These truffles are unbelievably easy to make and taste great. I know that I have been on a health kick and have been generally avoiding sweets. I justify these because when I make them I know exactly what I put in and they just feel healthier. After the holidays I will post some healthier "hippy" chocolates using dates for sweetness and nuts for fat. Optional cayenne pepper, coconut powder are a nice touch but not necessary. Bring these to a potluck or present as a gift to loved ones.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup whipping cream (35%)
1 cup dark chocolate (chips/chunks) - best if you use something high quality
Cocoa (to dust)
Optional Ingredients:
1/8th tsp. Cayenne Pepper
Pinch of Salt
Coconut powder (to dust)
Instructions
1.) If using big chunks of chocolate cut into small bits. If using chocolate chips don`t worry about it. Place in a medium size bowl. If using optional cayenne or salt add these to the bowl.
2.)Heat the whipping cream in a pot to 175-180 degrees (f). If you don`t have a candy thermometer this is just at the point of boiling. Be careful not to let it over boil. If you want to make it easier you can set a pot with water on the element and put a smaller pot with cream inside that pot. This will take a little longer but will prevent you from scalding the cream.
3.) Pour the cream over the chocolate and stir with a spatula till fully mixed.
4.) Let the mixture cool for a 3-5 minutes then pour out onto a piece of plastic cling wrap. Roll this up into a tube and place in the refrigerator to cool.
5.) Once cooled, unwrap and slice into small pieces.
6.) If you are using coconut powder place some into a small bag. Put some of the pieces into the bag and toss to coat. If not skip to the next step.
7.) Place cocoa powder in a small bag. Place some of the pieces into the bag and toss to coat.
8.) Enjoy. Be sure to save some for your friends.