Simple Red Velvet Cake Truffles Recipe
Make delicious red velvet cake truffles! Get our easy recipe for rich, bite-sized treats with cream cheese, perfect for gifts or parties.
Picture biting into a velvety, chocolate-coated sphere that melts on your tongue, revealing rich red velvet cake flavor with hints of cocoa and cream cheese. These red velvet cake truffles transform leftover cake into an elegant dessert that rivals any fancy confection. Fun fact: red velvet cake gained popularity during the Great Depression when bakers used beet juice for coloring!
What makes these truffles special is their incredible simplicity – you can whip them up in just 30 minutes using basic ingredients. They’re perfect for entertaining, gift-giving, or satisfying your sweet tooth.
Unlike our popular chocolate chip cookies that require baking time, these no-bake beauties come together effortlessly. Get ready to impress everyone with these luxurious little bites!
Table of Contents
What is Red Velvet Cake Truffles?
Ever wondered why we call these decadent spheres “truffles”? These aren’t the fancy mushrooms chefs hunt for in France! Red velvet cake truffles get their name from their resemblance to expensive chocolate truffles – small, round, and utterly irresistible.
The story goes that a clever baker had leftover red velvet cake and thought, “Why waste this beauty?” They crumbled it up, mixed in cream cheese, and rolled it into balls. As they say, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and these truffles definitely prove that point! Ready to fall in love with this genius creation?
Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Cake Truffles:
Rich, Decadent Flavor Profile
The combination of moist red velvet cake and tangy cream cheese creates an explosion of flavors that dance on your palate. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of chocolate undertones, vanilla sweetness, and that signature red velvet taste that makes your taste buds sing.
Budget-Friendly Dessert Solution
Making red velvet cake truffles at home costs a fraction of what you’d pay at fancy chocolate shops. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create dozens of elegant treats perfect for parties, holidays, or everyday indulgence without breaking the bank.
Customizable Coating Options
From classic white chocolate to rich dark chocolate, crushed nuts, or colorful sprinkles, these truffles become your canvas for creativity. The smooth cream cheese filling pairs beautifully with any coating you choose, making them as visually stunning as they are delicious.
Similar to our beloved chocolate lava cakes, these truffles offer that same luxurious experience but with even less effort required. Why not explore both recipes and create the ultimate dessert spread? Roll up your sleeves and let’s create some magic in your kitchen!
How to Make Red Velvet Cake Truffles:
Quick Overview
These red velvet cake truffles are:
- Easy to make – No baking required, just mix and roll
- Incredibly delicious – Rich, creamy, and indulgent
- Perfectly satisfying – Each bite melts in your mouth
- Beautifully elegant – Smooth chocolate coating with vibrant red interior
Preparation Details:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Coating Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
- Servings: 24 truffles
Key Ingredients for Red Velvet Cake Truffles:
For the Truffle Base:
- 1 box red velvet cake mix (plus ingredients called for on box: eggs, oil, water)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Coating:
- 12 oz white chocolate chips or melting wafers
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening
- Red food coloring (optional, for drizzle)
- Sprinkles or chopped nuts (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Red Velvet Cake
Bake the red velvet cake according to package directions in a 9×13 inch pan. Allow the cake to cool completely, about 1 hour. Once cooled, crumble the entire cake into fine crumbs using your hands or a food processor.
Make the Truffle Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Add the cake crumbs gradually, mixing until well combined and the mixture holds together when pressed.
Shape the Truffles
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. If the mixture is too soft, refrigerate for 30 minutes before rolling. Chill the formed truffles for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Prepare the Chocolate Coating
Melt the white chocolate chips with coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth. The mixture should be fluid enough for easy dipping but not too thin.
Coat the Truffles
Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Place back on the parchment-lined baking sheet. If desired, drizzle with colored chocolate or add sprinkles while the coating is still wet.
Final Chill
Refrigerate the coated truffles for 15 minutes until the chocolate sets completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
What to Serve Red Velvet Cake Truffles With:
Beverages:
- Rich coffee or espresso to balance the sweetness
- Cold milk for a classic pairing
- Champagne or prosecco for elegant occasions
- Hot chocolate for the ultimate indulgence
Complementary Desserts:
- Fresh strawberries and whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream for temperature contrast
- Chocolate-covered strawberries for a romantic spread
- Mini cheesecake bites for variety
Party Presentation Ideas:
- Arrange on tiered serving stands
- Pair with other bite-sized desserts
- Serve alongside fruit and cheese boards
- Present in decorative gift boxes
Top Tips for Perfecting Red Velvet Cake Truffles:
Temperature Control is Key
Keep your ingredients at the right temperature throughout the process. Cream cheese should be completely softened for smooth mixing, while truffles need to be well-chilled before coating to prevent melting and maintain their shape.
