Ingredients
Let’s dive into what you’ll need to recreate these festive delights. They require just a handful of simple ingredients, yet deliver an explosion of flavor:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Crushed peppermint candies for rolling
If you prefer a milder peppermint flavor, you can reduce the extract to half a teaspoon. Alternatively, dark chocolate chips can be substituted for a richer taste. My mum often experimented with these variations, making each batch a little different and equally delightful.
Instructions
Creating these truffles is as delightful as the result. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch ready in no time:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined and smooth.
- Stir in the peppermint extract, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Using your hands, roll the mixture into small balls, about one inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator and chill the truffles for at least an hour.
- While the truffles are chilling, melt the chocolate chips and vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before returning the truffle to the parchment paper.
- Immediately roll each chocolate-coated truffle in the crushed peppermint candies, ensuring an even coating.
- Chill the truffles again until the chocolate has set, about 15 minutes.
These steps are a breeze to follow, and you’ll find the process incredibly rewarding, especially as the delightful aroma fills your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
