Turtle Cheesecake Truffles

Indulging in a sweet treat has never been easier or more delightful than with these Turtle Cheesecake Truffles. Combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the classic flavors of turtle candy—chocolate, caramel, and pecans—these truffles are a perfect bite-sized dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for a party or simply looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Turtle Cheesecake Truffles deserve a spot in your recipe collection for several compelling reasons. First, they are incredibly simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Second, the flavor combination of creamy cheesecake, rich chocolate, and sweet caramel is an irresistible treat that will delight anyone who tries them. Lastly, they are perfect for sharing, making them an ideal dessert for gatherings, holidays, or any special occasion.

What Goes Into Turtle Cheesecake Truffles

Creating these delectable truffles is straightforward, and the ingredients are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 package Philadelphia Cream Cheese 1/3 Less Fat – this provides the creamy base for your cheesecake truffles.
• 1 package (8 ounces) baking chocolate squares, semi-sweet (or candy melts) – for coating the truffles and adding that rich chocolatey flavor.
• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs – these add texture and that classic cheesecake crust flavor.
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans, finely chopped – for a crunchy element and nutty taste.
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce (or melted caramel squares) – to swirl in and drizzle over the truffles for a sweet finish.

Hardware & Gadgets

Before you start making your Turtle Cheesecake Truffles, gather the necessary tools:

• Mixing bowl – for blending the cream cheese and other ingredients.
• Cookie scoop or spoon – to portion out the truffle mixture evenly.
• Baking sheet – lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl – for melting the chocolate or candy melts.
• Whisk or spatula – for mixing and spreading the caramel.

Cooking Turtle Cheesecake Truffles: The Process

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making Turtle Cheesecake Truffles.

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 package of Philadelphia Cream Cheese 1/3 Less Fat with the graham cracker crumbs and chopped pecans. Mix until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps. The mixture should hold together well.

Step 2: Form the Truffles

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the cheesecake mixture and roll it into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place each truffle on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once all the mixture is rolled, place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

While the truffles are chilling, melt the semi-sweet baking chocolate squares or candy melts. You can do this using a double boiler or in the microwave, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring until smooth.

Step 4: Coat the Truffles

Once the truffles are firm, remove them from the freezer. Dip each truffle into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated. Use a fork to lift them out, allowing excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl. Return the coated truffles to the baking sheet.

Step 5: Drizzle with Caramel

After coating all the truffles in chocolate, warm the caramel sauce slightly if it’s too thick. Drizzle the caramel over each chocolate-coated truffle using a spoon. For an extra touch, sprinkle a few extra chopped pecans on top of the caramel.

Step 6: Chill Again

Place the baking sheet with the truffles back into the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the chocolate and caramel to set.

Customize for Your Needs

Feel free to customize your Turtle Cheesecake Truffles to suit your taste or dietary preferences:

• Use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a richer flavor.
• Add a pinch of sea salt on top of the caramel for a salted caramel twist.
• Substitute almonds or walnuts for pecans, depending on your nut preference.
• Mix in a splash of vanilla extract to the cheesecake mixture for added flavor.

Steer Clear of These

To ensure the best results with your Turtle Cheesecake Truffles, avoid the following:

• Using regular cream cheese, as it can make the truffles too heavy and rich.
• Overheating the chocolate, which can cause it to seize and become unusable.
• Skipping the chilling step, as this is crucial for the truffles to hold their shape.
• Using coarse pecans or nuts, as finely chopped nuts provide a better texture.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

Turtle Cheesecake Truffles are freezer-friendly, making them a great make-ahead treat:

You can store uncoated truffles in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just roll them into balls and place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator before coating them in chocolate and caramel.

Common Qs About Turtle Cheesecake Truffles

Can I use a different type of cheese?

For a different flavor, you could experiment with mascarpone cheese. However, it will change the texture and taste slightly.

How long do these truffles last in the fridge?

When stored in an airtight container, Turtle Cheesecake Truffles can last for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Can I make these truffles vegan?

Yes! You can use vegan cream cheese, dairy-free chocolate, and maple syrup instead of caramel for a vegan-friendly version.

What’s the best way to serve these truffles?

These truffles are best served chilled. You can place them in mini cupcake liners for a beautiful presentation when serving at parties.

If you’re a fan of these Turtle Cheesecake Truffles, you might also enjoy these delicious recipes:

Serve & Enjoy

Once your Turtle Cheesecake Truffles have set and are ready to go, serve them on a beautiful platter or in individual treat bags for a thoughtful gift. These truffles are perfect for any celebration or as a sweet pick-me-up during the day.

The combination of the creamy cheesecake, chocolate coating, and gooey caramel will have everyone raving about your delicious creation. Enjoy every bite of these irresistible Turtle Cheesecake Truffles, and don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and family!