Name: Chocolate Bourbon Truffles Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; ⅔ cup heavy cream; Pinch of salt; 1 teaspoon bourbon; ⅔ cup roasted hazelnuts, finely chopped

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Introduction

Chocolate Bourbon Truffles are a decadent treat combining rich semi-sweet chocolate with a hint of smooth bourbon and crunchy roasted hazelnuts. These bite-sized delights are perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave a luxurious homemade dessert.

The image shows several round chocolate truffles on a white bowl with a white marbled surface underneath. Each truffle has two layers: a smooth, dark chocolate center with a rich, fudgy texture, and an outer layer covered in crushed light brown nuts that add a rough, crunchy texture. One truffle is partially bitten, showing the thick, soft dark chocolate inside. The truffles fill the bowl closely, highlighting their round shape and crunchy coating. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
⅔ cup heavy cream
Pinch of salt
1 teaspoon bourbon
⅔ cup roasted hazelnuts, finely chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Warm the heavy cream by pouring it into a saucepan and bringing it to a gentle simmer, or microwave it in a mixing bowl for 30 seconds to 1 minute until hot.
Step 2: Place the chocolate, butter, and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for one minute.
Step 3: Whisk the mixture until the chocolate is fully melted and forms a smooth, glossy ganache.
Step 4: Add the bourbon and whisk again until well combined.
Step 5: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours until the ganache is firm.
Step 6: Once set, scoop the ganache and roll it into small balls. Then, coat each ball in the finely chopped roasted hazelnuts.
Step 7: Place the truffles on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour to set before transferring to an airtight container.

Tips & Variations

For a different flavor, try substituting bourbon with flavored liqueurs like hazelnut or orange.
Use dark or milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a sweeter or more intense taste.
Chill the ganache until firm but still slightly soft for easier rolling.
Try rolling the truffles in cocoa powder or crushed nuts other than hazelnuts for variety.

Storage

Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Before serving, let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to soften slightly for the best texture and flavor. Truffles can also be frozen for up to three months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with nine round truffles, each coated in a rough layer of chopped light brown nuts covering a dark chocolate center. The truffles are tightly packed, showing their uneven textures with some nut pieces scattered loosely around the bowl and on the white marbled surface below. The background is softly blurred with hints of a white cup and a dark gray object, giving focus to the nutty truffles. 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 bourbon or replace it with vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

How do I know when the ganache is ready to roll?

The ganache should be firm enough to hold its shape when scooped but still soft enough to roll smoothly without cracking. Refrigerate until it reaches this consistency, usually 1 to 2 hours.