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    Home » Recipes » Candy

    Hazelnut Espresso Truffles

    February 8, 2021 by Amee Leave a Comment

    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    We've all seen the heart-shaped boxes full of Valentine's Day chocolates. With rare exception, these mass-produced candies disappoint in flavor and (*resisting direct Forrest Gump quote*) who knows what you're actually taking a bite of. These Hazelnut Espresso Truffles are what your valentine really wants!

    Hazelnut Espresso Truffles

    This post may contain affiliate links, and as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I’ll never link to anything I don’t use and love! Click here for full disclosure and privacy policy.

    These Hazelnut Espresso Truffles take chocolate, hazelnuts, and espresso and turn them into a decadent treat! Although there is some chill time and several steps to complete, they really are easy to make and look so impressive!

    Hazelnut Espresso Truffles

    Espresso powder and hazelnuts aren't always available at your local grocery store. I use King Arthur Baking’s brand of espresso powder (link [here]), as it’s very fine and made specifically for baked goods.

    Hazelnut Espresso Truffles

    You can find hazelnuts online [here]. I placed one whole hazelnut in the center of each truffle, because I wanted the outsides to be smooth. For more texture, you could also mix chopped hazelnuts right into the filling before you chill it.

    Hazelnut Espresso Truffles

    Of course, I *had* to add chocolate extract, as I do with anything chocolate! Chocolate extract lends amazing flavor! You can find some for yourself [here], or even better, make yourself some [Homemade Chocolate Extract] for next time!

    Hazelnut Espresso Truffles

    I use a small cookie scoop (like this one [here]) to portion out my truffles. A scoop isn't a necessity, but the process is much cleaner and you end up with truffles that are uniform in size. Rolling the truffles is still a seriously messy business, but it's so worth it!

    Hazelnut Espresso Truffles

    These smooth, decadent truffles are roll-your-eyes good! I love it when a bite-sized treat can just make your day. I hope you try them soon!

    Other posts you may like:

    Chocolate Espresso Shortbread

    Mocha Tart

    Chocolate Champagne Truffles

    Mocha Sweet Rolls

    Mocha Swirl Cookies

    Hazelnut Espresso Truffles

    Amee
    Dark chocolate, hazelnuts, and espresso combine into a decadent treat! Beautiful and delicious!
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Course Dessert
    Cuisine Candy
    Servings 30 truffles
    Prevent your screen from going dark while you bake!

    Ingredients
      

    Hazelnut-Espresso Truffle Filling:

    • 8 oz chocolate, finely chopped (I used 60% cacao)
    • ¾ cup heavy (whipping) cream
    • 1 tablespoon espresso powder (see note)
    • 1 teaspoon chocolate extract (see note)
    • 30 whole hazelnuts, plus more (chopped fine) for sprinkling (see note)
    • unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting hands

    Chocolate Truffle Coating:

    • 8 oz chocolate, finely chopped (I used 60% cacao)
    • 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening

    Instructions
     

    For Truffle Filling:

    • Place chopped chocolate in a medium heatproof bowl. Set aside.
    • In another heatproof bowl or glass measuring cup, warm the cream in the microwave until nearly boiling.
    • Remove 2 tablespoons of the hot cream, pouring it into a small bowl. Dissolve the espresso powder (see note) in the cream.
    • Pour both the espresso mixture and the rest of the hot cream over the chopped chocolate. Stir until all chocolate has melted and the mixture is smooth. (If the chocolate doesn't melt completely, you can place it in the microwave for 15-second intervals until smooth).
    • Add chocolate extract (see note) and stir to combine. Allow truffle filling to set at least 4 hours in the refrigerator, or overnight at room temperature.
    • Once the truffle filling has set, scoop out truffles, about 1.5" each (see note). Place truffles on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least an hour.
    • Once chilled, place one hazelnut on top of each truffle (see note). Dust hands with cocoa powder (to keep the truffles from sticking) and roll each truffle into a ball, pushing the hazelnut into the center of the filling as you roll. Return to the refrigerator.

    For Truffle Coating:

    • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
    • In a small heatproof bowl, combine the chopped chocolate and vegetable shortening. Microwave on 30 second intervals, stirring after each interval, until melted and smooth.
    • Dip each truffle in melted chocolate, coating each completely, then set on the prepared baking sheet. Top with a drizzle of chocolate and chopped hazelnuts, if desired.
    • Allow chocolate to set either at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
      Enjoy!

    Notes

    Note on espresso powder: I’ve found it difficult to find espresso powder, especially one that’s fine in texture and isn’t already as hard as a rock. I use King Arthur Baking’s brand (link [here]), as it’s very fine and made specifically for baked goods.
    Note on chocolate extract: Chocolate extract lends amazing flavor to anything chocolate! You can find some for yourself [here], or even better, make yourself some [Homemade Chocolate Extract] for next time!
    Note on hazelnuts:  I can rarely find hazelnuts at my local grocery store. If you can't find them, they're online [here]. I placed one whole hazelnut in the center of each truffle, because I wanted the outsides to be smooth. For more texture, you could also mix chopped hazelnuts right into the filling before you chill it.
    Note on scooping truffles: I use a small cookie scoop (like this one [here]) to portion out my truffles. A scoop isn't a necessity, but the process is much cleaner and you end up with truffles that are uniform in size.
    Tried this recipe?I'd love to hear all about it! Leave a review below, then snap a pic and tag me on Instagram!
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