Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate

These Cranberry Pistachio White Chocolate Truffles are a showstopper at holiday gatherings and make an unforgettable homemade gift any time you want to share something sweet. Imagine creamy white chocolate blended with buttery richness studded with tangy cranberries and crunchy pistachios and rolled in snowy powdered sugar for the perfect festive bite. If you need an easy yet elegant winter dessert that never fails to impress, this is the recipe you want.

I remember the first time I made these for a cookie exchange every single truffle disappeared before the night was over and friends still ask for them each December

Ingredients

• White chocolate: Chopped into small pieces for smooth texture and richness. Choose a good quality white chocolate bar and avoid chips for best results
• Unsalted butter: Brings creaminess and helps the truffles hold together. Use fresh butter
• Heavy cream: Adds luscious texture and helps meld everything together. Go for real heavy cream not light versions
• Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness
• Orange or vanilla extract: For extra fragrance if you want a hint of citrus freshness
• Finely chopped dried cranberries: Bring sweet tart flavor and pretty color. Look for cranberries that are soft and plump not too dry
• Finely chopped toasted pistachio: Adds crunch and a nutty edge. Lightly toast before chopping for the fullest flavor and brightest green
• Powdered sugar: For rolling the truffles gives a snowy holiday look. Make sure it is fresh and lump free

Instructions

Melt the Butter and Cream:

In a small saucepan over low medium heat melt the unsalted butter then add heavy cream and stir just to combine. The mixture should not come to a boil just gently warm

Add Flavorings:

Stir in a pinch of salt and orange or vanilla extract if using then set this mixture aside to cool slightly. It should be just lukewarm

Melt White Chocolate:

Finely chop white chocolate for even melting. Place it in a double boiler over simmering water. Stir continuously and gently until the chocolate is completely smooth. It may take a few minutes. Be very careful not to overheat it the chocolate should feel warm but not hot to the touch

Combine Butter Cream with Melted Chocolate:

With a rubber spatula gently stir the lukewarm butter heavy cream mixture into the melted white chocolate. These should be close in temperature for the smoothest truffle base. If one is much hotter or cooler your truffle may seize or separate

Add Cranberries and Pistachio:

Fold in the chopped cranberries and toasted pistachios ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The pops of red and green really make these look special

Chill the Mixture:

Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the mixture to prevent a skin from forming. Let it sit at room temperature for one hour then transfer to the refrigerator for two to three hours or until very firm

Form the Truffles:

Once the base is firm use a melon baller or small spoon to scoop equal portions. Roll quickly between your hands into one inch balls. It helps to wipe your hands clean between each truffle so they stay neat

Coat in Powdered Sugar:

Roll each truffle generously in powdered sugar until fully coated giving them that classic snowball look

Store or Serve:

Arrange the finished truffles in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for longer storage

I am always amazed how those pops of tart cranberry keep the truffles from being too sweet. My kids love rolling them in sugar and the kitchen always turns into a sweet winter wonderland whenever we make these together

Storage Tips

Keep these truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their shape and texture. They stay fresh for up to one week. Stack them with parchment paper between layers if you are storing a lot. You can freeze them for longer just let them thaw in the fridge for the best creamy consistency

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have pistachios chopped almonds or pecans work beautifully. Or try dried cherries or apricots in place of cranberries. For extra decadence a mix of orange and vanilla extract gives a lovely layered aroma. Dairy free white chocolate and plant based butter cream can be used for a vegan version but be sure to chill well

Serving Suggestions

Pile the truffles on a pretty platter with a dusting of extra powdered sugar for a snowy effect. They make stunning edible gifts in a holiday tin or box. I like them with a cup of coffee or a small glass of Prosecco. Their bite size nature makes them perfect for dessert boards

Cultural Context

These truffles take their cues from European holiday candies like French snowballs but use classic American ingredients. Cranberries and pistachios echo the colors of the season making them traditional and fresh at once. Serving them at Christmas has become a tradition in my family for years

Seasonal Adaptations

Use freeze dried raspberry for another summer twist. Swap cranberries for chopped dried apricots if you want a golden warm look. Roll truffles in toasted coconut for a tropical spin

Success Stories

Friends who thought they did not like white chocolate could not stop eating these after one taste. A new mom in my circle loved that she could freeze half the batch for late night treats. And my neighbor brings them to work potlucks where they are always the first dessert gone

Freezer Meal Conversion

To freeze line a baking sheet with parchment and arrange the truffles in a single layer. Freeze until solid then transfer to a zip top bag or airtight container. Best texture is enjoyed if you let them thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Powdered sugar coating may need a touch up

Handmade truffles like these always feel like a special treat. The snowy coating and bright festive flavors make them irresistible year after year

Common Recipe Questions

→ What makes white chocolate truffles smooth?

Gently melting the white chocolate and combining it with warmed butter and cream ensures a silky, creamy center. Avoid overheating the chocolate to prevent graininess.

→ Can I use different nuts or fruits?

Yes, you can swap pistachios for almonds or hazelnuts and dried cranberries for cherries or apricots to customize flavors and texture.

→ Why roll the truffles in powdered sugar?

Powdered sugar not only adds sweetness, but also gives the truffles a snowy finish and prevents sticking.

→ How should I store these truffles?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to a month for longer storage.

→ Can these be made in advance?

Yes, prepare and refrigerate or freeze in advance so the treats are ready for holiday gatherings and gifting occasions.