Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 12 oz. semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Special equipment needed:
- Double boiler or heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water
- Candy thermometer
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Small cookie scoop or spoon
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a double boiler or heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, heat the heavy cream until it reaches a temperature of 180°F on a candy thermometer.
2. Remove the cream from the heat and add the chocolate chips, caramel sauce, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Pour the chocolate mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
4. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, scoop out small portions of the chocolate mixture and roll them into balls.
5. Roll the truffles in cocoa powder and chopped pecans (if using).
6. Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours (refrigeration time)
5. Temperature:
Simmering water for double boiler, 180°F for cream
Serving size:
Makes approximately 24 truffles
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 140
Total fat: 10g
Saturated fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 30mg
Total carbohydrates: 14g
Dietary fiber: 2g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Milk chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips can be used instead of semisweet chocolate chips.
- Homemade caramel sauce or store-bought caramel sauce can be used.
- Almond extract or peppermint extract can be used instead of vanilla extract.
- Chopped almonds or walnuts can be used instead of pecans.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the chocolate mixture for a spicy twist.
- Roll the truffles in crushed graham crackers for a s'mores-inspired treat.
- Dip the truffles in melted white chocolate for a two-tone effect.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to make sure the truffles are all the same size.
- Refrigerate the chocolate mixture for at least 2 hours to ensure it is firm enough to roll into balls.
- If the chocolate mixture is too soft to roll, refrigerate it for an additional 30 minutes.
Storage instructions:
Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
Truffles can be served chilled or at room temperature. If desired, let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the truffles on a platter or in a decorative box for a beautiful presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle the truffles with sea salt or drizzle with additional caramel sauce for a decorative touch.
Pairings:
Serve the truffles with a glass of red wine or a cup of coffee for a decadent dessert.
Suggested side dishes:
No side dishes are necessary for this recipe.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the chocolate mixture is too thick, add a splash of heavy cream to thin it out.
- If the truffles are too soft to roll, refrigerate them for an additional 30 minutes.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
Food history:
Truffles are a classic French confection made from chocolate and cream. They are named after the prized fungi that are hunted in the forests of France.
Flavor profiles:
Rich, chocolatey, and sweet with a hint of caramel.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the truffles as a dessert or as a sweet treat with coffee or tea.
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Taste: Rich, Sweet, Decadent, Creamy, Chocolatey