5 Ingredient Peppermint Chocolate Truffles Recipe
These 5 Ingredient Peppermint Chocolate Truffles combine rich dark chocolate with a refreshing hint of peppermint, making a perfect festive treat. Simple to prepare with just a few ingredients, these truffles feature a smooth, creamy ganache center coated in tempered dark chocolate and decorated with crushed candy canes. Ideal for holiday gifting or indulging yourself with a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 25 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ganache
- 6 oz (170g) dark chocolate (55-65% cocoa), finely chopped
- ½ cup (120ml) 35% whipping cream
- ½ tsp espresso powder (optional)
- ¼ to ½ tsp pure peppermint extract (optional)
- pinch of salt
Coating
- 10 oz (284g) dark chocolate for dipping
- Crushed candy cane for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the ganache base: Place the finely chopped dark chocolate in a medium heatproof bowl and set aside.
- Heat the cream: In a small saucepan, combine the whipping cream with espresso powder if using. Heat over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from the heat immediately.
- Make the ganache: Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate carefully. Cover the bowl and let it rest undisturbed for 2 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt. Then, gently stir starting from the center in small concentric circles gradually expanding outward until the ganache is smooth, glossy, and thick. Stir in the peppermint extract and a pinch of salt.
- Chill the ganache: Let the ganache cool uncovered for 1 hour at room temperature. Then cover it and refrigerate until firm, about 1-2 hours.
- Form the truffles: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the firm ganache and quickly roll them into smooth balls. Place the balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate to firm up further.
- Temper the chocolate: While the truffles chill, temper the 10 oz of dark chocolate using your preferred tempering method to ensure a glossy, crisp coating.
- Dip and garnish: Dip each truffle into the tempered chocolate, coating thoroughly. Return the coated truffles to the tray and immediately sprinkle with crushed candy cane pieces before the chocolate sets completely.
- Set the truffles: Allow the dipped truffles to set at room temperature or in the refrigerator until the coating hardens, about 15-30 minutes.
Notes
- Espresso powder is optional but enhances the depth of chocolate flavor.
- Adjust peppermint extract to your taste; start with a small amount as it is potent.
- Tempering chocolate ensures a shiny finish and a snap when bitten.
- You can use candy cane pieces, crushed peppermint candies, or leave plain.
- Store truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
