5-Ingredient Espresso Truffles

These espresso chocolate truffles are a dream for anyone who loves rich chocolate with a bold coffee kick. They come together with just five ingredients and offer a gourmet touch without demanding hours in the kitchen. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a little homemade luxury.

I first made these to surprise a friend who loves coffee and chocolate combos now they are a staple at holidays and special occasions

Ingredients

• Semisweet chocolate: finely chopped for a smooth, balanced sweetness choose good quality chocolate with at least 60 percent cocoa for best flavor
• Heavy cream: brings richness and creaminess opt for full fat for the best texture
• Espresso powder: adds bold coffee notes pick fresh powder for an intense taste
• Unsalted butter: cut into small cubes at room temperature helps create a silky ganache and adds a glossy finish
• Espresso or coffee beans: to top the truffles for a decorative, coffee-inspired touch choose shiny, unblemished beans

Instructions

Build The Ganache:

Place the finely chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl making it easier to melt evenly

Bring The Cream To Boil:

Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to boil then remove from heat

Whisk In Espresso:

Stir espresso powder into the hot cream until fully dissolved

Pour Cream Over Chocolate:

Pour the hot espresso cream mixture over the chopped chocolate allowing it to rest untouched for two minutes so the chocolate softens

Whisk Until Smooth:

Whisk the mixture vigorously until the ganache becomes smooth and glossy

Add Butter:

Incorporate the room temperature butter in small pieces whisking until fully melted and combined for added richness

Cool and Chill:

Let the ganache cool to room temperature then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for two hours until firm enough to scoop

Prepare For Rolling:

Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup

Scoop and Roll:

Using a teaspoon measure out about three teaspoons of ganache at a time quickly roll each into a smooth ball between your palms Place the truffles on the lined sheets

Chill Again:

Refrigerate the rolled truffles for at least twenty minutes to firm them before coating

Temper The Chocolate:

Fill a medium pot one-third full with water and bring it to a gentle simmer Set a heatproof bowl on top of the pot making sure it does not touch the water melt about two thirds of the chocolate stirring frequently making sure temperature does not go above one hundred twenty degrees Fahrenheit

Remove From Heat And Seed:

Remove bowl from heat add the remaining chocolate a bit at a time stirring to cool and thicken the chocolate to eighty two degrees Fahrenheit

Reheat:

Place the bowl back over the simmering water heating the chocolate to between eighty eight and ninety one degrees Fahrenheit for a smooth glossy finish

Coat The Truffles:

Using a fork or candy dipper dip each truffle into the tempered chocolate letting excess drip off before placing it back on the parchment topped with two espresso beans

Set To Set:

Allow the coated truffles to sit at room temperature for about one hour until the chocolate hardens Store properly to maintain texture and freshness

This recipe has brought our family together during holidays with joyful moments of sharing and indulgence.

Storage Tips

Store truffles in an airtight container at room temperature keeping them away from heat and direct sunlight to prevent melting Refrigeration can extend shelf life but may dull the chocolate sheen to maintain gloss allow truffles to come to room temperature before serving

Ingredient Swaps

Heavy cream can be replaced with full fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version Espresso powder can be swapped with instant coffee granules if needed just use a bit less Butter might be replaced with coconut oil but it can alter the texture slightly

Serving Ideas

Serve these truffles alongside a hot cup of espresso or black coffee to highlight the coffee flavor Top with a sprinkle of sea salt or cocoa powder for a different twist Pair with a liqueur like coffee or chocolate amaretto for an elegant dessert option

Seasonal Twists

Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the ganache for a warm holiday vibe Switch out the espresso beans for finely chopped toasted hazelnuts in autumn Use mint extract along with the espresso for a refreshing springtime variation

With patience in preparation and attention to detail, these truffles will impress anyone lucky enough to try them.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ How does espresso powder affect the truffle flavor?

Espresso powder intensifies the coffee notes without adding liquid, giving the truffles a robust, deep flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.

→ Why is tempering the chocolate important?

Tempering the chocolate ensures it cools with a shiny, smooth coating and a firm snap, preventing dullness or bloom on the surface.

→ Can I adjust the espresso flavor intensity?

Yes, increasing or decreasing espresso powder adjusts the coffee strength, allowing a milder or more pronounced taste.

→ What is the purpose of chilling the truffle mixture?

Chilling firms the mixture making it easier to scoop and shape the truffles without melting or losing form.

→ How should these truffles be stored?

Store truffles in an airtight container at room temperature or a cool, dry place to maintain texture for up to one week.

→ What role does butter play in this preparation?

Butter adds richness, smoothness, and helps create a glossy texture in the truffle filling.