Chocolate Truffles

Recipe by MaryJane Robbins

Cream and chocolate pair to make the simplest and most decadent of chocolate treats, the truffle. Originally intended to resemble the truffle mushroom, chocolate truffles are a way to enjoy the true flavors of your favorite chocolates. The silken texture of the ganache will melt on your tongue, transforming a simple bite into a sublime adventure.

Prep
30 mins
Total
1 hr 30 mins
Yield
2 to 3 dozen truffles, depending on size
Chocolate Truffles

Instructions

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  1. In a medium-sized saucepan or microwave safe container, heat the cream to boiling. Boil for 30 seconds to evaporate some of the water in the milk.

  2. Remove from the heat and carefully add the chocolate. Let sit for 1 to 2 minutes to soften and melt. Add the vanilla.

  3. Whisk the chocolate and cream together until smooth, silky and creamy. This mixture is called ganache.

  4. Pour the ganache into a shallow baking dish or pan and refrigerate until firm, the consistency of soft clay. This will take about 1 to 2 hours.

  5. To form the truffles, scoop small 3/4" balls from the chilled ganache. Roll each ball between the palms until rounded, but not perfectly so. The heat of your hands will slightly soften the truffle as you roll.

  6. Roll the now softened truffle in your choice of toppings. Unsweetened cocoa, shredded coconut, chocolate sprinkles, toasted nuts and even sea salt are popular toppings.

  7. Set the truffles aside to firm up before serving at room temperature. Truffles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Tips from our Bakers

  • You can flavor the cream adding a drop or two of extra strong flavoring after removing the cream from the heat. Subtle flavors are better than strong flavors, so that the taste of the chocolate shines through.
  • Mercken's Bittersweet, Belcolade Bittersweet Discs, Peter's Burgundy Chunks and Guittard Onyx wafers all make excellent truffles.