Pin it
Let me share with you my most treasured chocolate recipe these divine Nutella truffles. I perfected these beauties in my home kitchen after countless experiments with different chocolates and techniques. The moment that silky smooth center meets your tongue with its perfect balance of Nutella goodness and subtle salt you'll understand why these have become my signature treat for special occasions.
Why These Truffles Shine
The magic of these truffles lies in their surprising complexity. Each bite starts with that gorgeous dark chocolate shell giving way to the creamiest Nutella center you can imagine. I love how versatile they are dressed up in cocoa powder they look artisanal and rustic while a chocolate coating transforms them into elegant confections. They've become my go to gift for friends who appreciate good chocolate.
Ingredients for Nutella Truffles
- Dark Chocolate: Use a chocolate with 54%-65% cocoa solids for a balanced sweetness and smooth ganache. Chop bar chocolate for best results.
- Heavy Cream: Opt for full-fat (40%) heavy cream to ensure a rich, stable ganache that doesn't break easily.
- Kosher Salt: Adds a subtle contrast to the sweetness, enhancing the flavors without overpowering.
- Nutella: The star of the recipe, providing signature hazelnut and chocolate notes.
- Hazelnut Flour: For rolling the truffles. Roasted, chopped hazelnuts can also be used for extra crunch.
- Cocoa Powder: Dutch-processed cocoa adds depth and color to the coating.
- Amaretto (Optional): A splash of hazelnut liqueur elevates the flavor, adding a luxurious touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the Cream
- Bring heavy cream just to a boil, ensuring even heating for a smooth ganache.
- Melt the Chocolate
- Pour the hot cream over chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let sit for 2 minutes, then whisk gently in one direction until fully melted and emulsified.
- Add Nutella
- Whisk Nutella into the ganache until smooth. Add a pinch of kosher salt and amaretto if desired.
- Chill the Ganache
- Transfer the ganache to the refrigerator for 1-2 hours or until firm enough to roll.
- Roll and Coat
- Scoop small portions of ganache and roll into balls. Coat in hazelnut flour or cocoa powder, or dip in melted chocolate for an enrobed finish.
Storage Tips and Shelf Life
These truffles keep beautifully in my favorite airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 weeks though they rarely last that long in my house! If you prefer them at room temperature they'll stay fresh for about 10 days. I avoid freezing them since it can affect their silky texture and that gorgeous flavor we worked so hard to achieve.
Creative Variations
I love playing with different flavors in my kitchen! Sometimes I'll roll the truffles in crushed pistachios for a pop of color. Adding fresh orange zest to the ganache creates the most wonderful citrus note. My personal favorite? A tiny pinch of espresso powder mixed into the ganache it makes the chocolate flavor absolutely sing.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These little gems have saved countless celebrations in my home. Whether I'm hosting an intimate dinner party or need a last-minute hostess gift they never disappoint. The way people's eyes light up when they bite into one of these truffles makes all the effort worthwhile.
Pro Tips for Success
After making hundreds of batches I've learned a few secrets. Watch that cream carefully you want it just barely boiling. My favorite French whisk makes the smoothest ganache just remember to stir in one direction. And don't rush the chilling process that patience results in perfectly shaped truffles every time.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This recipe holds such a special place in my heart. It's simple enough for beginners yet creates something truly spectacular. The balance of flavors the luxurious texture it all comes together in these perfect little bites. Every time I make them I fall in love with chocolate making all over again.
Serving Ideas
In my home we love serving these truffles as part of a dessert board. I arrange them alongside fresh raspberries and pair them with a bold red wine or espresso. For special occasions I'll create a whole chocolate experience mixing these with other handmade treats the combinations are endless!
Make It Your Own
The beauty of this recipe is how easily it adapts to your taste. Sometimes I'll mix in crushed pretzels for that sweet salty crunch or swirl in a bit of Frangelico for extra hazelnut goodness. Don't be afraid to experiment that's how all the best recipes are born!
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What if my ganache breaks?
Whisk in very cold heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until smooth. While not perfect, it will still make delicious truffles.
- → How long do these truffles last?
They keep for 4 weeks in the refrigerator or 10 days at room temperature. Store in an airtight container for best results.
- → Can I use different chocolate?
Yes, though 55% dark chocolate is recommended. Lower cocoa content makes the truffles very sweet due to the Nutella.
- → Can I freeze these truffles?
While possible, freezing isn't recommended as it can affect the texture and flavor of the chocolate.
- → What can I roll the truffles in?
Cocoa powder and crushed hazelnuts work well, or you can dip them in tempered chocolate for an enrobed finish.