Chocolate Truffles

On the ninth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me...

Decadent chocolate truffles!

Truffles are the simplest candies to make, and with a couple of holiday flavorings, they can help bring the Christmas spirit.

Chocolate Truffles

Basic Truffle Ingredients

8 ounces of semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate (high quality, 62% cacao or higher), well chopped into small pieces
1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Optional Flavorings

3-4 drops peppermint essential oil*
3-4 drops wild orange essential oil*
3-4 drops cinnamon or cassia essential oil*

Truffle Coatings

Cocoa powder
Powdered sugar
Finely chopped walnuts or almonds

1 In a small, heavy saucepan bring the heavy whipping cream to a simmer (this may take a while, be sure to stir and scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula every few minutes). Add essential oils (if using) and mix.

2 Place the chocolate in a separate bowl. Pour the cream over the chocolate. Add the vanilla only if you're not using essential oils. Allow to stand for a few minutes , and then stir until smooth.

3 Allow to cool, then place in the refrigerator for two hours. Remove and with a teaspoon roll out balls. Roll in your hands quickly (as it will melt from the heat of your hands) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place in the refrigerator overnight.

4 Roll in cocoa powder or chopped nuts and serve, or place back in the refrigerator until needed.

Makes 30-40 chocolate truffles.

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*Use only PURE essential oils.  Check the label to be sure it is safe for internal use.

E-mail me for a free sample of the essential oil of your choice.  And don't forget to come back tomorrow for more 12 Days of Christmas ideas.