Lemon Truffles – A Bright and Creamy Treat You’ll Love

Paula

Creamy lemon truffles coated in powdered sugar

Lemon truffles are the ultimate bite-sized indulgence—zesty, creamy, and undeniably elegant. In this article, you’ll discover how to make the perfect lemon truffles at home with simple ingredients and no baking required. We’ll cover everything from a nostalgic story behind this favorite dessert to helpful tips for creating white chocolate lemon truffles, no bake lemon truffles, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious beginner, this easy lemon truffles recipe will become your new go-to treat for any occasion.

Velvety lemon truffles with a creamy center and sugar coating
The Story & Intro to Lemon Truffles

The sweet memory that started it all

Growing up, summer meant citrus. My grandmother had a lemon tree in her backyard, and every time I visited, she would whip up some sort of lemon dessert. But the one I remember most was a small, rich, creamy ball of lemony goodness she’d call her “sunshine bites.” They were her version of what I now call lemon truffles. The delicate balance of sweet white chocolate and tart lemon zest captured everything I love about summer in one bite.

Inspired by that memory, I’ve created a modern, foolproof version of these lemon truffles. They’re incredibly easy to make and packed with bright flavor. These no bake lemon truffles are creamy and smooth, with just the right tang from fresh lemon juice and zest. Every time I make them now, I’m taken back to that sunny kitchen, where citrus scents filled the air and love was always the main ingredient.

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Lemon Truffles – A Bright and Creamy Treat You’ll Love

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These lemon truffles are the perfect blend of creamy white chocolate and fresh citrus. This no bake dessert is easy to make and great for any occasion.

  • Author: Paula
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes + chill
  • Yield: 12 truffles 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Powdered sugar or shredded coconut for rolling

Instructions

  • Melt white chocolate in microwave or double boiler until smooth.
  • Beat softened cream cheese with lemon juice, zest, vanilla, and salt until creamy.
  • Mix in the melted white chocolate until well combined.
  • Refrigerate the mixture for 2 hours until firm enough to roll.
  • Scoop and roll into 1-inch balls, then coat in powdered sugar or coconut.
  • Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

  • Use high-quality white chocolate for the smoothest texture.
  • To make ahead, freeze the rolled truffles up to 2 months.
  • You can add lemon curd for extra flavor, but reduce the lemon juice slightly to maintain consistency. 

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Why lemon truffles belong in your dessert rotation

Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just want a little afternoon treat, lemon truffles are a perfect choice. They require no oven time, making them ideal for warm weather. Plus, they’re versatile. You can add coconut for a tropical twist or roll them in powdered sugar for a snowball effect. They’re also a beautiful addition to any dessert table.

For more lemony goodness, check out this fluffy Lemon Zucchini Bread that makes a perfect breakfast companion, or this creative Lemon Pizza Recipe for something bold and savory.

From memory to modern twist, these lemon truffles are creamy, dreamy, and ready to steal the spotlight on your dessert table.

Easy Lemon Truffles Recipe

Simple ingredients, sensational flavor

The beauty of an easy lemon truffles recipe lies in its simplicity. You don’t need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients—just a few pantry staples and fresh lemons. The creamy base typically combines white chocolate, cream cheese, and a burst of lemon juice and zest. When chilled and rolled, they create a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s both rich and refreshing.

Start with good-quality white chocolate because it’s the star. Pair it with full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture. A pinch of salt enhances the citrus notes, while vanilla extract adds depth. You’ll be amazed how a handful of ingredients can come together to create such an elegant treat.

Step-by-step guide to the perfect truffles

  1. Melt & mix: Gently melt white chocolate, either in a double boiler or microwave. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth, then add lemon juice, zest, and vanilla. Combine with the melted chocolate and chill until firm.
  2. Shape: Once the mixture firms up, scoop it into small balls. Roll them between your palms to smooth them out.
  3. Coat: You can roll them in powdered sugar, coconut flakes, crushed cookies, or even dip them in more melted white chocolate.

Serve these lemon truffles at room temperature for the best flavor. They store beautifully in the fridge, making them a make-ahead dream.

You can even take it up a notch by pairing them with Raspberry Lemon Heaven Cupcakes for a citrus-themed dessert spread. Or serve alongside Greek Lemon Chicken Soup for a savory-sweet balance in your dinner menu.

Once you try this easy lemon truffles recipe, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again—it’s quick, satisfying, and simply irresistible.

White Chocolate Lemon Truffles Twist

Why white chocolate is the perfect match for lemon

White chocolate and lemon are a match made in dessert heaven. The rich, buttery notes of white chocolate balance the bright, citrusy zing of lemon, creating a smooth and luxurious taste. That’s why white chocolate lemon truffles are such a crowd-pleaser—they deliver sweetness and tartness in perfect harmony.

