Assorted Gourmet Chocolate Truffles

1. Heat the cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Be careful not to let it boil over.
2. Combine with chocolate: Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for a few minutes to melt.
3. Stir until smooth: Stir the chocolate and cream together until you get a smooth, shiny ganache. Add in the butter and vanilla extract and stir until fully combined.

Flavor the Ganache (Optional Variations):

1. For Raspberry Truffles: Add the raspberry puree and lemon zest to the ganache. Stir to combine, then let the ganache cool to room temperature, then chill in the fridge for 1-2 hours to firm up.
2. For Salted Caramel Truffles: Add the caramel sauce and sea salt to the ganache. Mix well, then chill for 1-2 hours in the fridge.
3. For Classic Chocolate Truffles: Add the coffee liqueur and vanilla extract to the ganache and stir well. Chill for 1-2 hours in the fridge.

Form the Truffles:

1. Scoop the ganache: Once the ganache has cooled and thickened, use a small melon baller or a teaspoon to scoop out small portions of the ganache. Roll them into round balls using your hands. Work quickly as the ganache can melt from the warmth of your hands. If the ganache becomes too soft, chill it for an additional 15 minutes.

Coat the Truffles:

1. Prepare your coatings: Set up bowls with your desired coatings. You can use cocoa powder for a classic, velvety finish; chopped pistachios for a nutty touch; melted chocolate for a glossy exterior; or even coconut or sprinkles for a fun, colorful look.
2. Coat the truffles: Roll each truffle in the coating of your choice. For the melted chocolate coating, dip the truffles into the melted chocolate and place them on a parchment-lined tray to set. You can drizzle extra melted chocolate over the top for decoration.
3. Let them set: Allow the truffles to set at room temperature or refrigerate them for about 30 minutes to firm up.

Serve:

• Once your truffles are set, they’re ready to be enjoyed! Arrange them in a beautiful box or on a plate, and they make for a stunning gift or an elegant dessert.

Storage:

• Store the truffles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. You can also refrigerate them for longer shelf life, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Enjoy:

These Assorted Gourmet Chocolate Truffles are smooth, rich, and bursting with flavor! The raspberry truffles offer a fruity contrast to the dark chocolate, while the salted caramel truffles bring a perfect sweet-salty balance. The classic chocolate truffles are a timeless favorite, perfect for any chocolate lover.

Whether you’re gifting these truffles or keeping them all to yourself, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser! 🍫✨