Save to Pinterest These cinnamon ginger ricotta truffles are my favorite sweet shortcut when I want an elegant dessert without turning on the oven. Each bite is creamy and warmly spiced, coated in chocolate, and always vanishes fast at family gatherings.
I whipped up these truffles for a friend's potluck the first time and ended up scribbling the recipe down on napkins for half the guests. Now they show up at every holiday and picnic I host.
Ingredients
- Ricotta cheese: Brings a creamy base and subtle richness Make sure to use a well-drained ricotta so the mixture is thick and not watery
- Powdered sugar: Melts perfectly into the mixture for sweetness and helps bind everything together Choose one without added starch if possible for pure taste
- Almond meal or finely ground blanched almonds: Gives that luscious nutty texture and holds the truffles together Look for a fresh pack with a sweet almond aroma and no bitterness
- Ground cinnamon: Infuses the truffles with gentle warmth Freshly bought or stored in an airtight container for the boldest flavor
- Ground ginger: Adds zingy brightness that balances the sweetness Reach for a fresh spice jar for the best punch
- Fine sea salt: Lifts all the flavors and keeps the sweetness from overwhelming the palate A tiny pinch is all you need
- Dark chocolate for coating: Creates a crisp shell that contrasts with the soft inside Choose a bar or chips with at least 60 percent cocoa—look for a shiny snap and deep aroma
- Coconut oil: Makes the chocolate a little smoother and glossier if you like
- Crystallized ginger for garnish: Finely chopped for extra spicy sparkle on top
- Ground cinnamon for garnish: A classic finishing touch making the truffles look and smell festive
Instructions
- Line the Tray:
- Place a piece of parchment paper on your baking sheet so the truffles do not stick during chilling
- Mix the Base:
- In a medium bowl combine the well-drained ricotta cheese powdered sugar almond meal cinnamon ground ginger and salt Mix extremely well until completely smooth Take your time here and use the back of a spoon to press out any lumps ensuring a creamy even mixture
- Chill the Mixture:
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least twenty to thirty minutes This rest time helps the flavors meld and makes the mixture easier to shape
- Shape the Truffles:
- Scoop out small tablespoon-sized amounts using a cookie scoop or teaspoon Roll each portion gently between your palms to form round balls and line them up on your prepped tray Dampening your hands slightly can help prevent sticking
- Freeze to Firm:
- Slide the tray into the freezer for fifteen to twenty minutes This step is crucial so the truffles hold their shape when dipped in chocolate later
- Melt the Chocolate:
- While the truffles chill set up a double boiler or use a microwave-safe bowl Slowly melt the dark chocolate with coconut oil if you are using it Stir every thirty seconds to get a glossy smooth chocolate bath without scorching
- Dip and Coat:
- Drop one chilled truffle into the melted chocolate Use a fork to roll it around and coat evenly Let the chocolate drip off before transferring each truffle back to the tray
- Add Garnish:
- While the chocolate is still shiny sprinkle on bits of crystallized ginger or a little cinnamon This must be done right away for the toppings to stick
- Chill to Set:
- Return the tray to the refrigerator and chill at least fifteen minutes The chocolate hardens and ensures clean bites when you serve
- Serve and Enjoy:
- The truffles can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature for slightly softer centers
Save to Pinterest The aroma of freshly ground ginger while mixing always reminds me of winter holidays around my grandmother's kitchen When we make these together she always sneaks a pinch of extra cinnamon and the warmth fills the whole house
Storage Tips
After the chocolate has fully set layer truffles between sheets of parchment in an airtight container Refrigerate as the creamy filling can soften at room temperature after a couple of hours These truffles also freeze beautifully for up to two months Defrost in the fridge so the chocolate shell does not crack
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need a nut-free version oat flour or very finely crushed vanilla wafers work in place of almond meal To make this dairy-free you can try a thick plant-based ricotta and dark chocolate with no milk solids Any type of chocolate works for coating if you are looking for a sweeter treat
Serving Suggestions
Pile truffles onto a pretty plate or tiered stand and dust with extra cinnamon for dramatic effect They are lovely alongside coffee or spiced tea For a dessert platter offer them with fruit or salted caramel bites so guests can mix and match
Cultural and Historical Notes
Blending ricotta into truffles is a playful take on classic Italian and French desserts Ricotta's creamy yet clean flavor makes it popular for cheesecakes and cannoli so bringing it to chocolate truffles adds a fun fusion twist Adding aromatic spices like cinnamon and ginger gives these truffles a familiar holiday warmth that spans many cultures
Seasonal Adaptations
For autumn use pumpkin spice mix instead of the cinnamon and ginger In summer opt for fresh citrus zest plus vanilla in the base Winter holidays call for a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a festive note
Success Stories
When I first brought these to a bake sale people thought they were made by a fancy chocolatier The batch was gone in fifteen minutes Kids love to help roll and dip them so it is a perfect recipe for little helpers
Freezer Meal Conversion
Make the truffles up to the dipping stage and freeze the undipped balls in a single layer Once solid transfer to a bag or container When ready to serve thaw overnight and dip in warm chocolate for fresh truffles in minutes
Save to Pinterest Enjoy these truffles chilled or at room temperature with your favorite coffee They are sure to impress at any gathering with minimal effort
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make these nut-free?
Yes, substitute almond meal with oat flour or finely crushed vanilla wafers for a nut-free variation.
- → How should ricotta be prepared?
Drain ricotta well before use to prevent excess moisture and ensure firm, creamy truffles.
- → What chocolate works best for coating?
Use dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa for a rich flavor, or swap for milk or white chocolate to suit your taste.
- → How do I store these truffles?
Store finished truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep well for up to 5 days.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all main ingredients are vegetarian-friendly. Always check chocolate packaging for hidden animal products.
- → Can I add extra toppings?
Garnish with crystallized ginger, ground cinnamon, or even chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.