Achieving the Right Consistency
If your truffle mixture is too wet, add more cake crumbs gradually. If it’s too dry, add cream cheese one tablespoon at a time. The mixture should hold together when squeezed but not be sticky or crumbly.
Coating Techniques
Work quickly when dipping truffles, as the chocolate will begin to set. If the coating becomes too thick, reheat gently. For clean-looking truffles, tap the fork gently on the bowl’s edge to remove excess chocolate.
Flavor Variations
Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder for deeper chocolate flavor, or substitute almond extract for vanilla for a different taste profile. You can also mix in mini chocolate chips for texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t skip the chilling time – it’s essential for easy handling. Avoid overheating the chocolate coating, which can cause it to seize. Don’t rush the process; patience creates the most professional-looking results.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Refrigerator Storage: Store red velvet cake truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Layer them between parchment paper to prevent sticking. Bring to room temperature 10-15 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Freezer Storage: These truffles freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Gift-Giving Storage: For gifting, place truffles in decorative boxes with parchment paper dividers. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days at room temperature in cool conditions, or include a note to refrigerate for longer storage.
No Reheating Needed: Unlike baked goods, these truffles are best served chilled or at room temperature. Never microwave or heat them, as this will melt the coating and ruin the texture.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Truffle (1 piece) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 145 |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 15mg |
| Sodium | 95mg |
| Total Carbs | 18g |
| Sugars | 16g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fiber | 1g |
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make red velvet cake truffles without baking a cake from scratch?
Absolutely! You can use store-bought red velvet cake or even red velvet cake mix. Some bakers use red velvet cookies or leftover cake scraps. The key is having about 3 cups of finely crumbled red velvet cake.
How long do red velvet cake truffles last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, these truffles stay fresh for up to one week. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, making them perfect for advance preparation for special occasions.
Can I use different types of chocolate for coating?
Yes! Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even colored candy melts work wonderfully. Each type creates a different flavor profile. Dark chocolate provides a sophisticated contrast to the sweet filling, while milk chocolate offers a milder taste.
Why are my truffles falling apart when I dip them?
This usually happens when the truffle mixture is too warm or not chilled long enough. Make sure to refrigerate the formed balls for at least 2 hours before dipping. Also, ensure your chocolate coating isn’t too hot.
Can I make these truffles dairy-free or vegan?
You can substitute the cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese and use dairy-free chocolate for coating. For vegan options, ensure your red velvet cake is made with vegan ingredients as well.
What’s the best way to get smooth, professional-looking coatings?
The secret is temperature control and technique. Use a dipping fork, tap off excess chocolate gently, and work quickly. Adding a small amount of coconut oil to the melted chocolate helps create a smoother finish.
Can I add alcohol to the truffle mixture?
Yes! A tablespoon of rum, bourbon, or liqueur can add sophisticated flavor. Add it gradually and adjust the cake crumb amount if the mixture becomes too wet.
How far in advance can I make these for a party?
These truffles are perfect make-ahead treats. You can prepare them up to a week in advance and store them in the refrigerator, or make them up to 3 months ahead and freeze them.
Bonus Tips for Success
Make Them Extra Special:
- Roll some truffles in crushed pecans or walnuts before the chocolate coating
- Create a variety pack with different coatings for gift boxes
- Use heart-shaped molds for Valentine’s Day presentations
- Add a drop of peppermint extract for a unique twist
Troubleshooting Guide:
- If chocolate coating is too thick, add more coconut oil
- If truffles crack when dipping, they may be too cold – let them sit for 5 minutes
- For perfectly round truffles, roll them again after the first chill
- Use a small ice cream scoop for uniform sizing
Creative Variations: Try making these with different cake flavors like chocolate, vanilla, or lemon. You can also create layered truffles by using two different cake flavors in the same truffle for a beautiful cross-section effect.
These red velvet cake truffles prove that the most elegant desserts often come from the simplest techniques. Whether you’re treating yourself, impressing guests, or creating heartfelt gifts, this recipe delivers professional results every single time. The combination of rich red velvet flavor, creamy texture, and smooth chocolate coating creates an unforgettable dessert experience that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe!
Pin this recipe for later and share it with friends who love easy, elegant desserts. Happy baking!
