Thandai Truffles

// Experience the joy of Holi with our fusion Thandai Truffles recipe - where traditional flavors meet chocolate in a delightful dessert.



Thandai Truffles are No-Cook Indian Fusion treats, made using thandai masala powder, white chocolate, and rose flavorings. These Thandai Truffles are a divine fusion of traditional Indian flavors with the rich and creamy decadence of luscious white chocolate.

Inspired by the Indian Thandai flavors, these exquisite Thandai Truffles are the perfect festive treat for Holi or any other celebration.

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Close-up of white chocolate Thandai truffles topped with crushed pistachios and dried rose petals on a ceramic plate.

Made using just 4 main ingredients, this no-cook truffle recipe requires only 20 minutes of your time.

About Thandai Truffles

Thandai Truffles are a Holi Inspired Twist on Classic Chocolate Truffles. No-cook Indian truffles have divine flavors, heavenly taste, rich, nutty, melt-in-mouth texture. Plus, they are egg-free, vegetarian, and gluten-free.

Each bite of these truffles is a gourmet experience that is both luxurious and nostalgically Indian. This truffle recipe is like blending this traditional Holi drink’s essence with the smoothness of white chocolate in an aromatic and flavorful bite-sized dessert.

Whether you are a fan of Indian sweets, enjoy a thandai dessert**,** or a lover of truffles, this no-cook, easy-to-make dessert is sure to impress your taste buds.

These truffles are not just a treat for the palate but a celebration of Holi, the festival of colors, encapsulated in a bite-sized delight.

These Indian fusion truffles are a classic example of how you can make a traditional Indian sweet with a modern twist, that looks irresistible and tastes exotic.

Elegant white bowl filled with Thandai truffles garnished with pistachio and rose petals on a silver tray with scattered ingredients.

As the color festival of Holi approaches, the quest begins for making something perfectly Holi-ish and festive. Isn’t it?

And there comes the solution in the form of bite-sized chocolate truffles which are crafted with aromatic homemade thandai powder, rose flavorings, and blanketed in luscious white chocolate.

This fusion truffle recipe is a celebration of culture, tradition, and innovation and is a must-have treat for the Holi festival.

When it comes to Thandai flavored desserts and drinks, there are endless options such as thandai as a drink itself, thandai milkshake, thandai shrikhand, thandai kulfi, thandai cheesecake, thandai frappe, thandai truffles, and many more.

There is something magical about Thandai and the festival of Holi. Thandai is ingrained in Indian culture and is as much a part of Holi as the vibrant colors themselves.

No Holi is celebrated without this quintessential Holi drink, Thandai which is a refreshingly creamy, flavorful, and rich drink made from a blend of nuts, seeds, and aromatic spices mixed into milk.

This chocolate-covered thandai goodness doesn’t require any ghee, mawa, milk powder, or added sugar. Just exotic flavors of thandai mix or masala, whipping cream, and richness of white chocolate is all you need for this festive treat that is bursting with the flavors of Holi.

Let’s dive into the heart of Indian festivities and make this no-cook gem which is a treat for your eyes and taste.

These Thandai Truffles

  • add a splash of color and flavor to festivities

  • are no-cook

  • are easy to prepare

  • need only 4 handy ingredients

  • are ideal for gifting and sharing

  • mingle traditional & modern flavors

  • are vegetarian & gluten-free

  • can also be made vegan

  • are easily customizable

  • are quick yet exotic sweet treats

Ingredient Thandai Truffles

  • Thandai Powder: It is the main ingredient of this Indian truffles recipe. Thandai powder is a blend of spices and nuts used for making a traditional Holi drink ‘Thandai’.

I have used homemade thandai powder for making truffles, but you can also use store-bought thandai masala. Thandai masala is easily available in Asian grocery stores worldwide.

  • White Chocolate: It is used as the base for the truffles, and to give them a creamy texture, and sweetness. White chocolate is also used for coating. You can use both dairy or vegan chocolate.

I have used real white chocolate for making this recipe, but you can also go with dark or milk chocolate. Instead of real chocolate, chocolate chips can also be used here.

  • Heavy Cream: It is added for richness and to give these truffles a melt-in-mouth texture.

  • Flavors: Since it is an Indian-style truffle recipe, I have used rose essence to enhance Indian dessert flavor. You can also use vanilla extract, almond extract, or even mint extract for a refreshing touch.

  • Garnishes: I garnished the truffles with sliced pistachios and dried rose petals. I have also added some crushed dried rose petals to the melted chocolate for delicate flavors and texture. You can choose any of your favorite toppings here.

Thandai truffle cut in half on a wooden board showing a rich, spiced filling, with whole truffles and rose petals in the background.

Variations

Thandai Almond Flour Truffles

To make this almond version of thandai truffles, you need to replace half the amount of thandai mix with almond flour. Also, substitute rose extract for almond extract. The rest of the recipe remains the same.

You can also create badam gulkand truffles by adding a little bit of gulkand to the center.

Coconut Thandai Truffles

Love white chocolate coconut truffles? Then why not transform these truffles into Coconut Thandai Truffles by swapping half of the thandai masala with desiccated coconut.

