Valentines Treats Chocolate Truffles

Name: Valentines Treats Chocolate Truffles
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 truffles
Ingredients: 8 oz (225g) high-quality dark chocolate, chopped; 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 cup (30g) cocoa powder (for dusting); 1/4 cup (30g) crushed nuts (optional); Pinch of sea salt (optional)

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I absolutely love making these Valentines Treats Chocolate Truffles for my loved ones. They’re rich, decadent, and surprisingly easy to whip up! The combination of smooth chocolate and unexpected flavor twists like a hint of espresso or a sprinkle of sea salt make them utterly delightful. These truffles are perfect to share, a delicious way to express love, or just as a sweet indulgence for a special occasion. Let’s dive into making these mouth-watering treats that are sure to impress anyone!

Created by

Celia Winterbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:23:35.491Z

When I first made these truffles, I was surprised at how quickly they came together. The key to a perfect truffle is to use high-quality chocolate and let the ganache chill properly before shaping. I remember experimenting with different flavorings, like vanilla extract and finely grated orange zest. It was a delightful surprise to find how much those subtle touches enhanced the chocolate!

Another crucial tip I learned is to coat the truffles just before serving, ensuring they remain irresistibly fresh and maintain that lovely texture. The combination of flavors and the melt-in-your-mouth feel make these truffles an absolute favorite during Valentine’s!

        Why You Will Love These Truffles
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

Mastering the Ganache

The ganache is the heart of these chocolate truffles, and mastering it is crucial for achieving that rich, creamy texture that melts in your mouth. When heating the heavy cream, keep a close eye on it; you want it to just begin simmering, not boiling. Removing it from heat promptly prevents the cream from scorching and ensures a smooth blend with the chocolate. Stirring thoroughly is key—continue until the mixture is glossy, and every piece of chocolate is fully melted and incorporated.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can play with flavors in your ganache. Consider adding a spoonful of espresso powder for a delightful coffee note or a splash of flavored liqueur for extra depth. Just remember, when adding these ingredients, only introduce them after the chocolate has melted; this maintains the ganache's texture and ensures even distribution of flavors. Experimentation is part of the fun!

Perfecting Truffle Coating

Rolling your truffles can be as creative as you want! While cocoa powder is the classic choice for dusting, don’t shy away from alternative coatings. Crushed nuts, like almonds or hazelnuts, add a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully. If you prefer a sweeter touch, try rolling them in powdered sugar or even toasted coconut for a tropical twist. The key is to ensure the truffles are slightly sticky from the ganache before rolling them in coatings to help them adhere effectively.

For those who are mindful of presentation, consider drizzling melted chocolate over your finished truffles. This adds an elegant touch and can be done using a fork or piping bag. Also, make sure to let the drizzled chocolate set in the fridge before serving. This simple step not only enhances the look but also introduces a satisfying textural contrast against the soft truffle center.

Ingredients

For the Truffles

8 oz (225g) high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup (30g) cocoa powder (for dusting)
1/4 cup (30g) crushed nuts (optional)
Pinch of sea salt (optional)

Feel free to get creative with the coatings or flavors!

Instructions

Make the Ganache

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Stir until smooth and fully combined. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt, if using. Let it cool at room temperature.

Chill the Mixture

Once the ganache is smooth, transfer it to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for about 30-40 minutes or until the mixture is firm enough to handle.

Shape the Truffles

Using a melon baller or your hands, scoop out small amounts of the ganache and roll them into balls. If desired, roll them in cocoa powder or crushed nuts for coating.

Serve

Place the truffles on a serving plate. They can be refrigerated until ready to serve. Enjoy this delightful chocolate treat!

Store any leftover truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Pro Tips

Using different types of chocolate or flavorings can create a variety of unique truffles. Experiment with your favorites!

Storage Tips

These chocolate truffles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you decide to freeze them for longer storage, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. When you're ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw in the fridge for a few hours to retain their delightful texture.

When storing, keep in mind that extreme temperatures can affect chocolate. Avoid storing truffles near heat sources or in overly humid areas, as this can cause them to bloom or lose their glossy finish. If you notice any surface changes, just remember they’re still safe to eat—often, the flavor remains unaffected!

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize these truffles with a variety of flavor profiles! For a citrus twist, try adding a teaspoon of freshly grated orange zest to the warm cream before mixing it with chocolate. The bright notes of citrus will lift the rich chocolate flavor beautifully, creating a refreshing contrast that’s perfect for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion.

You can also explore spices to heighten the flavors; a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of peppermint extract can give your truffles a unique kick. Just make sure to start with small amounts and adjust to your taste preference. Remember, it's all about balancing flavors while keeping the rich chocolate base at the forefront.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can, but it will result in a sweeter truffle. Adjust the sugar in the recipe accordingly.

→ How can I make these truffles vegan?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free chocolate.

→ How do I store leftover truffles?

Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for up to a week.

→ Can I add flavors to the ganache?

Absolutely! A splash of espresso, flavored extracts, or even liqueur can enhance the truffle flavors.