Chocolate Scotch Truffles

Scotch Truffles Recipe from Scotland with Unsweetened Chocolate and Whiskey

Region / culture: Scotland | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 30

Introduction

Chocolate Scotch Truffles are a decadent and rich dessert that combines the flavors of unsweetened chocolate, Scotch whiskey, and toasted hazelnuts. These truffles are perfect for special occasions or as a luxurious treat for yourself.

History

The origins of chocolate truffles can be traced back to France in the late 19th century. These confections were named after the luxurious truffle fungus due to their similar appearance. Over time, variations of the traditional truffle recipe have emerged, including the addition of Scotch whiskey for a unique twist.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) of good-quality unsweetened chocolate
2 egg yolks
1 cup of confectioner's sugar
0.5 cup of heavy or whipping cream
4 tbsp (0.5 stick) of unsalted butter
0.25 cup of Scotch whiskey
30 whole shelled hazelnuts
1 cup of sifted unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Place 10 oz (283 g) of chocolate in a heavy saucepan and melt over low heat.
Remove the pan from the heat and set aside.
Combine the egg yolks and 0.5 cup of confectioner's sugar in a large bowl, and cream until well blended.
Combine the cream, butter, and remaining 0.5 cup sugar in a medium-sized saucepan and bring to a boil, stirring until the butter and sugar are thoroughly melted.
Slowly pour the hot sugar mixture over the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly.
Mix thoroughly and set aside to cool slightly.
Then stir in the melted chocolate and the scotch; beat for 1 minute.
Place the mixture in the refrigerator and chill until firm, 30 to 45 minutes.
Meanwhile, place the hazelnuts on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 15 minutes.
Remove them from the oven and rub handfuls of nuts in a kitchen towel to remove the skins.
Set them aside.
Roll a spoonful of the chilled chocolate around each hazelnut to form a truffle about 1 inch in diameter.
Set them on a baking sheet lined with waxed paper, and chill thoroughly in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 hours.
Melt the remaining 14 oz (397 g) chocolate in a heavy saucepan over low heat.
Remove the pan from the heat.
Sprinkle a shallow dish generously with cocoa.
Dip each truffle in the melted chocolate, covering it completely.
Then lift it out with a fork and roll it in the cocoa.
Arrange the truffles on the baking sheet again, and chill before serving.

Variations

Substitute the hazelnuts with almonds or pistachios for a different flavor.
Use different types of whiskey or liqueur for a unique twist.
Roll the truffles in crushed nuts or coconut for added texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use good-quality unsweetened chocolate for the best flavor.

- Be sure to chill the chocolate mixture before rolling it into truffles to make the process easier.

- Toasting the hazelnuts adds a delicious nutty flavor to the truffles.

- Dusting the truffles with cocoa powder adds a beautiful finish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chocolate Scotch Truffles as a dessert at a dinner party or gift them in a decorative box for a special occasion.

Cooking Techniques

Melting chocolate over low heat ensures a smooth and creamy texture.

- Chilling the chocolate mixture before rolling it into truffles helps them hold their shape.

- Toasting the hazelnuts enhances their flavor and adds a crunchy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use dark chocolate instead of unsweetened chocolate for a sweeter truffle.

- Replace the Scotch whiskey with rum or brandy for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute the hazelnuts with walnuts or pecans for a nut-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Chocolate Scotch Truffles can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Simply remove them from the fridge 30 minutes before serving to allow them to come to room temperature.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the Chocolate Scotch Truffles on a decorative platter and garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or chopped nuts for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Chocolate Scotch Truffles with a glass of Scotch whiskey or a cup of coffee for a delightful pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Chocolate Scotch Truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chocolate Scotch Truffles contains approximately 220 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chocolate Scotch Truffles contains approximately 12 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chocolate Scotch Truffles contains approximately 18 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Chocolate Scotch Truffles contains approximately 3 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chocolate Scotch Truffles are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Chocolate Scotch Truffles contain nuts and dairy.

Summary

Chocolate Scotch Truffles are a rich and indulgent dessert that should be enjoyed in moderation due to their high fat and calorie content.

Summary

Chocolate Scotch Truffles are a luxurious and indulgent dessert that combines the rich flavors of unsweetened chocolate, Scotch whiskey, and toasted hazelnuts. These truffles are perfect for special occasions or as a decadent treat for yourself. Enjoy in moderation due to their high fat and calorie content.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for the first time. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old cookbook that belonged to my great-grandmother. As I flipped through the yellowed pages, a handwritten note fell out, revealing the secret to making Chocolate Scotch Truffles.

I had always been a lover of sweets, and the thought of combining chocolate and scotch in a decadent truffle was too tempting to resist. I immediately set to work gathering the ingredients and following the instructions carefully. As I mixed and melted and rolled the truffles in cocoa powder, I could already taste the rich, velvety goodness that awaited me.

The first bite was pure bliss. The smooth, creamy chocolate melted on my tongue, while the hint of scotch added a subtle warmth and depth of flavor. I knew right then and there that this recipe was something special, something that I would cherish and pass down to future generations.

Over the years, I perfected the recipe, making adjustments here and there to suit my taste. I added a touch of sea salt to enhance the sweetness of the chocolate, and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a hint of spice. Each batch of truffles I made was a labor of love, a tribute to the culinary traditions that had been passed down through my family for generations.

I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who marveled at the decadent treat that seemed to melt in their mouths. They begged me to make more, and soon I found myself whipping up batch after batch of Chocolate Scotch Truffles to satisfy the cravings of those who had tasted their deliciousness.

As the years passed, I continued to make the truffles for special occasions and holidays. They became a staple at family gatherings, a beloved treat that everyone looked forward to enjoying. I reveled in the joy and satisfaction that came from sharing something so delicious and comforting with those I loved.

One day, as I was making a fresh batch of truffles, my granddaughter came into the kitchen and watched me with wide-eyed curiosity. She asked me about the recipe and how I had come to discover it. I smiled and told her the story of the old cookbook and the handwritten note that had sparked my passion for creating these delectable treats.

I could see the spark of interest in her eyes, the same spark that had ignited within me all those years ago. I knew then that I had found a kindred spirit, someone who shared my love of cooking and creating something special from simple ingredients.

Together, my granddaughter and I spent hours in the kitchen, mixing and melting and rolling truffles in cocoa powder. We laughed and talked and shared stories of our family and the traditions that had shaped us. And as we sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor, I knew that the legacy of the Chocolate Scotch Truffles would live on for generations to come.

In that moment, surrounded by the warmth and love of my family, I felt a sense of peace and contentment. I knew that the recipe for Chocolate Scotch Truffles would continue to bring joy and happiness to those who tasted them, just as it had for me all those years ago.

And as I passed the recipe down to my granddaughter, I knew that it would become a cherished tradition, a link that connected us to the past and to each other. In that simple, delicious treat, we found a bond that would endure long after I was gone, a reminder of the love and laughter that had filled our kitchen and our hearts.

As I watched my granddaughter savoring her first bite of a homemade Chocolate Scotch Truffle, I knew that the thrill of stumbling upon that recipe for the first time would always hold a special place in my heart. And I was grateful for the memories and the moments that had brought me to this sweet and satisfying place in my life.