🍫 Decadent French Chocolate Truffles

Nothing says joie de vivre quite like a rich, silky chocolate truffle. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or to gift to loved ones, these truffles are surprisingly easy to make at home.

🍫 A Little History of the Chocolate Truffle

Did you know that the chocolate truffle, as we enjoy it today, was invented in France in the 1920s? Its silky ganache center and cocoa powder coating were inspired by the rare truffle mushroom, giving it both its shape and its name. Since then, truffles have become a beloved classic of French pâtisserie, a little bite of luxury that you can now make at home!

Ingredients (makes about 20 truffles)

• 200 g (7 oz) dark chocolate (70% cocoa recommended)

• 100 ml (⅓ cup + 1 tbsp) heavy cream

• 25 g (2 tbsp) unsalted butter, at room temperature

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (optional)

• Cocoa powder, finely chopped nuts, or powdered sugar for coating

Instructions

1. Chop the chocolate Finely chop the dark chocolate and place it in a heatproof bowl. This ensures it melts evenly without burning.

2. Heat the cream In a small saucepan, gently heat the cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from the heat—don’t let it boil.

3. Combine cream and chocolate Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for 1–2 minutes to soften the chocolate, then stir gently until smooth and glossy.

4. Add butter and flavor Stir in the butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The mixture should be silky and shiny.

5. Chill the ganache Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1–2 hours, or until the ganache is firm enough to scoop.

6. Shape the truffles Using a teaspoon or melon baller, scoop small amounts of ganache and quickly roll them between your palms to form small balls. Work quickly to prevent melting.

7. Coat the truffles Roll the truffles in cocoa powder, finely chopped nuts, or powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.

8. Serve and enjoy! Store truffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or give them as a delightful homemade gift.

Tips for Perfect Truffles

• Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.

• Keep your hands slightly cool when rolling to avoid melting the ganache.

• Experiment with flavor variations: a pinch of sea salt, a dash of orange zest, or a splash of liqueur can add a delightful twist.