Lemon Truffles Recipe

Dreamy Lemon Truffles Recipe: Zesty Bites of Sunshine

Sweet dreams come true with these delightful lemon truffles that dance between creamy richness and zesty brightness.

Clusters of smooth white chocolate melt seamlessly with tangy citrus notes.

Silky ganache creates a luxurious backdrop for bright lemon essence.

Delicate and elegant, these truffles offer a sophisticated twist on traditional chocolate treats.

Subtle hints of citrus transform ordinary desserts into memorable moments.

Whip up this simple recipe and surprise everyone with a burst of sunshine in every bite.

You’ll fall in love with these irresistible little gems that sparkle like edible jewels.

How to Keep Lemon Truffles Fresh

  • Store truffles in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper. Keep chilled for up to 5 days.
  • Wrap individual truffles in plastic wrap, place in freezer-safe container. Freeze for 2-3 months without losing texture or flavor.
  • Transfer frozen truffles to refrigerator and let thaw slowly for 2-3 hours. Avoid room temperature thawing to prevent texture changes.
  • Remove truffles from refrigerator 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance flavor profile.

FAQs

  • What ingredients make lemon truffles unique?

White chocolate, fresh lemon zest, and butter create a creamy, tangy flavor profile that sets these truffles apart from traditional chocolate truffles.

  • Are lemon truffles difficult to make?

Not at all! These truffles require minimal baking skills and just a few simple steps of heating cream, melting chocolate, and rolling chilled mixture into balls.

  • Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of zest?

Fresh lemon zest is recommended for the most vibrant citrus flavor. Bottled juice lacks the intense aromatic oils found in fresh zest that give these truffles their bright taste.

Reasons Lemon Truffles Are a Must-Try

  • Whip Up Quickly: These lemon truffles require minimal cooking skills and basic ingredients, making them perfect for beginners or busy home cooks looking for a simple dessert.
  • Burst with Citrus Delight: The zesty lemon flavor adds a refreshing twist to traditional truffles, creating a bright and tangy treat that stands out from typical chocolate desserts.
  • Versatile Party Pleaser: Elegant enough for special occasions like bridal showers or birthday gatherings, yet simple enough for casual family gatherings, these truffles impress guests with minimal effort.
  • Customizable Coating Options: Easily personalize the truffles by rolling them in different toppings like powdered sugar, graham cracker crumbs, or even crushed pistachios for added texture and visual appeal.

What’s Inside Lemon Truffles Recipe

Chocolate Base:
  • White Chocolate: A sweet, creamy ingredient that provides the primary flavor and structure for the truffles.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a smooth, rich texture and helps melt the chocolate.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps create a silky, soft truffle consistency.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Lemon Zest: Brings a bright, citrusy note that complements the sweet white chocolate.
Coating Options:
  • Powdered Sugar, Graham Cracker Crumbs: Provide a sweet and textural exterior that adds contrast to the smooth truffle center.

How to Make Lemon Truffles Easily

Step 1: Warm the Cream

Gently heat the cream in a saucepan over medium heat, watching carefully until it just starts to simmer and create tiny bubbles around the edges.

The cream should be hot but not boiling.

Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Butter

Remove the saucepan from heat and add:
  • White chocolate
  • Butter

Stir continuously until both ingredients completely melt and blend into a silky, smooth mixture with no lumps visible.

Step 3: Infuse Lemony Flavor

Sprinkle fresh lemon zest into the chocolate mixture, stirring thoroughly to distribute the bright citrus notes evenly.

Allow the mixture to cool down slightly at room temperature.

Step 4: Chill the Mixture

Transfer the mixture to the refrigerator and let it firm up for about 2 hours.

The mixture should become solid enough to handle and shape without falling apart.

Step 5: Shape Truffles

Using a small scoop or spoon, portion out small amounts of the chilled mixture.

Roll each portion between your palms to create smooth, round truffle balls.

