Chocolate truffles are the epitome of chocolate luxury. These rich, creamy confections are made with simple ingredients but offer a taste that’s anything but ordinary. Ideal for special occasions or as a treat for yourself, chocolate truffles melt in your mouth and come in a variety of flavors. Whether you prefer classic dark chocolate or adventurous variations like salted caramel or espresso, these truffles are a sure way to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 8 oz (225 g) high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Cocoa powder, for rolling
- Finely chopped nuts, for rolling (optional)
- Sprinkles or edible gold leaf (optional)
Steps
- Prepare the Cream and Chocolate Mixture:
- Begin by heating the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring it to a gentle simmer, but do not let it boil. Once the cream is hot, pour it over the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Allow it to sit for a minute to soften the chocolate. Gently stir the mixture until the chocolate is fully melted and combined with the cream.
- Incorporate Butter and Vanilla:
- Add the unsalted butter and vanilla extract to the chocolate mixture. Stir until the butter is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy. This step enriches the truffle filling, giving it a silky texture and enhanced flavor.
- Chill the Mixture:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 1 to 2 hours, or until the mixture is firm enough to scoop. This chilling time allows the truffle mixture to set properly, making it easier to form into balls.
- Form the Truffles:
- Once the mixture has chilled, use a small cookie scoop or a spoon to portion out small amounts of the chocolate mixture. Roll each portion between your palms to form smooth, bite-sized balls. If the mixture becomes too soft while working, simply return it to the refrigerator for a few minutes to firm up.
- Coat the Truffles:
- Roll the truffles in cocoa powder for a classic finish, or opt for finely chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. You can also roll them in sprinkles or edible gold leaf for a more festive appearance. Gently shake off any excess coating and place the truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill and Serve:
- Return the coated truffles to the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set. Once chilled, they are ready to serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Tips For Variation
- Flavor Infusions: Add a splash of flavored liqueur, such as orange or raspberry, to the truffle mixture for a unique twist.
- Spices: Mix in a pinch of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne pepper for an extra layer of flavor.
- Fruit Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the chocolate mixture for a fresh, citrusy note.
- Nut Butters: Swirl in a spoonful of almond or peanut butter into the truffle mixture for a nutty surprise.
- Coffee: Stir in a teaspoon of finely ground espresso or instant coffee for a coffee-flavored treat.
- Liqueur: Enhance your truffles with a splash of your favorite liqueur, such as Baileys or Grand Marnier, for an adult-only treat.
- Caramel Filling: Create a caramel center by placing a small dollop of caramel sauce in the middle of each truffle before rolling.
- Sea Salt: Sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top of each truffle for a sweet and salty contrast.
Macros (per truffle, approximately)
- Calories: 80
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 1g
FAQs
- Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate for dark chocolate, but the truffles will be sweeter and less rich. Adjust the amount of sugar if desired. - How long do chocolate truffles last?
Chocolate truffles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. - Can I use non-dairy alternatives?
Absolutely. Substitute coconut cream or almond milk for the heavy cream and use dairy-free chocolate to make the truffles vegan-friendly. - How do I prevent the truffles from melting in my hands?
Keep the truffle mixture chilled and handle the truffles as little as possible. If they become too soft, return them to the refrigerator to firm up before rolling. - Can I use a truffle mold?
Yes, using a truffle mold can help create uniform shapes. Simply fill the mold with the truffle mixture, refrigerate until firm, and then unmold the truffles.
Decadent Chocolate Truffles Recipe: A Delightful Indulgence
Chocolate truffles are a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth treat made with just a few ingredients. This easy recipe combines rich dark chocolate with heavy cream, butter, and vanilla to create smooth, creamy truffles that can be rolled in cocoa powder, nuts, or sprinkles. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet indulgence, these truffles are customizable with various flavors and coatings to suit any palate. Store them in the fridge for up to two weeks or freeze for longer enjoyment.
Ingredients
- 1 cup 240 ml heavy cream
- 8 oz 225 g high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Cocoa powder for rolling
- Finely chopped nuts for rolling (optional)
- Sprinkles or edible gold leaf optional
Instructions
Prepare the Cream and Chocolate Mixture:
- Heat 1 cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it reaches a gentle simmer. Do not let it boil. Once the cream is hot, pour it over 8 oz of chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Allow it to sit for about 1 minute to soften the chocolate. Stir the mixture gently until the chocolate is completely melted and combined with the cream, resulting in a smooth, glossy ganache.
Incorporate Butter and Vanilla:
- Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the ganache. Stir until the butter is fully melted and incorporated, making the mixture silky and rich.
Chill the Mixture:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours, or until the mixture is firm enough to scoop. The chilling time allows the ganache to set properly, making it easier to shape into truffles.
Form the Truffles:
- Once the ganache is chilled, use a small cookie scoop or a spoon to portion out small amounts of the chocolate mixture. Roll each portion between your palms to form smooth, bite-sized balls. If the mixture becomes too soft while working, return it to the refrigerator to firm up.
Coat the Truffles:
- Roll the truffles in cocoa powder for a classic finish. Alternatively, you can roll them in finely chopped nuts, sprinkles, or edible gold leaf for added texture and visual appeal. Gently shake off any excess coating and place the truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill and Serve:
- Return the coated truffles to the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set. Once chilled, they are ready to serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.