When choosing white chocolate, quality matters. Look for bars with cocoa butter listed among the first ingredients (avoid baking chips with additives that prevent melting). This ensures a silky texture in your lemon truffle filling. Once combined with tangy lemon zest and juice, the flavor becomes layered and unforgettable.

Creative coatings and mix-ins

To make your white chocolate lemon truffles even more special, play around with coatings and textures. Dip the truffles in melted white chocolate for a glossy finish, then top with a sprinkle of crushed freeze-dried raspberries or edible flowers for a show-stopping presentation.

Feeling playful? Add crushed graham crackers, toasted coconut, or even finely chopped pistachios to the outside for contrast. Inside, you can infuse the cream cheese filling with a little lemon curd or even add finely chopped candied ginger for a spicy-sweet surprise.

These decadent white chocolate lemon truffles pair beautifully with other elegant treats like Mini Caramel Apple Cheesecakes for a dessert board with a little something for everyone. Or serve alongside a refreshing No-Bake Cheesecake Parfait for a no-fuss dessert spread.

You’ll find that each bite of these white chocolate lemon truffles brings a smooth, creamy burst of flavor that feels indulgent yet refreshing—a true celebration in every bite.

No Bake & Creamy Lemon Truffles Tips

No bake lemon truffles: your shortcut to dessert bliss

One of the best things about no bake lemon truffles is just how effortless they are. No oven, no fuss, and barely any cleanup—just melt, mix, chill, and roll. These are ideal for warm weather, busy days, or when you’re just craving something sweet and citrusy without the wait. Because there’s no baking involved, they’re also a great activity to do with kids or to prep ahead for gatherings.

The trick to perfect no bake lemon truffles lies in getting the mixture firm enough to roll. Be sure to chill the dough for at least 2 hours, or until it’s scoopable but not sticky. If you’re in a rush, a quick 30 minutes in the freezer does the trick. Once shaped, these truffles can be coated and chilled again—or served as-is for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Try pairing them with a citrusy delight like Easy Blueberry Sweet Rolls with Lemon Glaze or serve them after a savory meal like Lemon Butter Scallops to balance the richness.

Make them ultra creamy every time

Creamy lemon truffles are all about the texture. To get that velvety bite, use room-temperature cream cheese for smoother blending, and don’t overheat the white chocolate—it should be just melted, not hot. Mixing while both components are close in temperature avoids graininess.

Want to elevate the creaminess even more? Add a tablespoon of heavy cream or lemon curd to the mix. But keep in mind: too much liquid can make the truffles too soft, so balance it carefully.

Once you’ve nailed the texture, these truffles will rival anything from a bakery. They’re smooth, tangy, luxurious—and the fact that they’re no bake just makes them that much sweeter.

No bake lemon truffles served with tea, fresh lemon slices, and a dusting of powdered sugar
Wrapping It Up

Lemon truffles are more than just a treat—they’re a little burst of sunshine in every bite. Whether you’re drawn to the tang of citrus, the richness of white chocolate, or the simplicity of a no bake dessert, these creamy lemon truffles check every box. They’re easy to make, elegant to serve, and impossible to resist.

From lazy afternoons to holiday dessert platters, lemon truffles bring freshness and flavor wherever they go. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dessert that feels gourmet but is effortless to prepare.

For more citrusy favorites, explore this Coconut Cloud Cake Recipe or indulge in the cozy flavors of Biscoff Hot Chocolate.

FAQs

What are lemon truffles made of?

Lemon truffles are typically made with a base of cream cheese, white chocolate, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Some variations may include vanilla extract, graham cracker crumbs, or coconut for added flavor and texture. The mixture is rolled into bite-sized balls and often coated with powdered sugar, coconut, or even dipped in melted white chocolate for a decadent finish.

Do lemon truffles need to be refrigerated?

Yes, lemon truffles should be refrigerated. Because they contain dairy ingredients like cream cheese, they must be kept cold to maintain their shape and freshness. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay creamy and delicious for days.

Can I freeze lemon truffles for later?

Absolutely! Lemon truffles freeze beautifully. Place them on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the refrigerator for best results. Their creamy texture and zesty flavor remain perfectly intact.

How long do homemade lemon truffles last?

Stored properly in the fridge, homemade lemon truffles will last 5 to 7 days. Be sure to keep them in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out or absorbing other flavors. If you’re prepping ahead, you can freeze them for longer storage and still enjoy that same luscious bite.
Need another no-bake delight? These Banana Split Truffles and Cherry Cheesecake Fluff are fun, fruity, and just as easy to make.

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