Need a last-minute treat to add to a cookie tray or take to a holiday party? Gail’s Fruited Fudge Balls are quick and easy. Not only do they contain only 5 ingredients, they can be made with dozens of flavors of jam, preserves, or even fruit fillings such as the festive and versatile Cranberry Orange Filling. If there is hot pepper jelly around, it adds a mysterious bite to the truffle-like balls, or try mint jelly; it’s divine.

Of course, you can vary the variety of nuts – pecans are great as well as walnuts, and if you substitute creamy peanut butter for the fruit jam, peanuts are a good choice. Coconut can be used in place of the nuts, too.

Toasting nuts brings out their flavor. Just place them on a baking sheet and let them toast in a 350° oven for 7-9 minutes – don’t over toast or they will be bitter.

To save even more time, place the chocolate mixture in the freezer – it will be ready to scoop into balls in about 15 minutes.

As you can see, this recipe is ultra versatile – the sky’s the limit to the flavoring possibilities. It’s a good idea to make several batches because they will disappear quickly. In the unlikely event there are some leftover, they can be stored in the freezer indefinitely.

36-48 depending on size

1 cup finely chopped almonds, toasted
1 8 oz. package cream cheese, softened
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
3/4 cup vanilla wafer crumbs
1/4 cup fruit preserves, such as raspberry, apricot, or strawberry

1. Place the almonds on a plate and set aside.


2. In a mixer, cream the cream cheese until light; add the melted chocolate chips and beat until smooth, scraping the sides once or twice.


3. Stir in the crumbs and preserves.


4. Cover and chill 1 hour (or freeze 15 minutes).


5. Scoop 1" portions and roll into balls; roll in the chopped almonds.


6. Place in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or freeze up to 2 months.

Amount Per Serving
Calories 87 Calories from Fat 54
Percent Total Calories From: Fat 62% Protein 6% Carb. 32%

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Total Fat 6 g
Saturated Fat 3 g
Cholesterol 7 mg
Sodium 19 mg
Total Carbohydrate 7 g
Dietary Fiber 0 g
Sugars 0 g
Protein 1 g

Vitamin A 2% Vitamin C 0% Calcium 0% Iron 1%