Prepare to embark on a luxurious culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you to a world of rich, velvety chocolate bliss! These Irish Cream Coffee Truffles are not just a dessert—they're a sophisticated indulgence that combines the deep, complex flavors of bittersweet chocolate with the smooth, spirited warmth of Irish cream liqueur. Whether you're a chocolate connoisseur or simply looking to impress your guests with a show-stopping treat, these truffles promise to be your secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Irish
Serves: 24 truffles
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped
- 1/4 cup Irish cream liqueur
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare a clean work surface and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to place the finished truffles.
- Chop the bittersweet chocolate into small, uniform pieces to ensure smooth melting and consistent texture.
- In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium-low heat until it just begins to simmer, being careful not to let it boil.
- Remove the cream from heat and immediately pour over the chopped chocolate, letting it sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt completely.
- Gently whisk the chocolate and cream mixture until smooth and glossy, creating a ganache base.
- Stir in the Irish cream liqueur, mixing thoroughly to incorporate the flavor throughout the ganache.
- Cover the ganache and refrigerate for approximately 2 hours, or until the mixture is firm enough to handle and shape.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder and powdered sugar to create a smooth coating mixture.
- Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion out small balls of the chilled ganache, quickly rolling them between your palms to create uniform truffles.
- Immediately roll each truffle in the cocoa powder and sugar mixture, ensuring complete coverage.
- Place the coated truffles on the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to set.
- Before serving, let the truffles sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly and enhance their creamy texture.
- Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Tips
- Use high-quality chocolate: The better the chocolate, the more luxurious your truffles will taste. Choose a good-quality bittersweet chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content.
- Temperature matters: When heating cream, watch it carefully. You want it to simmer, not boil, to create a smooth ganache.
- Chill thoroughly: Patience is key when making truffles. Allow sufficient chilling time for the ganache to firm up, making it easier to shape.
- Work quickly when rolling: Keep your hands cool and work fast to prevent the ganache from melting. You can even wear food-safe gloves to help maintain temperature.
- Customize your coating: While cocoa powder and powdered sugar are classic, you can experiment with finely chopped nuts, additional cocoa powder, or even edible glitter for a festive touch.
- Room temperature serving: Letting the truffles sit for 10-15 minutes before serving allows them to soften slightly, enhancing their creamy texture and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 95kcal
Carbohydrates: 7g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
