Introduction
Imagine biting into a Strawberry Shortcake Truffle — the crisp, sweet exterior gives way to a creamy, strawberry-infused center that melts in your mouth. These bite-sized delights capture all the flavors of classic strawberry shortcake, perfect for parties, gifts, or an indulgent treat. What makes these truffles so special is the harmonious balance of textures: crunchy shortcake pieces, smooth cream cheese, and the luscious strawberry coating. You’ll learn how to create these irresistible confections at home, along with tips for perfect texture, flavor balance, and presentation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Strawberry Shortcake Truffles are more than just a dessert; they are a sensory experience. The truffles combine buttery shortcake crumbs, tangy cream cheese, and sweet, aromatic strawberries for a flavor explosion in every bite. You’ll love the contrast between the crumbly interior and the smooth strawberry coating that holds everything together. This recipe is quick, requires no baking beyond the shortcake itself (or store-bought shortcake), and can be customized with chocolate drizzle, sprinkles, or freeze-dried strawberry dust. Even novice cooks will find success because the steps are straightforward yet produce an elegant, crowd-pleasing treat. Perfect for holidays, bridal showers, or a simple afternoon pick-me-up, these truffles satisfy every craving for something sweet, fruity, and indulgent.
Ingredients
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2 cups crushed shortcake cookies (or homemade shortcake)
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8 oz. cream cheese, softened
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1 cup powdered sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, finely crushed
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12 oz. white chocolate or strawberry-flavored candy melts
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Optional: sprinkles, extra crushed shortcake, or chocolate drizzle for decoration
Pro Tips
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Chill for stability: After forming the truffle centers, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before dipping. This prevents them from falling apart during coating.
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Work quickly with chocolate: Melt chocolate in short intervals and stir frequently to avoid overheating, which can make the coating grainy.
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Uniform sizes: Use a small cookie scoop or teaspoon to ensure all truffles are consistent in size for even coating and professional presentation.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Truffle Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the crushed shortcake cookies, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until well incorporated. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape but smooth enough to roll.
Step 2: Form the Truffles
Using a small cookie scoop or teaspoon, scoop portions of the mixture and roll them between your hands to form small, even balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 3: Chill the Truffles
Refrigerate the truffles for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial to prevent the truffles from melting or losing shape during coating.
Step 4: Prepare the Strawberry Coating
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate or strawberry candy melts in 20-30 second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. If desired, fold in 2 tablespoons of crushed freeze-dried strawberries for added flavor.
Step 5: Dip the Truffles
Using a fork or dipping tool, gently dip each truffle into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow excess chocolate to drip off before placing the truffle back onto the parchment paper.
Step 6: Decorate
Before the coating sets, sprinkle additional crushed shortcake, freeze-dried strawberry powder, or drizzle with melted chocolate for a beautiful finish.
Step 7: Set and Serve
Allow the coated truffles to set at room temperature or in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes. Serve chilled or at room temperature. These truffles can also be stored for later enjoyment.
Variations
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Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake Truffles: Use milk or dark chocolate melts instead of white chocolate for a richer taste.
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Vegan Version: Substitute cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and use dairy-free chocolate.
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Nutty Twist: Fold in finely chopped nuts such as pistachios or almonds for extra crunch.
Storage/Serving
Store Strawberry Shortcake Truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; allow them to thaw in the fridge before serving. Serve on a decorative platter for parties or gift in small boxes with parchment paper. These truffles also pair beautifully with a cup of tea, coffee, or a glass of sparkling rosé for an elegant dessert experience.
FAQs
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Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?
Fresh strawberries add too much moisture and will make the truffles mushy. Freeze-dried strawberries are ideal for flavor without affecting texture. -
Do I need to bake the shortcake?
No, you can use store-bought shortcake cookies or homemade baked shortcake. Both work perfectly. -
How can I prevent the coating from cracking?
Ensure the truffles are chilled and the chocolate is not overheated. A smooth, slightly cooled coating will adhere without cracking. -
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, truffles can be made a day or two in advance. Keep them refrigerated until serving. -
Are these gluten-free?
They are not by default but can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free cookies or shortcake.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Shortcake Truffles recipe is comfort food at its finest — sweet, tangy, and delightfully bite-sized. It’s the kind of treat that brings joy at gatherings, makes an impressive gift, or turns an ordinary afternoon into a special occasion. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, these truffles are a must-make for every dessert lover.
Print
Strawberry Shortcake Truffles
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Description
These Strawberry Shortcake Truffles are little bites of heaven with a creamy center and a sweet, crunchy coating. Perfect for gifts, parties, or just treating yourself.
Ingredients
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2 cups crushed shortcake cookies
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8 oz. cream cheese, softened
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1 cup powdered sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, finely crushed
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12 oz. white chocolate or strawberry-flavored candy melts
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Optional: sprinkles, extra crushed shortcake, or chocolate drizzle for decoration
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, combine crushed shortcake cookies, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
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Scoop mixture with a small cookie scoop or teaspoon and roll into balls. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Refrigerate truffles for at least 30 minutes.
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Melt white chocolate or candy melts in 20–30 second intervals, stirring until smooth. Optionally mix in crushed freeze-dried strawberries.
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Dip each truffle into melted chocolate and place back onto parchment paper.
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Decorate with sprinkles, extra shortcake crumbs, or drizzle with chocolate before coating sets.
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Allow truffles to set in the fridge for 15–20 minutes. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: cooking
- Cuisine: American