No-Bake Mascarpone Cheese Lemon Truffles (No White Chocolate!)

Mascarpone Lemon Truffles are sweet, no-bake treats, a fresh, pleasantly citrusy version of the classic dark chocolate truffles, ideal for bringing to the table as a happy ending to a meal during a dinner with guests or serving as a snack with a fruit infusion.

Simple and super quick, they can be prepared in just a few minutes and are perfect for those who have little time to dedicate to cooking, but who don't want to give up surprising their guests with a refined and very tasty dessert.

To make them at home, all you have to do is roughly break the biscuits, then add the chopped almonds and the mascarpone, already reduced to a cream with the powdered sugar, and then flavor everything with the juice and grated zest of an untreated lemon. Once you have shaped lots of truffles of about 10g each with your hands, all you have to do is pass them in flaked coconut, let them harden in the fridge for half an hour and then serve them very cold for a special occasion or a party buffet.

What Are No Bake Lemon Truffles?

No-bake lemon truffles are bite-sized treats that combine the zesty brightness of lemon with a smooth, creamy texture, making them a popular dessert for any occasion. Originating in Italy, these delightful confections are inspired by the country’s love for simple yet indulgent desserts that showcase fresh, natural flavors. The base ingredients typically include crumbled cookies or biscuits, such as ladyfingers or digestive biscuits, mixed with condensed milk, cream cheese, or mascarpone for richness, and infused with lemon juice and zest for a tangy kick.

Their no-bake preparation makes them an easy and versatile treat, perfect for warm weather when turning on the oven is less appealing. Over time, variations of lemon truffles have emerged, including versions coated in shredded coconut, white chocolate, or crushed nuts for added texture and flavor. Some recipes incorporate fillings like lemon curd or add spices such as cardamom or ginger for a unique twist.

Pro Tips for The Best No Bake Lemon Truffles

• Opt for fresh, unwaxed lemons to ensure a vibrant, natural flavor. The zest and juice are key to achieving the perfect tangy taste.
• Use plain, high-quality biscuits (like digestive biscuits or ladyfingers) as they form the base of the truffle. Avoid overly sweet or flavored ones to let the lemon shine.
• When rolling the truffles, cool your hands by rinsing them in cold water to prevent the mixture from sticking or melting.
• Place the truffles on parchment paper while setting to prevent them from sticking to the surface.
• These truffles taste best when served cold, as the flavors are more pronounced and refreshing.

Can I Swap Mascarpone Cheese for Anything Else?

Of course! Cream cheese is the best alternative, as it offers a similar richness, though it has a slightly tangier taste. For a lighter option, Greek yogurt can work, but you'll need to strain it to remove excess liquid. Alternatively, ricotta cheese (well-drained and blended for smoothness) or even coconut cream can be used to give the truffles a unique twist.

Can I Add Anything Else to These Truffles?

You can enhance no-bake lemon truffles by adding ingredients like finely shredded coconut for texture, white chocolate chips for extra sweetness, or crushed nuts (e.g., pistachios or almonds) for crunch. A pinch of spices like cardamom or ginger can add warmth, while a small dollop of lemon curd inside creates a delightful surprise. For a gourmet twist, you can also mix in a splash of limoncello or vanilla extract to deepen the flavor profile.

Can I Make Them Vegan?

You sure can! Use coconut cream or vegan cream cheese in place of mascarpone. For the biscuit base, choose vegan-friendly cookies. Ensure any coatings, like chocolate or shredded coconut, are also vegan, and you’ll have delicious, plant-based lemon truffles!

Do They Need to Be Refrigerated?

Yes, no-bake lemon truffles need to be refrigerated to maintain their shape and texture. The creamy ingredients, like mascarpone or cream cheese, require a cool environment to stay firm. Refrigerate the truffles for at least 1-2 hours before serving and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. Serve them chilled for the best flavor and consistency!

Can I Make Them Ahead of Time?

Yes! These truffles can be made a day in advance, giving the flavors time to meld beautifully. Perfect for parties or gatherings!

Can I Freeze Them?

Yes! Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving to retain their texture and flavor.

How to Store No Bake Lemon Truffles

Lemon truffles can be stored in the fridge, in an airtight container, for 2-3 days maximum.

How to Make No Bake Lemon Truffles

Collect the mascarpone cheese with the powdered sugar in a bowl.

In a separate bowl, roughly crumble the biscuits with your hands.

Add the chopped almonds to the crumbled biscuits.

Incorporate the mascarpone cheese.

Flavor with the grated zest of the lemons and then add 25ml of filtered juice.

Mix well with a spatula.

Take small portions of about 10 grams each, shape the truffles and, as they are ready, arrange them on a serving dish: if the mixture is too soft and difficult to work with, we suggest you let it firm up in the fridge for about 20 minutes.

Then, roll the truffles in the grated coconut and transfer them to the fridge for half an hour.

Garnish the lemon truffles with the remaining grated zest of a lemon. Enjoy!