Valentines Treats Chocolate Truffles

Name: Valentines Treats Chocolate Truffles
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 20 truffles
Ingredients: 8 oz (225g) dark chocolate, chopped; 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Cocoa powder, for dusting; Chopped nuts or sprinkles, for coating (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these delightful chocolate truffles for Valentine’s Day! They are the perfect combination of rich chocolate, creamy centers, and the opportunity for creative toppings. I often find myself experimenting with flavors like orange zest or espresso to personalize each batch. Plus, crafting these truffles is not just a treat; it’s a fun experience I enjoy sharing with loved ones. Whether you make them for a romantic evening or a sweet surprise, they bring happiness and sweetness to any occasion.

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:10:14.395Z

When I decided to create these chocolate truffles, I wanted a method that not only worked flawlessly but also allowed for creative flair. I chose a simple ganache of high-quality chocolate and heavy cream, which melts beautifully and sets to a perfect consistency for rolling. The secret? Letting the ganache cool in the fridge for just the right amount of time, so it's firm enough to scoop yet still scoopable.

Each batch feels like a mini adventure! I love experimenting with different coatings, from finely chopped nuts to cocoa powder or sweetened coconut. It’s enjoyable to transform basic chocolate into something visually stunning. Plus, presenting them in a beautiful box or jar adds a special touch to any gift.

        Why You Will Love These Truffles
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

Truffle Texture and Flavor

The texture of these chocolate truffles is key to their indulgent nature. The ganache should be smooth and glossy before chilling, indicating that the chocolate is fully melted and incorporated with the cream. If your ganache appears grainy, it may have been overheated. Melding the cream and dark chocolate properly creates that rich mouthfeel that melts effortlessly with each bite.

When rolling the truffles, maintaining a uniform size—about one inch in diameter—ensures even coating and a consistent texture throughout. It's helpful to use a cookie scoop for accuracy. The contrast of the rich chocolate center balanced with your chosen coating, whether cocoa powder or chopped nuts, elevates the experience and adds delightful texture.

Creative Coating Options

While cocoa powder is the traditional coating for chocolate truffles, you have endless possibilities to customize your treats. Finely chopped pistachios, coconut flakes, or crushed freeze-dried fruit can provide vibrant colors and flavors. Just make sure that whatever coating you choose is dry to ensure it adheres well to the ganache.

If you want to enhance the flavors inside the truffles, consider infusing your cream with spices or herbs before combining it with the chocolate. Infusing for about 10-15 minutes on low heat can impart unique flavor profiles like a hint of cinnamon or mint, allowing your truffles to stand out as truly personalized treats.

Ingredients

Truffle Ingredients

8 oz (225g) dark chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
Cocoa powder, for dusting
Chopped nuts or sprinkles, for coating (optional)

Make sure to use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.

Instructions

Make the Ganache

In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and heavy cream. Heat in the microwave in 15-second bursts, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Chill the Mixture

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes, until the ganache is firm enough to scoop.

Shape the Truffles

Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, take small amounts of the ganache and roll them into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Coat the Truffles

Roll each truffle in cocoa powder, chopped nuts, or sprinkles to coat. Return to the baking sheet and let them set in the fridge for another 10 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Once set, your truffles are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them in a decorative box or on a platter for a sweet touch.

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

Pro Tips

For a unique twist, add a few drops of flavored extract such as peppermint or almond to the ganache mixture.

Make-Ahead Tips

These chocolate truffles can be made ahead of time, making them the perfect addition to any celebration. Once shaped and coated, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

For longer storage, freeze the uncoated ganache balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before coating.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your truffles aren’t holding their shape after rolling, this could indicate that the ganache was not chilled long enough. Allow the mixture to firm up for an additional 10-15 minutes in the fridge before rolling. Conversely, if your truffles are too hard after chilling, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before handling.

Sometimes, truffles can crack during coating and rolling. This can happen if they were overworked or if the ganache was too cold. If you encounter this, try working with batches at room temperature to minimize the cracking and ensure a smoother finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but keep in mind that the truffles will be sweeter than using dark chocolate.

→ How long can I store these truffles?

Homemade chocolate truffles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

→ Can I freeze the truffles?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to place them in an airtight container.

→ What can I use for coating if I don’t have cocoa powder?

You can use crushed cookies, powdered sugar, or even desiccated coconut as alternatives for coating.