Ingredients with Measurements:
- 8 oz. dark chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp. unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder, for rolling
Special Equipment Needed:
- Double boiler or heatproof bowl and saucepan
- Rubber spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Small cookie scoop or spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water, melt the chopped dark chocolate, stirring occasionally with a rubber spatula.
2. In a separate saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer.
3. Remove the melted chocolate from the heat and pour in the hot cream, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth.
4. Add the unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and salt to the chocolate mixture, stirring until the butter is melted and fully incorporated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and let it cool to room temperature. Then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion the chocolate mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Roll each ball in cocoa powder until fully coated. Place the truffles back on the baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
8. Serve the truffles chilled or at room temperature.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours + 30 minutes
Temperature:
Simmering water for double boiler
Refrigerator for chilling truffles
Serving size:
Makes about 20 truffles
Nutritional information:
Calories per truffle: 90
Total Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 25mg
Total Carbohydrates: 8g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Milk chocolate or white chocolate can be substituted for the dark chocolate.
- Half-and-half or whole milk can be substituted for the heavy cream.
- Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted butter, but reduce the added salt accordingly.
Variations:
- Add 1-2 tbsp. of your favorite liqueur, such as Grand Marnier or Bailey's Irish Cream, to the chocolate mixture for a boozy twist.
- Roll the truffles in chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or sprinkles instead of cocoa powder.
- Use a different extract, such as almond or peppermint, in place of the vanilla extract.
Tips and Tricks:
- Use a high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
- Don't overheat the cream or the chocolate mixture may become grainy.
- If the chocolate mixture is too soft to roll into balls, refrigerate it for a bit longer until it firms up.
- Dust your hands with cocoa powder to prevent the chocolate mixture from sticking to them while rolling.
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 you prefer them slightly softened, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Presentation Ideas:
Arrange the truffles on a platter or in a decorative box for a beautiful presentation.
Garnishes:
Dust the truffles with additional cocoa powder or sprinkle with sea salt for a finishing touch.
Pairings:
Serve the truffles with a glass of red wine or a cup of coffee for a delicious pairing.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Truffles are a decadent treat on their own, but you could serve them with fresh fruit or a cheese board for a more substantial dessert.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the chocolate mixture is too thick or grainy, try adding a splash of hot cream and whisking until smooth.
- If the truffles are too soft to handle, refrigerate them for a bit longer until they firm up.
Food Safety Advice:
Be sure to use clean hands and equipment when making the truffles. Store them in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
Food History:
Truffles are a classic French confection made from chocolate ganache rolled into balls and coated in cocoa powder or other toppings. They are named after the rare and expensive fungus of the same name, which is highly prized in French cuisine.
Flavor Profiles:
Dark chocolate truffles are rich, creamy, and indulgent, with a deep chocolate flavor and a slightly bitter finish.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the truffles as a dessert or a sweet treat with coffee or tea.
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