?

Yes—the centers should be firm to prevent them from falling apart when dipped.

Can I dip truffles in chocolate chips?

Yes—you can use chips, but melting quality varies; stir in small amounts of oil or shortening for smoother coating.

How do I prevent cracks in the shell?

Allow centers to come to room temperature briefly before dipping and cool truffles fully in a single layer to avoid condensation.

Are these gluten-free?

Yes—made with cocoa, butter, cream, sugar, and chocolate, these are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use vegan butter and chocolate?

Absolutely—use dairy-free substitutes to make vegan-friendly truffles.

How do I store them for events?

Arrange in single layers separated by parchment in an airtight box.

Can I make them ahead for holidays?

Yes—truffles store and freeze well, making them an excellent make-ahead treat.

Do I need to temper the chocolate?

Not necessary for home use; for a glossy finish you can temper, but good-quality melts work fine.

Can I roll them in cocoa powder instead?

Yes—skip the shell and roll chilled centers in cocoa, powdered sugar, or chopped nuts for a simpler truffle.

Conclusion

Chocolate Buttercream Truffles are a decadent blend of creamy richness and luxurious chocolate, easy to prepare yet elegant enough for any occasion. With customizable fillings and shells, they make delightful gifts, dessert plates, or a personal indulgence whenever you’re craving something special.