8ounceshigh-quality dark chocolate bar60–72% cacao, I like Ghirardelli
4ouncesheavy whipping cream
For Milk Chocolate Truffles (yields about 13):
8ounceshigh-quality milk chocolateI like Ghirardelli melting wafers
3ouncesheavy whipping cream
Toppings (choose your favorites):
Finely chopped nuts
Sweetened shredded coconut
Crushed peppermint candies
Cocoa powder
Melted chocolate for dipping or drizzling
Instructions
Prepare the Chocolate: Finely chop the 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate bar into small, uniform pieces and place them in a medium heat-safe bowl. The smaller the pieces, the easier they melt into a silky ganache.
Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, warm 4 ounces heavy whipping cream over medium heat until it reaches a gentle simmer — look for tiny bubbles forming around the edges. Do not boil.
Make the Ganache: Immediately pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit undisturbed for 1–2 minutes to soften the chocolate, then stir slowly with a spatula until smooth, thick, and glossy.
Chill the Ganache: Allow the ganache to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2–3 hours, or until firm enough to scoop.
Scoop the Truffles: Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to portion tablespoon-sized balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill again for 20 minutes to firm.
Roll into Balls: With clean hands (or lightly dusted with cocoa powder), roll each scoop into smooth balls. If they soften too quickly, return to the refrigerator for a few minutes before finishing.
Coat and Garnish: Roll the truffles in your chosen toppings, or dip them into melted chocolate for a smooth shell. Place on a wire rack set over a parchment-lined sheet pan until set.
Serve or Store: Enjoy immediately or store as directed in notes.
Notes
Make-Ahead Tips: Truffles are an excellent make-ahead treat. Prepare them up to 1 week in advance and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. For best texture, allow them to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.Freezing: Freeze truffles in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.