Chocolate Hazelnut Truffles have become a beloved treat in our household, and for good reason. When I first stumbled upon this recipe, I was curious yet skeptical about how these truffles would fare against the store-bought ones we were used to. To my delight, the homemade version surpassed all expectations. The rich, decadent flavor with a hint of hazelnut paired beautifully with the smooth chocolate. My family couldn’t get enough of them, and they quickly became a staple dessert for special occasions and cozy family gatherings. The recipe is straightforward enough to make with kids, turning the process into a fun family activity that ends with delicious rewards. The satisfaction of crafting these treats at home adds an extra layer of enjoyment that you simply can’t get from anything store-bought.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 8 oz (225 g) high-quality dark chocolate, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup (60 g) hazelnut spread (such as Nutella)
• 1/4 cup (30 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup (70 g) chopped toasted hazelnuts
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Begin by pouring the heavy cream into a small saucepan and heating it over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Be careful not to let it boil.

2. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the finely chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for a minute to allow the chocolate to soften.

3. Gently stir the mixture until the chocolate has completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.

4. Stir in the hazelnut spread, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until everything is well combined.

5. Transfer the mixture to a shallow dish and refrigerate it for about 2 hours or until it is firm enough to scoop.

6. Once firm, use a teaspoon or a melon baller to scoop out small amounts of the chocolate mixture and roll it into balls. Work quickly as the mixture can soften in your hands.

7. Roll each truffle in the unsweetened cocoa powder followed by the chopped toasted hazelnuts.

8. Place the finished truffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate until firm, about 30 minutes.

9. Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 24 truffles

Calories per serving: Approximately 110 calories

Preparation Time

Total time: Approximately 3 hours

This includes about 2 hours of chilling time to ensure the truffles are firm enough to roll and coat.

How to Serve

• As a decadent dessert at dinner parties.
• Accompanied by a glass of dessert wine or port for a sophisticated finish.
• As a luxurious gift, packaged in a beautiful box lined with parchment paper.
• Paired with coffee or espresso for an indulgent afternoon treat.
• Served alongside a cheese platter for a sweet and savory experience.

Additional Tips

1. Choose Quality Chocolate: The better the chocolate, the richer the truffles. Opt for a high cocoa content for the best results.

2. Consistent Rolling: Use a melon baller for even-sized truffles, ensuring uniformity in presentation and texture.

3. Experiment with Flavors: Add a hint of orange zest or a splash of liqueur to the chocolate mixture for a unique twist.

4. Maintain Temperature: Keep your hands cool while rolling to prevent the chocolate from melting. Run hands under cold water if needed.

5. Alternative Coatings: Consider rolling truffles in shredded coconut, chopped pistachios, or even matcha powder for variety.

FAQ

1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
   Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate, but it will result in a sweeter truffle. Adjust the amount of hazelnut spread to balance the sweetness.

2. Can these truffles be frozen?
   Absolutely. Freeze the truffles in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container for up to three months.

3. What if I don’t have a melon baller?
   A teaspoon can work just as well. Aim for uniform sizes for even presentation.

4. How can I make these truffles vegan?
   Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and ensure your chocolate and hazelnut spread are dairy-free.

5. Can I add spices to the truffle mix?
   Yes! Spices like cinnamon or chili can add an interesting depth to your truffles. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.