Decadent Hazelnut Chocolate Truffle Recipe

Hello Everyone! Welcome to SasVibe. If you’re a fan of rich, creamy chocolate with a delightful crunch of hazelnuts, then these hazelnut chocolate truffles are perfect for you. Not only are they a treat to eat, but they’re also fun to make. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing these indulgent truffles at home.

Ingredients:

• 200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids)
• 100ml double cream
• 50g unsalted butter
• 50g finely chopped hazelnuts
• 2 tablespoons hazelnut liqueur (optional)
• 100g hazelnuts, toasted and finely chopped, for coating
• Cocoa powder for dusting

Preparation Time:

• 30 minutes (plus chilling time)

Method of Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Mixture

1. Chop the Chocolate: Finely chop the dark chocolate and place it in a heatproof bowl.
2. Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, bring the double cream to a simmer over medium heat. Be careful not to let it boil.
3. Combine Chocolate and Cream: Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for a minute to melt the chocolate, then stir gently until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.

Step 2: Add Butter and Hazelnut Flavor

1. Add Butter: Cut the unsalted butter into small pieces and add it to the chocolate mixture. Stir until the butter is completely melted and incorporated.
2. Mix in Hazelnuts and Liqueur: Stir in the finely chopped hazelnuts and the hazelnut liqueur (if using) until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Chill the Mixture

1. Cool and Chill: Allow the chocolate mixture to cool to room temperature. Then, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the mixture is firm enough to scoop.

Step 4: Form the Truffles

1. Scoop the Truffles: Using a melon baller or a teaspoon, scoop out small portions of the chilled chocolate mixture. Roll them quickly between your palms to form smooth, round balls.
2. Coat the Truffles: Roll each truffle in the toasted, finely chopped hazelnuts to coat evenly. For a variation, you can also dust some of the truffles with cocoa powder.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Final Chill: Place the coated truffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate them for another 30 minutes to firm up.
2. Serve: Your hazelnut chocolate truffles are now ready to enjoy. Serve them chilled or at room temperature for a delightful treat.

Tips for Perfect Truffles:

• Quality Chocolate: Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
• Hazelnut Coating: Make sure the hazelnuts are finely chopped and toasted for extra crunch and flavor.
• Storage: Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

Variations:

• Different Nuts: Substitute hazelnuts with almonds, pistachios, or walnuts for a different flavor profile.
• Flavor Infusions: Add a hint of flavor by infusing the cream with vanilla, coffee, or orange zest before combining with the chocolate.
• Liqueur Options: Experiment with different liqueurs like amaretto, Irish cream, or coffee liqueur for varied tastes.

Making hazelnut chocolate truffles at home is a rewarding experience that results in a delicious, elegant treat. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy a chocolate craving, these truffles are sure to impress.

Enjoy crafting these delightful morsels and indulging in their rich, nutty flavor. Happy truffle making!