French Chocolate Truffles Recipe

Introduction

French chocolate truffles are a rich and silky treat perfect for any chocolate lover. These bite-sized delights combine creamy ganache with a delicate cocoa coating for an irresistible dessert.

Ingredients

• 226 g (8 oz) dark baking chocolate (60–70%)
• 125 ml (½ cup) heavy cream (full-fat)
• 20 g unsalted butter, softened
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 pinch sea salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Finely chop the chocolate and place it in a medium bowl.
2. Step 2: Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it begins to simmer.
3. Step 3: Pour the hot cream over the chocolate, add the softened butter, and let it sit for 3–5 minutes.
4. Step 4: Stir the mixture until the ganache becomes completely smooth.
5. Step 5: Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt.
6. Step 6: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface, and chill for at least 3 hours or 1 hour in the freezer.
7. Step 7: Scoop portions of ganache using a spoon or small scoop and place them on a lined baking sheet.
8. Step 8: Freeze the tray for 10–15 minutes to firm up the ganache.
9. Step 9: Roll each portion quickly between your hands to form smooth, round truffles.
10. Step 10: Roll the truffles in cocoa powder or your preferred coating until fully covered.

Tips & Variations

• For added flavor, roll truffles in crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or powdered sugar instead of cocoa.
• Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best taste and texture.
• To make flavored truffles, add a splash of liqueur such as Grand Marnier or Chambord to the ganache before chilling.

Storage

Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. You can also freeze truffles for up to one month; thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate for a sweeter, creamier truffle, but the texture and intensity of chocolate flavor will be different.

How do I prevent truffles from melting while rolling?

Chill the ganache well before shaping, and if your hands get too warm, briefly place the truffles in the freezer to firm up again.

French Chocolate Truffles Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 77 reviews

Delight in these classic French chocolate truffles made with rich dark chocolate, creamy ganache, and a touch of vanilla. Smooth, indulgent, and coated in cocoa powder, they offer a luxurious treat perfect for gifting or enjoying as a decadent dessert.

• Author: Mila
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: About 24 truffles 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: French
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 226 g (8 oz) dark baking chocolate (60–70%)
• 125 ml (½ cup) heavy cream (full-fat)
• 20 g unsalted butter, softened
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 pinch sea salt
• Cocoa powder or desired coating for rolling

Instructions

1. Chop the Chocolate: Finely chop the dark baking chocolate and place it in a medium-sized heatproof bowl to prepare for melting.
2. Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, gently heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just starts to simmer, avoiding a full boil.
3. Combine Cream and Chocolate: Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate, add the softened butter, and let the mixture sit undisturbed for 3 to 5 minutes to soften the chocolate.
4. Make Ganache Smooth: Stir the chocolate and cream mixture gently but thoroughly until the ganache is completely smooth and glossy.
5. Add Flavorings: Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt to enhance the depth of flavor in the ganache.
6. Chill the Ganache: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the ganache surface to prevent skin formation, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or in the freezer for about 1 hour until firm.
7. Scoop the Ganache: Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, portion out the chilled ganache and place the scoops onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Freeze Portions: Freeze the ganache portions on the baking sheet for 10 to 15 minutes so they are easier to handle.
9. Shape the Truffles: Quickly roll each frozen ganache portion between your palms to form smooth, round truffles.
10. Coat the Truffles: Roll each truffle in cocoa powder or your preferred coating until fully covered, then store them in the refrigerator until serving.

Notes

• You can substitute the cocoa powder coating with chopped nuts, powdered sugar, or shredded coconut for variety.
• Use high-quality chocolate (60–70% cocoa) for the best flavor and texture.
• Truffles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Allow truffles to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for optimal texture.
• For a quicker set, chilling in the freezer is effective but monitor so truffles do not freeze solid.

Keywords: French chocolate truffles, chocolate truffles recipe, chocolate ganache, French dessert, homemade truffles