Name: White Chocolate Eggnog Truffles
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 12 ounces good-quality white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate (use couverture if possible); 1/2 cup heavy cream, warm (use full-fat for best texture); 1/4 cup eggnog (fresh is best; store-bought works fine); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature (Adds shine.); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus extra for dusting); 1/2 cup white chocolate, melted for dipping (or white candy melts); 1/2 cup finely chopped toasted pecans or almonds, optional; 1/4 cup finely grated toasted coconut, optional; to taste Ground cinnamon or extra nutmeg for dusting; as needed Mini paper cups for presentation, optional

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Introduction

I still remember the first winter I made these truffles for a small family gathering. The kitchen smelled of warm vanilla and nutmeg, and I tasted the first truffle while the snow tapped at the window.

The creamy white chocolate melted on my tongue and the soft whisper of eggnog made it feel like a tiny holiday moment in every bite. It became a quick favorite because it felt like a grown-up candy that could be shared as a thoughtful gift.

These truffles are special to me because they combine the cozy spice of eggnog with the silky richness of high-quality white chocolate. If you love white-chocolate desserts, you might also enjoy this cranberry white chocolate cheesecake I linked while experimenting with flavors early on: Cranberry White Chocolate Cheesecake.

What Makes This Recipe Special

These truffles are quick to make, wonderfully festive, and incredibly crowd-pleasing. They capture holiday flavors without requiring complicated techniques. The ganache is smooth and rich, and the eggnog adds familiar spice notes so every bite tastes nostalgic. They are perfect for gifting, party platters, or a simple after-dinner treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Ganache

12 ounces good-quality white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate (use couverture if possible)
1/2 cup heavy cream, warm (use full-fat for best texture)
1/4 cup eggnog (fresh is best; store-bought works fine)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature (adds shine)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus extra for dusting)

For the Coating and Finish

1/2 cup white chocolate, melted for dipping (or white candy melts)
1/2 cup finely chopped toasted pecans or almonds, optional
1/4 cup finely grated toasted coconut, optional
Ground cinnamon or extra nutmeg for dusting
Mini paper cups for presentation, optional

Notes

Use the best-quality white chocolate you can find; lower-quality white chocolate can be waxy.
To make dairy-free/vegan: swap heavy cream for full-fat coconut cream and use vegan white chocolate. Expect a slightly coconut-forward flavor.
If your eggnog is boozy, the truffles will be slightly softer; adjust chilling time accordingly.

How to make White Chocolate Eggnog Truffles

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate

Chop the white chocolate finely and place it in a heatproof bowl. Measure the smaller 1/2 cup of white chocolate separately for coating.

Step 2: Warm the Cream and Eggnog (about 3–4 minutes)

In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream and eggnog. Warm over medium heat until just simmering around the edges. Do not boil. You should see steam and small bubbles, about 170–180°F if using a thermometer.

Step 3: Make the Ganache (1–2 minutes plus 2 hours chilling)

Pour the hot cream/eggnog mixture over the chopped white chocolate. Let sit for 1 minute to soften the chocolate.
Gently whisk from the center outward until smooth and glossy. Add the butter, vanilla, salt, and nutmeg, whisking until fully incorporated. The texture should be silky and thick but still pourable.
Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for about 1.5–2 hours, or until firm enough to scoop. The ganache should be set but still soft enough to shape.

Step 4: Scoop and Shape (15–20 minutes active)

Use a small cookie scoop or teaspoon to portion the ganache into 1-inch balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. If the ganache becomes too soft while shaping, chill the tray for 10–15 minutes. The balls should feel slightly firm but not rock-hard.

Step 5: Chill Before Coating (30 minutes)

Once all balls are shaped, freeze or refrigerate them for 20–30 minutes so they hold their shape when dipped.

Step 6: Melt Coating Chocolate (2–3 minutes)

Melt the reserved 1/2 cup white chocolate gently in a microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring between bursts, until smooth. Or use a double boiler. Keep it slightly warm but not hot.

Step 7: Dip and Finish (30–40 minutes)

Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each chilled truffle into the melted white chocolate, tapping off excess. Place back on parchment. Immediately sprinkle with nutmeg, cinnamon, chopped nuts, or coconut if desired. The coating should set within 10–15 minutes at room temperature, or faster in the fridge.

Step 8: Rest and Serve (chill 15 minutes if needed)

Allow the truffles to set completely before arranging in paper cups. Store chilled until serving.

Visual cues

Ganache: glossy, smooth, and thick.
Shaped truffles: hold their round shape but yield slightly to a gentle press.
Coating: smooth, even shell; avoid overheating white chocolate to prevent graininess.

Tips & Recipe Variations

Use high-quality white chocolate for a creamy, non-waxy ganache.
Chill the ganache well before scooping to get neat balls and avoid misshapen truffles.
If ganache is too soft, add 1 tablespoon melted white chocolate to firm it up; chill again.
For a boozy version: stir 1–2 tablespoons of dark rum, bourbon, or brandy into the ganache before chilling. Reduce eggnog slightly to keep texture.
Coating options: roll in crushed candy cane for a peppermint twist, dip in toasted coconut, or drizzle dark chocolate for contrast.
Dietary swaps: use coconut cream and vegan white chocolate for vegan truffles; for lower sugar, try sugar-free white chocolate alternatives, but texture may vary.
Storage: keep truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before serving.
Avoid condensation by placing chilled truffles into a cooler room temperature spot for a few minutes before unwrapping if coming from the freezer.

Best Ways to Serve

Pair with espresso, dark roast coffee, mulled wine, or a glass of port to balance the sweetness.
Arrange truffles in mini paper cups on a decorative platter or tiered serving tray. Sprinkle a little fresh nutmeg or cocoa on the platter for aroma.
Serving size: plan on 2–3 truffles per person as a dessert bite.
For gifting: place in cellophane bags with a ribbon or in a small box lined with tissue paper.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make these truffles ahead of time?
A: Yes. Ganache can be made and chilled up to 3 days ahead; shape and coat the same day you plan to serve, or shape and freeze coated truffles for gifting.

Q: Can I freeze the truffles?
A: Yes. Freeze on a tray until solid, then transfer to an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator to avoid condensation before serving.

Q: What can I use instead of eggnog?
A: Substitute half-and-half or a mix of cream and milk with 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg and a splash of vanilla. For boozy flavor, add a tablespoon of rum or bourbon.

Q: My ganache is grainy after melting the white chocolate. How do I fix it?
A: White chocolate is sensitive to overheating. Gently reheat with a small spoonful of warm cream to smooth it, whisking until glossy. If it remains grainy, start with fresh chocolate.

Q: Can I make these dairy-free?
A: Yes. Use full-fat coconut cream and vegan white chocolate. Expect a subtle coconut note in the flavor.

Review

“These truffles were an absolute hit at our holiday party. The eggnog flavor comes through beautifully without being overpowering. They looked elegant and vanished within minutes. I will make them every year.” – A delighted home baker

Conclusion

These White Chocolate Eggnog Truffles are a small, luxurious way to share holiday cheer. They bring together creamy white chocolate and cozy spices in a bite-sized treat that’s easy to make and lovely to gift. If you want another take or inspiration, check out this related recipe for ideas and variations: White Chocolate Eggnog Truffles – Crumb: A Food Blog. I hope you try them, share them, and leave a note about how you customized the flavors. Happy truffle-making!