If you are looking for an easy yet impressive dessert, heart-shaped Nutella truffles for a sweet Valentine’s Day are the perfect treat. These no-bake truffles are rich, creamy, and full of chocolate-hazelnut flavor, all wrapped up in an adorable heart shape that feels made for celebrating love. They are simple enough for beginners, but elegant enough for gifting, parties, or a romantic dessert table.
This recipe is especially great for Valentine’s Day because it requires no oven time, uses just a handful of ingredients, and can be made ahead. Whether you are surprising a partner, baking with kids, or assembling homemade gifts, these truffles deliver big flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love These Heart-Shaped Nutella Truffles
There are so many reasons these truffles are a Valentine’s Day favorite.
First, they are no-bake, which means less stress and faster results. Everything comes together in one bowl, and chilling does the rest of the work.
Second, the flavor is rich and indulgent. Nutella provides a smooth chocolate-hazelnut base that tastes luxurious without being overly sweet.
Third, they are visually charming. The heart shape instantly makes them feel festive and special, even without elaborate decoration.
Finally, they are perfect for gifting. These truffles hold their shape well, store nicely, and look beautiful in boxes or treat bags.
Ingredients for Heart-Shaped Nutella Truffles
All ingredient amounts are listed in US units.
Truffle Filling
- 1 cup Nutella hazelnut spread
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 and 1 half cups crushed vanilla wafer cookies or chocolate sandwich cookies
Chocolate Coating
- 8 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
Optional Decorations
- Valentine sprinkles
- Drizzled white chocolate
- Edible glitter or sanding sugar
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Nutella
Nutella provides both sweetness and structure. Other chocolate-hazelnut spreads may work, but texture and sweetness can vary.
Cream cheese
This helps bind the truffles and adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness. Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture.
Cookies
Vanilla wafers give a classic truffle texture, while chocolate cookies create a deeper cocoa flavor. Graham crackers also work well.
Chocolate coating
Semi-sweet chocolate keeps the truffles from being too sweet. Dark chocolate works beautifully for a more intense flavor. White chocolate can be used for a lighter look.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Truffle Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine Nutella and softened cream cheese. Mix until smooth and fully blended.
Add the crushed cookies and stir until the mixture forms a thick, uniform dough.
Step 2: Chill the Mixture
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for about 20 to 30 minutes, or until the mixture is firm enough to handle easily.
Step 3: Shape the Hearts
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture for each truffle. Roll gently into a ball, then lightly press and shape into a heart using your fingers.
Place shaped truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Freeze Briefly
Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer for 10 to 15 minutes. This helps the hearts hold their shape during dipping.
Step 5: Melt the Chocolate
Melt the chopped chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 20 to 30 second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
Step 6: Dip the Truffles
Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each heart into the melted chocolate, coating it fully. Let excess chocolate drip off before placing it back on the parchment paper.
Add sprinkles or decorations before the chocolate sets.
Step 7: Set and Serve
Allow the truffles to set at room temperature or refrigerate until the chocolate coating is firm. Serve chilled or slightly softened.
Pro Tips for Success
- Chill the mixture well before shaping for cleaner hearts.
- Use gel gloves or slightly damp hands to prevent sticking.
- Keep truffles cold before dipping to maintain shape.
- Tap the fork gently to remove excess chocolate for a smooth finish.
- Decorate immediately after dipping so toppings stick properly.
Flavor Variations
Dark chocolate Nutella truffles
Use dark chocolate for both the filling cookies and coating for a richer, less sweet version.
White chocolate hearts
Dip truffles in melted white chocolate and decorate with pink or red sprinkles.
Crunchy Nutella truffles
Mix in finely chopped hazelnuts or crisp rice cereal for added texture.
Mocha Nutella truffles
Add 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder to the filling for a coffee-chocolate twist.
Strawberry Valentine truffles
Use strawberry-flavored cookies and decorate with pink chocolate drizzle.
Serving Suggestions
Arrange these heart-shaped Nutella truffles on a decorative platter for Valentine’s Day parties. They pair beautifully with coffee, hot cocoa, or sparkling juice.
For gifting, place truffles in mini cupcake liners and package them in small boxes or clear bags tied with ribbon. They also make a lovely addition to dessert boards alongside fruit, cookies, and chocolates.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Refrigeration
Store truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing
Freeze truffles in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Room temperature
These truffles can sit out for about 1 hour, depending on room temperature, before softening too much.
Nutrition Facts (Per Truffle)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~150 |
| Protein | ~2 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~15 g |
| Fat | ~9 g |
| Fiber | ~1 g |
| Sodium | ~60 mg |
Values are estimates and will vary based on ingredients used.
FAQ About Heart-Shaped Nutella Truffles
Can I make these truffles ahead of time?
Yes, these truffles are ideal for making ahead. Prepare them up to 3 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve or gift.
Why won’t my truffles hold their shape?
If the mixture is too soft, it needs more chilling time. Make sure the truffles are cold before dipping them in chocolate.
Can I make these without cream cheese?
Cream cheese helps bind the mixture, but mascarpone or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative can be used with similar results.
Do I need special molds?
No molds are required. The heart shape can be formed easily by hand, making this recipe very accessible.
Are these safe for kids to help make?
Absolutely. Kids can help mix, shape, and decorate the truffles, making this a fun Valentine’s Day activity.
Heart-Shaped Nutella Truffles
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- spatula or spoon
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- microwave-safe bowl
Ingredients
- 1 cup Nutella hazelnut spread
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1.5 cups crushed vanilla wafer cookies or chocolate sandwich cookies
- 8 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
- Valentine sprinkles (optional)
- white chocolate drizzle (optional)
- edible glitter or sanding sugar (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix the Nutella and softened cream cheese until smooth and fully combined. Stir in the crushed cookies until a thick dough forms.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for 20 to 30 minutes, until firm enough to shape.
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture, roll into a ball, then gently shape into a heart. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Freeze the shaped truffles for 10 to 15 minutes to help them hold their shape.
- Melt the chopped chocolate in the microwave in 20 to 30 second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
- Dip each heart-shaped truffle into the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off. Return to parchment and add decorations before the chocolate sets.
- Let the truffles set at room temperature or refrigerate until the coating is firm. Serve chilled or slightly softened.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
These heart-shaped Nutella truffles for a sweet Valentine’s Day are the perfect blend of simplicity, elegance, and indulgence. With rich chocolate flavor, adorable presentation, and easy no-bake preparation, they are a wonderful way to show love through homemade treats. Once you make them, they are sure to become a Valentine’s Day tradition you look forward to every year.
