Cream Cheese and Berry-Filled Truffles

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 1 cup (150g) fresh or frozen mixed berries (e.g., raspberries, strawberries, blueberries)
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water

For the Cream Cheese Mixture:

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (125g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Coating:

• White chocolate or candy melts
• Sprinkles or crushed nuts

Instructions:

Make the Berry Filling:

1. Cook the Berries:
   • In a small saucepan, combine the berries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the berries break down and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Thicken the Filling:
   • In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Add the slurry to the berry mixture and stir constantly until the mixture thickens, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.

Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:

1. Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the Powdered Sugar and Vanilla:
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined and smooth.

Assemble the Truffles:

1. Form the Truffles:
   • Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, form small balls of the cream cheese mixture. Make an indentation in the center of each ball and add a small amount of the cooled berry filling. Carefully seal the cream cheese mixture around the filling and roll into smooth balls. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Chill:
   • Refrigerate the truffles for at least 1 hour to firm up.

Coat the Truffles:

1. Melt the Coating:
   • In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate or candy melts according to the package instructions.
2. Dip the Truffles:
   • Using a fork or a dipping tool, dip each truffle into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the dipped truffles back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Decorate:
   • While the coating is still wet, sprinkle the truffles with sprinkles or crushed nuts. Allow the coating to set completely.

Serve:

1. Chill Again:
   • Once the coating is set, transfer the truffles to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
2. Enjoy:
   • Enjoy these delightful cream cheese and berry-filled truffles as a sweet treat or dessert!

These truffles are perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply as a delicious homemade dessert. Enjoy!