Name: Hazelnut Chocolate Truffles Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: ¾ cup cream (use coconut cream for dairy-free); 250 g good quality dark eating chocolate (around 70% cocoa), chopped; 50 ml hazelnut liqueur (e.g., Frangelico) – optional; 20 whole hazelnuts (optional); Desiccated coconut, cocoa powder, or fine coffee grinds (for rolling)

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Introduction

Indulge in the rich, velvety goodness of hazelnut chocolate truffles. These bite-sized treats combine smooth dark chocolate with a touch of hazelnut liqueur and a crunchy surprise inside, making them perfect for any special occasion or a decadent everyday dessert.

The image shows a small glass bowl with a smooth, thick layer of dark brown chocolate dough. A shiny silver ice cream scoop is in the bowl, pressing into the chocolate dough. To the right, a white plate holds seven round balls of the same dark brown dough, each with a slightly rough texture, spaced evenly across the plate. The whole scene sits on a dark wooden surface, giving contrast to the chocolate and the white plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

¾ cup cream (use coconut cream for dairy-free)
250 g good quality dark eating chocolate (around 70% cocoa), chopped
50 ml hazelnut liqueur (e.g. Frangelico) or other liqueur (optional)
20 whole hazelnuts (optional)
Desiccated coconut, cocoa powder, or fine coffee grinds to roll

Instructions

Step 1: Gently heat the cream until it almost comes to a boil, but do not let it fully boil. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped chocolate using a spatula until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This may take a few minutes.
Step 2: Mix in the hazelnut liqueur if using. Pour the mixture into a bowl or small dish and refrigerate for at least 3 hours until firm.
Step 3: Scoop teaspoons of the chilled mixture and roll into balls with your hands. If using whole hazelnuts, press one into the center of each ball and reshape it around the nut.
Step 4: Roll the truffles in desiccated coconut, cocoa powder, or finely ground coffee to coat. Return the truffles to the fridge until ready to serve.
Step 5: Before serving, let the truffles sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly for the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

Use coconut cream for a dairy-free version that still delivers rich creaminess.
Substitute hazelnut liqueur with brandy or orange liqueur for a different flavor twist.
Try rolling truffles in crushed nuts or powdered sugar for added texture and sweetness.
For an intense coffee flavor, use espresso powder mixed with cocoa for rolling.

Storage

Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To enjoy at their best, bring them to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. Truffles can also be frozen for up to one month; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

How to Serve

A round black plate filled with a large base layer of white shredded coconut, unevenly spread across it, holding two types of round chocolate truffles scattered on top; one type is dark brown with a smooth yet slightly rough texture, while the other is dark brown covered with a thick layer of white shredded coconut, creating a contrast in color and texture, all pieces imperfectly shaped. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these truffles without alcohol?

Yes, you can omit the hazelnut liqueur entirely or replace it with an equal amount of cream or a flavored syrup to keep the mixture smooth and flavorful.

How do I know when the chocolate mixture is ready to be rolled?

The mixture should be firm and chilled—refrigerate for at least 3 hours. It should hold its shape when scooped and rolled; if it’s too soft, refrigerate longer before shaping.