Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles are the kind of treats that make the holidays (or any celebration!) instantly feel special. They’re creamy, dreamy, and dotted with tangy cranberries and crunchy pistachios, all wrapped in luscious white chocolate. Whether you’re making them to gift, as a centerpiece for a dessert table, or as a personal indulgence, these truffles add a pop of color and a burst of flavor to your dessert spread. If you love a mix of sweet, tart, and nutty in just one bite, you’re about to meet your new favorite no-bake confection!

Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles is that they rely on just a handful of ingredients, each one playing an essential role in the final flavor and texture. Here’s what you need for this elegant treat—and why you don’t want to skip a single one!

White chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate: The silky-smooth base that gives these truffles their signature sweetness and creamy texture.
Heavy cream: Helps melt the chocolate and makes the truffle centers exceptionally rich and luscious.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors and adds a warm, comforting note.
Dried cranberries (finely chopped): Offer a vibrant pop of tartness and color in every bite.
Shelled pistachios (finely chopped): Bring a gorgeous green hue and a delightful crunch that complement the creamy filling.
Unsalted butter: Adds a supple silkiness and helps create the perfect texture for rolling.
Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and heightens all the other flavors.

How to Make Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles

Step 1: Prep the Chocolate

Place your white chocolate chips or finely chopped white chocolate in a medium heatproof bowl. This will set the stage for the ganache, ensuring that you’re ready for instant melting once the hot cream mixture gets poured over.

Step 2: Heat the Cream and Butter

In a small saucepan, pour in the heavy cream and add the tablespoon of unsalted butter. Warm them over medium heat, watching closely until tiny bubbles just start to form around the edges—no need to boil! The goal here is gentle heat so the chocolate will melt smoothly and not scorch.

Step 3: Melt and Combine

Pour the hot cream and butter mixture directly over the waiting white chocolate. Let it sit for about one to two minutes so the warmth can melt the chocolate evenly, then gently stir until you have a perfectly smooth and glossy ganache. This is where all the magic begins!

Step 4: Add Flavors and Mix-ins

Now stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt for flavor balance. Then fold in the chopped dried cranberries and pistachios—the star ingredients that make these Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles so irresistible. Every single truffle will have little festive jewels of fruit and nut in each bite!

Step 5: Chill the Mixture

Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours, or until the ganache is firm enough to scoop. This waiting period is perfect for prepping dinner or wrapping presents, and it ensures your truffles will be delightfully easy to handle.

Step 6: Shape the Truffles

Once the mixture is chilled, use a small cookie scoop or a spoon to portion out 1-inch balls of ganache. Quickly roll each one between your palms to smooth out the edges and create that classic truffle shape. Place the finished balls onto a parchment-lined tray—don’t worry if they’re not perfectly round, a little rustic charm is part of the homemade joy!

Step 7: Final Chill and Decoration

Pop the tray of truffles back into the refrigerator for another 30 minutes so they can set and hold their shape. For a finishing flourish, roll the truffles in extra chopped pistachios or drizzle with more melted white chocolate. This step is optional but adds gorgeous flair and extra flavor!

How to Serve Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles

Garnishes

A dazzling treat deserves a pretty finish! Try rolling your Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles in extra finely chopped pistachios for a burst of green and crunch, or sift a cloud of powdered sugar over the top for a snowy effect. A quick drizzle of melted white chocolate not only adds elegance but also sets to a glossy shine, making them look bakery-shop worthy.

Side Dishes

Since these truffles are rich and creamy, they pair wonderfully with something simple and light on the side. Serve them alongside fresh fruit such as orange segments or strawberries, or double down on indulgence with a hot cup of espresso or spiced chai. For a holiday dessert platter, mix them in with almond cookies or spiced shortbread for a festive variety.

Creative Ways to Present

Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles make the ultimate edible gift—tuck them into pretty boxes lined with parchment for an instant wow factor. Arrange them on tiered cake stands for parties, or place each truffle in a mini cupcake liner for a polished, individual presentation. For parties, set up a DIY garnish station and let guests roll or drizzle their own for an interactive dessert experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pop any leftover Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles into an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to a week—just be sure to separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking. Each day, they get a little softer and somehow more irresistible!

Freezing

If you want to make these truffles ahead or save some for later, freezing is a great option. Arrange the finished truffles in a single layer on a lined baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to two months. Let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving, and they’ll taste just as luxurious.

Reheating

These truffles are best enjoyed cold or at cool room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If they ever seem too firm right from the fridge, just let them sit out for a few minutes so the centers become perfectly creamy again.

FAQs

Can I use other dried fruits besides cranberries?

Absolutely! While cranberries add a signature tartness and color, you can substitute dried cherries, apricots, or even blueberries for a twist that’s just as delightful. Just make sure to chop whichever fruit you choose into small pieces so the texture stays even.

Will another type Dessert

Yes, you can experiment with milk or dark chocolate if white chocolate isn’t your style. Each will create a different flavor profile, but keep an eye on the cream-to-chocolate ratio, as darker chocolates require a tad more cream for that silky truffle texture.

Can I make these Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles vegan?

You can! Use a good-quality dairy-free white chocolate, coconut cream in place of heavy cream, and vegan butter. Just keep in mind that dairy-free white chocolates can behave a little differently when melting, so be patient and melt gently for the best results.

What’s the best way to chop the cranberries and pistachios?

A sharp chef’s knife does the job perfectly! For faster results, pulse the pistachios in a food processor a few times, but be careful not to overdo it—you want a little texture. The same technique works for cranberries; just don’t let them get too sticky or clump together.

How do I know when the ganache is ready to be scooped?

Once the mixture is chilled and you can scoop out a spoonful that holds its shape without oozing, you’re set! It should feel firm yet pliable, kind of like cold playdough. If it’s too soft, chill it longer; if too hard, let it sit at room temperature briefly before scooping.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a treat that’s festive, elegant, and absolutely delicious, I can’t recommend Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles enough. They’re a breeze to make, endlessly giftable, and always the first to disappear from the dessert tray. Give them a try—your taste buds (and everyone you share them with) will thank you!

Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles Recipe

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4.6 from 12 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling)
Yield: 20 truffles 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in these delightful Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles for a sweet and tangy treat that’s perfect for the holiday season. Creamy white chocolate is infused with dried cranberries and crunchy pistachios, creating a burst of festive flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

12 oz white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
1/3 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup dried cranberries (finely chopped)
1/3 cup shelled pistachios (finely chopped)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
pinch of salt

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Instructions

Prepare the White Chocolate Mixture: Place the white chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
Melt the Chocolate: Heat the heavy cream and butter in a saucepan until simmering, then pour over the white chocolate. Stir until smooth.
Add Flavorings: Mix in the vanilla extract, salt, cranberries, and pistachios.
Chill the Mixture: Refrigerate for 2–3 hours until firm.
Form Truffles: Scoop out mixture, roll into balls, and chill again.
Serve: Optionally coat truffles in pistachios or drizzle with white chocolate.