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These homemade Dark Chocolate Pistachio Truffles are an easy recipe that delivers pure indulgence in every bite. Made with just three simple ingredients, these truffles combine rich dark chocolate and cream cheese for a smooth center, all rolled in crunchy pistachios. Perfect for holiday gatherings or thoughtful homemade gifts, they're a delicious blend of elegance and simplicity.
Why You'll Love These Truffles
These truffles strike the perfect balance between rich chocolate and nutty crunch. With just three ingredients and no baking required, they're surprisingly simple to make yet look incredibly elegant. The cream cheese adds a subtle tanginess that complements the dark chocolate perfectly, while the pistachios provide both visual appeal and delightful texture. They're perfect for making ahead and ideal for gifting.
Ingredients for Chocolate Truffles
- For the Truffle Base:
- 12 ounces high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped
- Optional Additions:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
- Extra pistachios for coating
- Equipment Needed:
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
- Electric mixer
- Small cookie scoop or melon baller
- Parchment-lined baking sheet
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chocolate
- Melt chocolate using double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly but remain fluid.
- Mix the Base
- Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add melted chocolate, mixing until completely combined and silky.
- Chill Mixture
- Cover bowl and refrigerate 2 hours or until firm enough to scoop and roll.
- Form Truffles
- Using scoop or spoon, portion mixture into 1-inch balls. Roll between palms to smooth.
- Coat in Pistachios
- Roll each truffle in finely chopped pistachios, pressing gently to adhere. Place on lined baking sheet.
- Set and Chill
- Refrigerate truffles 1 hour until firm. Transfer to airtight container if not serving immediately.
Pro Tips for Success
Use high-quality chocolate like Ghirardelli or Lindt for best results. Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to prevent lumps. Keep hands cool while rolling truffles to prevent melting. Chop pistachios very finely for better adhesion. Work in batches to keep mixture chilled while shaping.
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Serving Suggestions
Arrange on decorative platter for parties. Package in small boxes lined with parchment paper for gifting. Serve slightly chilled but not cold for best flavor. Present alongside coffee or dessert wine. Consider creating variety by rolling some in cocoa powder or coconut.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Store in airtight container in refrigerator up to one week. Can be frozen for up to one month, thaw overnight in refrigerator. Let stand 15 minutes at room temperature before serving. For gifting, keep chilled until ready to present. Can be made several days ahead for events.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why use premium dark chocolate?
- Since there are only three ingredients, the quality of the chocolate significantly impacts the final taste. Premium chocolate ensures the best flavor.
- → Why cool the chocolate before mixing?
- The chocolate needs to cool to almost room temperature to prevent melting the cream cheese and ensure proper truffle texture.
- → How long do these last?
- When stored in a tightly covered container in the refrigerator, these truffles can last for up to two weeks.
- → Can I use different nuts?
- Yes, you could substitute the pistachios with other chopped nuts like almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans.
- → Why use a melon baller?
- A melon baller helps create uniform-sized truffles and makes the scooping process easier and neater.