Name: Spekulatius Kugeln
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 200g Spekulatius cookies (spiced butter cookies); 100g sweetened condensed milk or 100g cream cheese; 100g white or dark chocolate, melted; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; Optional: 1 tbsp rum or amaretto; Optional coatings: cocoa powder, desiccated coconut, crushed cookies, or powdered sugar

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Spekulatius Kugeln are no-bake cookie balls made with crushed spiced cookies, cream, and chocolate—perfect for the holiday season. I make these sweet, spiced truffles when I want something festive and quick, with all the cozy flavor of traditional German Spekulatius cookies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love these little treats because they’re quick, easy, and taste like Christmas in every bite. The warming spices from the Spekulatius cookies blend beautifully with creamy chocolate, and they’re perfect for gifting, snacking, or decorating a dessert platter. Spekulatius Kugeln

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Spekulatius cookies (spiced butter cookies)
Sweetened condensed milk or cream cheese (depending on style)
White or dark chocolate (melted)
Butter
Optional: rum or amaretto
Optional coatings: cocoa powder, desiccated coconut, crushed cookies, powdered sugar

Directions

I crush the Spekulatius cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin.
I melt butter and chocolate together, then stir in condensed milk or cream cheese and a splash of rum or amaretto if I’m using it.
I mix the crushed cookies into the chocolate mixture until it forms a moldable dough.
I chill the mixture for 30 minutes to firm it up.
I roll the dough into bite-sized balls, then coat them in cocoa powder, coconut, or more crushed cookies.
I refrigerate until ready to serve.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 25–30 truffles and takes around 45 minutes total, including chilling time.

Variations

I roll them in melted white chocolate for a sweeter finish.
I use almond extract instead of liquor for a kid-friendly version.
I add chopped nuts or candied orange peel for extra texture.
I mix in a spoonful of speculoos spread or nut butter for creaminess.

Storage/Reheating

I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They also freeze well for longer storage. These don’t require reheating—just let them sit at room temp for a few minutes before serving. Spekulatius Kugeln

FAQs

Can I make these without alcohol?

Yes, I skip the rum or replace it with milk or a dash of vanilla extract to keep them alcohol-free.

What kind of Spekulatius cookies should I use?

I use traditional spiced butter cookies, often found in the holiday section. Either plain or almond-studded versions work well.

Can I use cream cheese instead of condensed milk?

Yes, I’ve used both. Cream cheese gives a slightly tangier, cheesecake-like result.

How do I keep them from sticking to my hands?

I chill the mixture well and lightly coat my hands with water or oil while rolling.

Are these good for gifting?

Absolutely. I pack them in mini paper cups or small tins lined with parchment for a pretty presentation.

Conclusion

Spekulatius Kugeln are one of my favorite easy holiday treats. They’re spiced, creamy, and so simple to make, with no baking required. Whether I’m filling a cookie box or just treating myself, these are always a festive hit.