Step 6: Create Delicious Coating

Roll each truffle in your chosen coating:
  • Powdered sugar
  • Graham cracker crumbs

Ensure each truffle is completely and evenly covered.

Step 7: Final Chill

Place the coated truffles back in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Keep chilled for the best texture and flavor.

Tips That Improve Lemon Truffles Recipe

  • Refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours to ensure the truffles hold their shape and develop a rich, creamy texture.
  • Grate lemon zest directly from fresh lemons for the most vibrant and intense citrus flavor in your truffles.
  • Keep your hands slightly damp and cool when shaping truffles to prevent the mixture from sticking and to create smooth, uniform balls.
  • Try different coatings like toasted coconut, crushed pistachios, or white chocolate shavings for added texture and flavor variety.
  • Keep truffles refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain their freshness and prevent melting.

Fun Lemon Truffle Combos to Explore

  • Lime Zest Truffles: Replace lemon zest with lime zest for a tangy citrus variation that offers a bright, refreshing flavor profile.
  • Dairy-Free Coconut Truffles: Swap heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use dairy-free white chocolate for a vegan-friendly version with rich coconut undertones.
  • Almond-Infused Truffles: Add almond extract instead of lemon zest and coat with toasted almond crumbs for a nutty, sophisticated spin on the original recipe.
  • Gluten-Free Dark Chocolate Truffles: Use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate and coat with gluten-free cookie crumbs for a decadent alternative suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

What Complements Lemon Truffles Best

  • Zesty Party Platter: Arrange lemon truffles on a beautiful white ceramic plate with fresh mint leaves scattered around for a stunning presentation.
  • Sweet Beverage Pairing: Serve alongside chilled white wine, chamomile tea, or sparkling lemonade to complement the truffles' bright citrus flavor.
  • Dessert Gift Idea: Package truffles in small clear gift boxes with ribbon, perfect for hostess gifts, bridal showers, or summer gatherings.
  • Elegant Garnish Touch: Dust extra lemon zest or sprinkle edible flowers on top of truffles for a sophisticated and visually appealing finish.
Print
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Lemon Truffles Recipe

Lemon Truffles Recipe


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4.8 from 39 reviews

  • Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Delightful lemon truffles sparkle with zesty citrus notes and creamy white chocolate charm. Sweet confections offer a refreshing dessert experience you’ll savor with pure culinary joy.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) white chocolate, chopped
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon (15 grams) unsalted butter

Flavor and Zest:

  • Zest of 1 lemon

Coating and Sweetener:

  • 1/2 cup (60 grams) powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup (30 grams) graham cracker crumbs (optional, for coating)

Instructions

  1. Gently warm cream in a saucepan over medium heat until tiny bubbles form around the edges, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  2. Immediately remove from heat and incorporate white chocolate and butter, stirring continuously until completely melted and creating a silky, uniform texture.
  3. Fold in fragrant lemon zest, ensuring even distribution throughout the creamy mixture.
  4. Allow the mixture to cool at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator and chill for 2 hours until the mixture becomes firm and manageable.
  5. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, carefully extract portions of the chilled mixture and roll between palms to create smooth, uniform spheres.
  6. Generously roll each truffle in powdered sugar or finely crushed graham cracker crumbs, ensuring complete and even coverage.
  7. Place coated truffles on a parchment-lined tray and return to the refrigerator to set for an additional 30 minutes before serving.
  8. Store truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, allowing them to soften slightly at room temperature before enjoying.

Notes

  • Chill the mixture thoroughly to ensure easy ball formation and prevent sticking to your hands.
  • Use fresh, high-quality lemons for the most vibrant and authentic citrus flavor in your truffles.
  • Opt for finely grated zest to distribute the lemon essence evenly throughout the truffle mixture.
  • For a gluten-free version, replace graham cracker crumbs with crushed gluten-free cookies or toasted coconut flakes.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 25 g
  • Sodium: 20 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

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