Dark Chocolate Thandai Truffles

To make the dark chocolate version of these truffles, substitute the white chocolate with the same amount of dark chocolate. You can opt for regular dark chocolate or flavored ones like salted caramel or raspberry.

Raspberry Thandai Truffles

For making a berrylicious version of truffles, you need to replace half of the thandai masala with dried raspberry powder for making the thandai truffle mixture. And simply follow the same recipe to make the truffles.

Finally, you can top these truffles with a mix of dried raspberry powder and thandai mix.

Storage Suggestions

These truffles stay fresh for up to a week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Their good shelf life makes them a lovely make-ahead Holi dessert. For ultimate texture and flavors, it is advised to serve them chilled.

But if you don’t like chilled truffles then let them sit for 10 minutes at room temperature before serving.

Serving Suggestions

You can serve them as an after-meal dessert or a festive treat along with other festive Indian desserts such as bhapa doi, chai truffles, lapsi, Indian milk cake, and dry fruits laddu.

You can also serve them as part of a dessert table along with other truffles like oreo truffles, peanut butter coconut truffle, white chocolate coconut truffles, cream cheese white chocolate truffles.

Anupama’s Tips & Tricks to Make Best Thandai Truffles

  1. Quality Chocolate: Make sure to use high-quality white chocolate for a delicious taste, smooth and creamy texture.

  2. Chilling: Make certain that the truffle mixture is well-chilled before rolling.

  3. Use gloves: To prevent the mixture from being too sticky, it is advised to use gloves.

  4. Smooth Finish: For a smooth finish, roll the truffle balls again after chilling and before dipping into the white chocolate. You can also dip your hands in cold water before rolling the truffles.

  5. Flavors: I have used rose extract for flavoring. Feel free to use any other flavors of your choice. You can add 1 tablespoon of saffron-infused milk to the truffles mixture. You can also add crushed saffron strands to the white chocolate coating. For intense ose flavors, you can even add rose syrup.

  6. Chocolate: I have used white chocolate here, but you can also use dark, milk, bittersweet, or semisweet chocolate. You can also use chocolate chunks or chocolate chips here.

  7. Thandai Flavor: Adjusting the thandai flavor according to your taste preference is doable. So, if you want more thandai flavors, then you can even add 1 cup of thandai masala to this truffles mixture.

Hand picking a Thandai truffle from a wooden board with a collection of truffles, rose petals, and cardamom pods scattered around.

FAQ

Can I make Thandai Truffles vegan?

Yes, you can definitely make a vegan version of these truffles. To make homemade vegan chocolate truffles, simply swap whipped cream with coconut cream. Also, make sure that you are using vegan chocolate for making truffles.

How long can I store Thandai Truffles?

These truffles stay fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator. To store, transfer the truffles to a kitchen-tissue-lined air container and store.

How to Make Thandai Powder at Home

To make thandai powder at home, start by dry roasting almonds, cashews, pistachios, saffron strands, green cardamom pods, melon seeds, fennel seeds, poppy seeds, and black peppercorns in a pan.

Once roasted, allow them to cool. Then, transfer them to a blender, adding dried rose petals, turmeric powder, and cinnamon powder, and blend to achieve a coarse or fine powder.

Your homemade thandai powder is ready. Store this aromatic thandai mix in an airtight container. Enjoy a refreshing thandai anytime by just adding chilled milk, sugar, and ice, or use it in various thandai fusion recipes.

Are Thandai Truffles gluten-free?

Yes, these truffles are naturally gluten free, so they are very well suited for a gluten free diet. So if you’re avoiding gluten, just make sure that the chocolate you are using is gluten free.

Can I freeze Thandai Truffles?

Yes, these truffles are freezable. To freeze, simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet-lined tray and freeze. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you want to serve, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving.


Thandai Truffles (Step-by-step photo instructions)

Prepare the Truffle Mixture:

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the 225 grams of finely chopped white chocolate and whipping cream.
  2. Image of the recipe cooking step-1-1 for Thandai Truffles
  3. Heat in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each burst, until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth. Be careful not to overheat.
  4. Image of the recipe cooking step-1-2 for Thandai Truffles
  5. Stir in the 1/2 cup Thandai powder and a few drops of rose extract. Mix until well combined. Now, add the rest 1/4 cup of Thandai powder and mix until well combined.
  6. Image of the recipe cooking step-1-3 for Thandai Truffles
  7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate until the mixture is firm, about 2 hours.
  8. Image of the recipe cooking step-1-4 for Thandai Truffles

Form the Truffles:

  1. Once firm, use a melon baller or a small spoon to scoop out tiny portions of the truffle mixture.
  2. Image of the recipe cooking step-2-1 for Thandai Truffles
  3. Roll between your palms to form a smooth ball, then roll it in Thandai masala for more flavor and texture.
  4. Image of the recipe cooking step-2-2 for Thandai Truffles
  5. Roll all the truffles and place them on a parchment paper-lined tray. If the mixture becomes too soft to work with, refrigerate it for 30 minutes to firm up again. You can also freeze them for about 10 minutes to make sure they are firm before coating.
  6. Image of the recipe cooking step-2-3 for Thandai Truffles

