Creamy Andes Mint Truffles

These Creamy Andes Mint Chocolate Truffles are my favorite festive treat when I want something rich but refreshing. They strike the perfect balance between smooth chocolate and cool mint and always impress guests without much fuss.

I whipped these up for a last-minute holiday gathering and they quickly became the star of the dessert table. The combination of cream cheese and chopped Andes mints makes the filling silky yet bright.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces softened cream cheese: for a creamy base make sure it is fully softened to avoid lumps
• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips: the main chocolate flavor choose good quality chips for best taste and smooth melting
• 1/4 cup chopped Andes mints: finely chopped so they melt into the chocolate adding cool minty bursts
• 2 cups powdered sugar: for sweetness and structure sifted if possible to avoid clumps
• 1 teaspoon peppermint essence: use pure peppermint for authentic flavor do not substitute with artificial mint flavors
• 1 package chocolate melting wafers: smooth coating that hardens nicely ideal for dipping
• 1/2 cup chopped Andes mints: for topping adds a crunchy texture and extra minty bite
• 1 cup white chocolate melting wafers: colored green for decoration this adds festive color to your truffles

Instructions

Prepare The Cream Cheese Mixture:

In a large bowl combine the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. Add the peppermint essence. Mix using an electric mixer until completely smooth and creamy. This takes the edge off the cream cheese tang and creates your sweet filling base.

Melt The Chocolate And Mint:

Place the semisweet chocolate chips and the finely chopped Andes mints in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at half power in 30-second intervals stirring thoroughly between bursts. Continue until the mixture is completely melted and smooth with no lumps. This gentle melting helps the chocolate stay silky.

Combine Mixture And Chill:

Pour the melted chocolate and mint mixture into the cream cheese bowl. Beat everything together until fully incorporated and creamy. Transfer the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap and shape it into a log about 2 inches thick. Refrigerate for 45 minutes to firm up so it can be shaped.

Shape The Truffles:

Once chilled and firm roll the mixture into one-inch balls. Work quickly so the warmth of your hands does not soften the mixture too much. Place each ball on parchment paper so they do not stick.

Coat With Chocolate:

Melt the chocolate melting wafers in the microwave in short bursts stirring until smooth. Dip each truffle into the melted chocolate covering it completely. Let excess chocolate drip off then place back on parchment. Before the coating sets sprinkle with the chopped Andes mints for extra crunch.

Decorate With White Chocolate:

Melt the green colored white chocolate wafers gently. Use a small spoon or piping bag to drizzle the green chocolate over the dipped truffles. Let this set completely for a festive look and contrast.

My favorite part of this recipe is how the Andes mints melt into the chocolate creating layers of mint flavor rather than just a simple mint aftertaste. This reminds me of the holiday seasons growing up when my family shared similar treats around the fireplace.

Storage Tips

Keep the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they stay fresh for up to seven days. If you want to store longer wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Ingredient Swaps

You can swap semisweet chocolate chips for bittersweet if you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor. Cream cheese can be replaced with mascarpone for an even richer texture. If Andes mints are not available crushed peppermint candy can be a decent alternative but the flavor profile will be slightly different.

Serving Ideas

Serve these truffles chilled alongside a cup of coffee or hot cocoa. They also pair beautifully with a glass of dessert wine. Garnishing your serving plate with fresh mint leaves adds a nice touch without overpowering.

These truffles are as beautiful as they are delicious and perfect to gift or keep as a treat for yourself.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What type of chocolate works best for melting?

Using semisweet chocolate chips and melting wafers ensures smooth coating and rich flavor. Melt in short intervals to avoid burning.

→ How do I prevent the truffles from being too soft?

Refrigerate the mixed filling for at least 45 minutes before shaping. Also, chill coated truffles to set the chocolate firmly.

→ Can I substitute cream cheese with another ingredient?

Cream cheese provides smoothness and slight tang; mascarpone or softened butter may be used but will alter texture and flavor.

→ What is the best way to incorporate Andes mints flavor?

Crushing Andes mints into the melted chocolate mix and sprinkling chopped pieces on top delivers refreshing mint flavor and texture.

→ How should I store the finished truffles?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent chocolate from melting or blooming.