Sea buckthorn & strawberry truffles

Ingredients

Truffles

40 grams (1.4 ounces) sea buckthorn puree
40 grams (1.4 ounces) strawberry puree
20 grams (0.7 ounces) cocoa butter
200 grams (7.1 ounces) white chocolate 32%
45 grams (1.6 ounces) butter
10 grams (0.35 ounces) honey

Equipment

Blender
Essential for achieving a smooth ganache. Make sure it’s powerful enough to blend the ingredients thoroughly.
Saucepan
Used to bring the puree mixture to a boil. Aim for even heating for the best results.
Refrigerator
This is crucial for allowing your truffles to stabilize and set properly. Ensure it’s set to the correct temperature for optimal results.
Freezer
Needed to freeze the truffles before coating, which helps achieve that perfect finish.
Chocolate Tempering Tools
Tools like a double boiler or a microwave can help temper the white chocolate just right.

Instructions

Step 1

Combine the sea buckthorn puree, strawberry puree, and cocoa butter in a saucepan. Ensure they are well mixed before heating.

Step 2

Bring the mixture to a boil. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.

Step 3

Pour this hot mixture over the white chocolate in a separate bowl. Beat with an immersion blender until smooth. Make sure all the chocolate has melted.

Step 4

When the temperature of the chocolate mixture is below 104°F (40°C), add the room temperature butter and honey. This will help the ingredients blend uniformly.

Step 5

Blend the ganache with the immersion blender until it is smooth. Avoid over-blending to maintain the right consistency.

Step 6

Refrigerate the ganache for 12-24 hours to stabilize. Cover the bowl to prevent any refrigerator odors from affecting the ganache.

Step 7

After stabilization, roll the mixture into balls weighing about 16 grams each. You should get approximately 19 truffles from this mixture.

Step 8

Freeze the truffles for several hours. This makes it easier to coat them with white chocolate.

Step 9

Cover the frozen truffles with tempered white chocolate. Work quickly to ensure the chocolate sets properly.

Step 10

Store the truffles in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Servings

Eager to present your gorgeous truffles? 🎉

For a party platter: Arrange the truffles on a decorative plate with a scattering of fresh berries and mint leaves for a pop of color. 🥂

Gifting: Package them in a chic box with individual paper liners. Perfect for holidays and special occasions! 🎁

Sweet ending: Serve alongside a creamy cappuccino or a fragrant cup of tea for an indulgent afternoon treat. 🫖

Sophisticated dessert: Place a couple of truffles on a plate with a drizzle of berry coulis and edible flowers. Your guests will love the elegance. 🍓

Variations

Gluten-Free Variation 🌾🚫: Good news! This truffle recipe is already gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Ensure all your ingredients, especially the chocolate, are certified gluten-free.

Vegan Variation 🌱💚: Replace the white chocolate with a dairy-free version and use a plant-based butter like coconut or almond butter. Swap the honey with agave syrup or maple syrup to keep it vegan-friendly.

Faq

Why is my ganache not smooth?
If your ganache ends up lumpy, it could be due to curdled chocolate or overheating. Be sure to blend the mixture thoroughly and keep a watch on the temperature.
Can I use regular chocolate instead of white chocolate?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of chocolate, but it will change the flavor profile of your truffles. Dark or milk chocolate will work, but adjust the sweetness accordingly.
How long can I store the truffles?
These truffles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze the truffles?
Yes, you can freeze them after they are coated with chocolate. They will last up to a month. Just ensure they are properly stored in a sealed container to avoid freezer burn.
How can I ensure the chocolate coating is smooth?
Tempering your chocolate properly is key. Use a candy thermometer if you're using a double boiler, or follow microwave instructions carefully to avoid overheating.
What can I use for decoration?
Decorate your truffles with a dusting of cocoa powder, sprinkles, or edible glitter. You can also drizzle some dark chocolate for a more sophisticated look.