If your Valentine loves chocolate but you want to give them something a little more special than the typical store-bought box of creme-filled candies, these chocolate truffles will deliver even though they cost next to nothing! Most of us think of chocolate truffles as very fancy and very expensive and they often are because, 1) they were invented by the French, and 2) they’re named for their resemblance to the original truffle, the rare (and expensive) fungus used in European gourmet cooking.
These truffles only taste expensive, though. You can make them in a few hours using just 4 ingredients available in any grocery store.
Easy Handmade Chocolate Truffles Recipe
(Makes about 48 truffles)
Ingredients
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12-oz. pkg. semisweet chocolate chips
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16-oz. can creamy chocolate frosting
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1 Tbsp. orange extract
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cocoa power
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mini paper baking cups or foil squares
Making the Truffle Mixture
When combined, the melted chocolate chips and chocolate frosting will appear shiny and thick but be easy to stir.
You will need to use a double boiler on the stove, a spatula, hot pads or potholders, and liquid measuring spoons.
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In a double boiler, melt the chocolate chips. Use a spatula to stir until they are evenly melted.
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Add the frosting to the melted chocolate chips. Stir until thoroughly combined.
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Remove chocolate mixture from the heat.
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Add the flavor extract to the chocolate mixture. Mix thoroughly.
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Cover the chocolate mixture and chill in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.
Rolling the Truffles
Scooping the chocolate mixture and coating the truffle in cocoa powder can be messy but is essential for tempering the sweet flavor with some bitterness.
You will need a spoon, a bowl for the cocoa powder, and supplies for serving/storing your truffles.
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Use a spoon to scoop chocolate mixture. Lightly roll it into ball with your hands. Then coat the ball in cocoa powder.
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Place the finished truffles in mini paper baking cups or wrap individually in squares of foil.
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Serve right away in decorative candy tin or store in a sealed container.
Once you have the hang of this recipe, try experimenting with different flavor combinations. For St. Patrick’s Day, use mint extract instead of orange. For the spring, try white chips, vanilla frosting, strawberry extract, and a hazelnut coating. Combine dark chocolate and peppermint for the winter holidays. Get creative! This kind of candy-making is perfect for creative play because it is so easy and inexpensive.