Prepare the Chocolate Coating:

  1. Melt the remaining 250 grams of white chocolate in a bowl, using the same microwave method.
  2. Image of the recipe cooking step-3-1 for Thandai Truffles
  3. Once melted, stir in a few drops of rose extract. Also, add some crushed dried rose petals for more flavor and texture.
  4. Image of the recipe cooking step-3-2 for Thandai Truffles
  5. Mix well until combined. Let the chocolate cool slightly but remain liquid for coating.
  6. Image of the recipe cooking step-3-3 for Thandai Truffles

Coat the Truffles:

  1. Roll each truffle between your palms for a smooth finish.
  2. Image of the recipe cooking step-4-1 for Thandai Truffles
  3. Using a spoon or fork, dip each truffle into the melted chocolate, ensuring that each truffle is entirely coated.
  4. Image of the recipe cooking step-4-2 for Thandai Truffles
  5. Tap off the excess chocolate, then place the coated truffles on the parchment paper.
  6. Image of the recipe cooking step-4-3 for Thandai Truffles
  7. While the coating is still wet, sprinkle dried rose petals or sliced pistachios on top for garnish.
  8. Image of the recipe cooking step-4-4 for Thandai Truffles

Set and Serve:

  1. Allow the truffles to set at room temperature or refrigerate them for 15-20 minutes for a faster setting.
  2. Image of the recipe cooking step-5-1 for Thandai Truffles
  3. Once the chocolate coating has hardened, the truffles are ready to be served.
  4. Image of the recipe cooking step-5-2 for Thandai Truffles
  5. Remove the excess chocolate.
  6. Image of the recipe cooking step-5-3 for Thandai Truffles
  7. Enjoy your Thandai Truffles as a special treat for Holi or any festive occasion. These stunningly delicious desserts would surely impress your guests.
  8. Image of the recipe cooking step-5-4 for Thandai Truffles

Recipe Card


Thandai Truffles [Recipe]

Recipe Image
Experience the joy of Holi with our fusion Thandai Truffles recipe - where traditional flavors meet chocolate in a delightful dessert.
★★★★★
(Rating: 5 from 6 reviews)

Prep time 🕐 Cook time 🕐 Total time 🕐
15 mins
Category ☶ Cuisine ♨ Serves ☺
Desserts Indian 14 truffles
Nutrition Info ⊛ Serving size ⊚
235 calories 1

INGREDIENTS

For No-cook Thandai Truffles
  • 225 grams white chocolate, finely chopped
  • 4 tablespoons of whipping cream
  • 3/4 cup thandai powder
  • A few drops of rose extract
For Chocolate Coating
  • 250 grams white chocolate, finely chopped
  • A few drops of rose extract
  • 1 tablespoon of crushed dried rose petals
  • Dried rose petals, for garnishing
  • Sliced pistachios, for garnishing

INSTRUCTIONS:

Prepare the Truffle Mixture:
  1. In a medium bowl, combine the 225 grams of finely chopped white chocolate and whipping cream.
  2. Heat in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each burst, until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth. Be careful not to overheat.
  3. Stir in the 1/2 cup Thandai powder and a few drops of rose extract. Mix until well combined. Now, add the rest 1/4 cup of Thandai powder and mix until well combined.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate until the mixture is firm, about 2 hours.
Form the Truffles:
  1. Once firm, use a melon baller or a small spoon to scoop out tiny portions of the truffle mixture.
  2. Roll between your palms to form a smooth ball, then roll it in Thandai masala for more flavor and texture.
  3. Roll all the truffles and place them on a parchment paper-lined tray. If the mixture becomes too soft to work with, refrigerate it for 30 minutes to firm up again. You can also freeze them for about 10 minutes to make sure they are firm before coating.
Prepare the Chocolate Coating:
  1. Melt the remaining 250 grams of white chocolate in a bowl, using the same microwave method.
  2. Once melted, stir in a few drops of rose extract. Also, add some crushed dried rose petals for more flavor and texture.
  3. Mix well until combined. Let the chocolate cool slightly but remain liquid for coating.
Coat the Truffles:
  1. Roll each truffle between your palms for a smooth finish.
  2. Using a spoon or fork, dip each truffle into the melted chocolate, ensuring that each truffle is entirely coated.
  3. Tap off the excess chocolate, then place the coated truffles on the parchment paper.
  4. While the coating is still wet, sprinkle dried rose petals or sliced pistachios on top for garnish.
Set and Serve:
  1. Allow the truffles to set at room temperature or refrigerate them for 15-20 minutes for a faster setting.
  2. Once the chocolate coating has hardened, the truffles are ready to be served.
  3. Remove the excess chocolate.
  4. Enjoy your Thandai Truffles as a special treat for Holi or any festive occasion. These stunningly delicious desserts would surely impress your guests.

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NOTES:

  1. Make sure to use high-quality white chocolate for a delicious taste, smooth and creamy texture.
  2. Make certain that the truffle mixture is well-chilled before rolling.
  3. To prevent the mixture from being too sticky, it is advised to use gloves.


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