Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Finely chop 8 ounces of dark chocolate and place it in a heatproof bowl.
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium-low heat until it just begins to simmer.
- Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for about a minute to soften the chocolate.
- Gently whisk the mixture, starting from the center, until the chocolate is completely melted and the ganache is smooth and glossy. Do not over-whisk.
- Stir in the raspberry jam, softened butter, and raspberry liqueur (if using) until everything is well combined.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the ganache. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, until firm enough to scoop.
- Once the ganache is firm, use a small melon baller or a teaspoon to scoop out portions of the ganache. Roll each portion between your palms to form a smooth ball.
- Place the shaped truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet and return them to the refrigerator or freezer for another 30 minutes to firm up.
- Finely chop the remaining 12 ounces of dark chocolate.
- Melt the chocolate using a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval.
- If using shortening, stir it into the melted chocolate.
- Using a fork or dipping tools, carefully dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate, making sure it is completely coated. Gently tap off any excess chocolate.
- Immediately sprinkle the coated truffles with desired toppings, such as crushed freeze-dried raspberries, cocoa powder, sprinkles, or chopped nuts.
- Place the decorated truffles back on the parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
Notes
For a smoother chocolate coating, add vegetable shortening. If ganache is too soft, chill longer. Store truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Experiment with white or milk chocolate variations, citrus zest, or a pinch of chili powder for a spicy kick.
