French Desserts > French Chocolate Desserts > French Chocolate Truffles

Griottines Cherry Chocolate Truffles Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 12 oz dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup Griottines cherries, chopped
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt

Special equipment needed:
- Double boiler or heatproof bowl and saucepan
- Candy thermometer
- 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, heat the heavy cream until it reaches 180°F on a candy thermometer.
2. Add the dark chocolate chips to the hot cream and stir until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped Griottines cherries, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a shallow dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, scoop out the chocolate mixture and roll into 1-inch balls.
7. Place the truffles on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for another 30 minutes or until firm.
8. Roll the truffles in cocoa powder or powdered sugar before serving.


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours + 30 minutes
Temperature:
Simmering water for the double boiler
Serving size:
Makes about 24 truffles

Nutritional information:
Calories: 120
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 5mg
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 1g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Milk chocolate chips or white chocolate chips can be used instead of dark chocolate chips.
- Dried cherries or other dried fruit can be used instead of Griottines cherries.
- Almond extract or other flavorings can be used instead of vanilla extract.

Variations:
- Roll the truffles in chopped nuts or coconut flakes instead of cocoa powder or powdered sugar.
- Add a tablespoon of liqueur, such as cherry brandy or amaretto, to the chocolate mixture for extra flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to make uniform-sized truffles.
- If the chocolate mixture is too soft to roll, refrigerate it for a few more minutes until firm.
- Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

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.

Presentation ideas:
Arrange the truffles on a platter or in a decorative box for gifting.

Garnishes:
Garnish with additional Griottines cherries or chocolate shavings.

Pairings:
Serve with a glass of red wine or a cup of coffee.

Suggested side dishes:
Serve with fresh fruit or cheese.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the chocolate mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon of hot water and stir until smooth.
- If the truffles are too soft, refrigerate them for a few more minutes until firm.

Food safety advice:
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the heavy cream reaches 180°F to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
- Wash hands and surfaces thoroughly before and after handling food.

Food history:
Griottines cherries are a French specialty made by macerating Morello cherries in liqueur. They are often used in desserts and cocktails.

Flavor profiles:
Rich, chocolatey, and fruity with a hint of cherry liqueur.

Serving suggestions:
Serve as a sweet treat or gift for Valentine's Day or other special occasions.

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Taste: Rich, Sweet, Chocolatey, Fruity, Creamy