Introduction
There is perhaps no confection more luxurious and satisfying than a homemade truffle. Named after the highly prized subterranean fungus due due to their similar lumpy shape, these dense, rich chocolate spheres are surprisingly simple to create. Our Coffee Truffles elevate the classic ganache base with the deep, aromatic bitterness of high-quality espresso, making them the perfect sophisticated treat for coffee lovers. They require no baking, minimal ingredients, and make a fantastic edible gift or an elegant finish to any dinner party.
Ingredients
- 300g (10.5 oz) High-quality Dark Chocolate (minimum 60% cocoa solids), finely chopped
- 120 ml (½ cup) Heavy Cream (or Double Cream)
- 2 tablespoons Instant Espresso Powder (or 30 ml / 2 tbsp very strong, hot brewed espresso)
- 15g (1 tablespoon) Unsalted Butter, cut into small cubes (optional, for shine)
- ½ teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- For Coating: Unsweetened Cocoa Powder, finely chopped nuts, or powdered sugar
Step-by-step Preparation
- Prepare the Chocolate Base: Place the finely chopped dark chocolate into a heatproof bowl. Chopping the chocolate finely ensures it melts quickly and smoothly, resulting in a silkier ganache.
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Heat the Cream and Espresso: In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream and the instant espresso powder. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the espresso is fully dissolved and the cream is steaming but not boiling.
Tip: If using brewed espresso instead of powder, reduce the cream quantity slightly (to about 100ml) to maintain the correct ganache thickness.
- Form the Ganache: Pour the hot cream mixture immediately over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes. This allows the heat to penetrate the chocolate fully. After 5 minutes, gently stir the mixture starting from the center and working outwards until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Enrich and Chill: Stir in the vanilla extract and the small cubes of butter (if using). The butter adds a wonderful richness and a slight sheen to the final truffle. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the ganache to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2 to 3 hours, or until the mixture is firm enough to easily scoop and roll.
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Roll and Coat: Once firm, use a small spoon or a mini ice cream scoop (about 1 teaspoon size) to portion the ganache. Quickly roll the portions between your palms into smooth spheres. Immediately drop the rolled truffles into your chosen coating (cocoa powder is traditional).
Tip: If the ganache becomes too sticky while rolling, return it to the fridge for 15 minutes. Working quickly and using gloves can help prevent the chocolate from melting from the heat of your hands.
- Final Set: Place the coated truffles on a parchment-lined tray and chill for a final 30 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information
Coffee Truffles are an indulgent treat, high in healthy fats and energy due to the dark chocolate and heavy cream. While they are calorie-dense (approximately 80-100 calories per small truffle, depending on size and coating), dark chocolate provides powerful antioxidants and has been linked to improved heart health. This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Storage
Store Coffee Truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you plan to give them as gifts, keep them chilled until they are ready for transport. For the best flavor and texture, allow the truffles to sit at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes before serving, as this softens the ganache slightly, making it melt beautifully in your mouth.
Conclusion
These Coffee Truffles are the epitome of simple elegance. Their intense coffee flavor pairs beautifully with a glass of dessert wine, a digestif like Amaretto, or, of course, a fresh cup of espresso. For variations, try rolling them in crushed toasted almonds, or drizzling them with melted white chocolate for a beautiful contrast. Enjoy the deep, satisfying richness of this classic confection!