Christmas Truffles Recipe from John Lewis Cook

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John Lewis has everything you need to make these delicious homemade Christmas truffles look extra special.

We tested the Christmas Truffles recipe from the John Lewis Christmas Cook Edition. This classic French-style truffle recipe is by Great British Bake Off champion Edd Kimber and is ideal for gifting or enjoying at home over the holidays.

Find more edible gift ideas in seasonal recipe collections and gift guides.

Christmas Truffles Ingredients

These spiced Christmas chocolate truffles are simple to make and pack plenty of festive flavour.

Cook’s note – makes around 50 little Christmas truffles

  • 300g dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa solids)
  • 300ml whipping cream
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon mixed spice
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
  • Cocoa powder for dusting

How To Make Christmas Truffles

This truffle recipe is straightforward and forgiving, perfect for bakers of all levels.

Method — easy-to-follow steps for rich chocolate truffles

  • Line a 20cm tin with cling film or parchment paper so the ganache is easy to remove.
  • Chop the dark chocolate into small, even pieces and place them in a heatproof bowl.
  • In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the whipping cream with the cinnamon, ground ginger, mixed spice and cardamom. Bring just to a gentle boil while whisking to dissolve the spices and prevent scalding.
  • Pour the hot spiced cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for a minute to soften the chocolate.
  • Stir the mixture gently until the chocolate has fully melted and the ganache is glossy and smooth. If any lumps remain, a short blast with a hand blender will smooth it out, or reheat briefly over a bowl of hot water while stirring.
  • Pour the ganache into the prepared tin and smooth the surface with a spatula. Allow to cool at room temperature for about an hour, then transfer to the fridge until set and firm — usually a few hours or overnight for best slicing.
  • To portion the truffles, lift the ganache from the tin using the cling film, peel it away and slice with a thin, very sharp knife. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat edges. Alternatively, scoop with a melon baller for round truffles.
  • Roll or dust each piece in cocoa powder to finish. For a festive touch, roll some in chopped toasted nuts, desiccated coconut or edible glitter suitable for food use.
  • Store the truffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. For longer storage, truffles freeze well for up to three months — defrost overnight in the fridge before serving.

Explore more easy dessert recipes and festive treats for seasonal entertaining.

How To Gift Wrap Homemade Christmas Truffles

Presentation matters — simple packaging makes homemade truffles feel like a luxury gift.

We used Kilner jars and a “Made with Love” treat kit to package our truffles. Small cellophane bags, festive twine and gift tags are all you need to turn these truffles into thoughtful presents for friends, neighbours or hosts.

Ideas for wrapping:

  • Fill mini mason jars or tin boxes with layers of parchment to separate truffles and add a ribbon and a handwritten tag.
  • Use small treat bags or cello bags tied with twine and a branded gift tag for a rustic look.
  • Line a small gift box with tissue or baking paper, place truffles inside and finish with a sticker or wax seal for a polished touch.

For inspiration and seasonal cooking ideas, John Lewis’s Christmas Cook Edition contains a range of recipes and entertaining tips. It’s a handy resource if you’re planning multiple edible gifts or party menus.

Delicious Christmas Recipes That Are Perfect As Gifts

  • Christmas Bark
  • Salted Pistachio Rocky Roads
  • Orange and Cranberry Rocky Roads

Need Some Family Meal Ideas?

If you’re planning meals around the festive season, consider a simple meal plan to balance busy days and celebrations. A short, repeatable menu with a few special recipes and easy midweek options keeps things manageable — and leaves time for baking and wrapping homemade gifts.

Disclaimer: John Lewis provided the equipment and some ingredients for these truffles. For details of the disclosure policy, please refer to the original source’s disclosure information.