The truffle was first created in France in the early 20th century and has since become a popular dessert around the world. This version of these decadent chocolate bites are the hit of any celebration or get-together!
Beat the cream cheese at medium speed with an electric mixer until incoporated and fluffy. Add the melted chocolate and beat until smooth. Stir in the vanilla cookie crumbs and the preserves. Cover and refrigerate 2 hours or until firm
Roll mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a baking sheet lined with wax paper. Refrigerate for 1 hour.
Melt the almond bark in the microwave by heating for 3 to 4 minutes stirring at 1-minute intervals.
Submerge each ball into the chocolate coating with a fork and let the excess coating drip off. Place the balls on a wax paper-lined bake sheet. Chill for 10 minutes or until the coating hardens.
Microwave the vanilla almond bark in the microwave on high for 2 minutes, stirring after 1 minute. Spoon the coating into a heavy-duty zip-top plastic bag and seal. Snip a tiny hole in one corner of the bag and gently squeeze to drizzle the melted almond bark over the balls.
Keep balls refrigerated.
Chocolate Truffle Christmas Tree
Melt the almond bark in the microwave stirring at 1-minute intervals.
Brush the melted almond bark on the cone evenly.
Let dry at room temperature.
Place the covered cone on a serving plate or platter. Starting 1/2 inch from the base of the cone, insert wood toothpicks in a row around the cone bout 1 1/2" apart. Leave about 1/2" of the toothpick sticking out.
Press the chocolate candy balls onto the wood picks. Continue adding toothpicks and candy balls until you reach the top of the tree. Place toothpicks in bare spots between candy balls and press on fresh cranberries.
Create a festive bow and attach to the top of the cone with florist wire.
Watch your guests go crazy with chocolate truffle joy!