Truffle Chocolate Recipe - Kosher - (Classic Dark Chocolate Ganache Truffles)

Rich, velvety, and intensely chocolate-forward, these kosher truffle chocolates are made with a smooth ganache center and finished with a delicate cocoa dusting or chocolate shell. Ideal for gifting, holiday platters, or elegant dessert service.

Recipe Overview

Servings: 24 truffles
Yield: Approximately 1 pound (450 g)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 1–2 hours
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: About 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy–Intermediate
Cooking Vessel: Medium saucepan, heatproof bowl, whisk or spatula, sheet pan, parchment paper

Ingredients

For the Ganache:

8 oz (225 g) high-quality kosher-certified dark chocolate (60–70% cacao), finely chopped
½ cup (120 ml) kosher heavy cream (chalav Yisrael if required)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (kosher-certified), room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (kosher-certified)
Pinch of kosher salt

For Coating (Choose One or More):

¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (kosher-certified)
8 oz (225 g) melted dark chocolate (for dipped shell)
Finely chopped nuts (optional)
Powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ganache

Place the finely chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer (small bubbles around the edges). Do not boil.
Pour the hot cream over the chocolate. Let sit undisturbed for 2–3 minutes.
Gently whisk from the center outward until smooth and glossy.
Add butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until fully incorporated.

2. Chill

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing it lightly against the surface.
Refrigerate for 1–2 hours, or until firm enough to scoop.

3. Shape the Truffles

Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion about 1 tablespoon per truffle.
Roll quickly between your palms to form smooth balls.
Place on prepared sheet pan.

4. Coat

Cocoa-Dusted: Roll each truffle in cocoa powder until evenly coated.
Chocolate Shell: Dip chilled truffles into melted chocolate using a fork. Tap gently to remove excess and set on parchment.
Allow coated truffles to set at room temperature or refrigerate briefly.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Truffle)

Calories: 110
Fat: 9 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Sugar: 6 g
Protein: 1 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sodium: 10 mg

Values will vary based on chocolate brand and coating choice.

Dietary Adaptations

Dairy-Free / Parve:
Substitute coconut cream or non-dairy whipping cream and replace butter with vegan butter or 1 tablespoon neutral oil. Ensure chocolate is certified pareve.
Vegan:
Use plant-based cream and butter substitutes. Confirm all ingredients are vegan-certified.
Gluten-Free:
Naturally gluten-free; verify chocolate and vanilla are certified gluten-free.
Sugar-Free / Low-Carb:
Use sugar-free dark chocolate (kosher-certified) and omit powdered sugar coatings.

Tips & Troubleshooting

Ganache Too Soft: Chill longer or add 1–2 tablespoons additional melted chocolate.
Ganache Too Firm: Let sit at room temperature 10–15 minutes before scooping.
Grainy Texture: Likely overheated cream or chocolate seized. Add 1 teaspoon warm cream and whisk gently to restore emulsion.
Melting During Rolling: Work quickly and chill hands under cold water; dry thoroughly before handling.
For Ultra-Smooth Finish: Wear food-safe gloves while rolling.

Serving Suggestions

Arrange in mini cupcake liners for elegant presentation.
Pair with kosher red wine, espresso, or mint tea.
Serve alongside fresh berries for contrast.
Add a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt for gourmet appeal.

Storage Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture and flavor.
Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in refrigerator.

Flavor Variations

Orange Zest: Add 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest to ganache.
Espresso: Stir in ½ teaspoon espresso powder.
Raspberry: Add 1 tablespoon raspberry liqueur (kosher-certified).
Hazelnut: Replace 1 tablespoon cream with kosher hazelnut liqueur.

These kosher truffle chocolates deliver a luxurious, confectionery-quality result with minimal equipment and straightforward technique—perfect for Shabbat desserts, Yom Tov platters, or refined homemade gifting.