Get ready for sticky fingers as you tuck into the rich, velvety goodness of chocolate balls. Whether you would like to treat your children or you simply have a chocolate craving that cannot be tamed, these delectable desserts will surpass all of your expectations.
Festive treat to an after-dinner delicacy
These chocolate balls were created by Chef Auguste Escoffier in the 1920s as a show-stopping treat for the festive season. Although this confectionary was an expensive treat that was only indulged in on special occasions, its popularity grew exponentially in just a few short years. Now, you are able to purchase these chocolatey treats at any grocery store with a wide variety of fillings. This means that they are no longer saved for special events; instead, everyone has the opportunity to savour each bite whenever the mood strikes.
The French-Italian inspiration
These treats are also known as chocolate truffles. They gained this name due to their close resemblance to savoury truffles from the French Perigord area and the Piedmont region in Italy. Although they were made exclusively from chocolate, modern variants of this dessert are filled with an assortment of fillings like nuts and flavoured creams.
The moulding of perfection
Most chocolate balls are created similarly. First, chocolate is melted over a double boiler before the cream is added. The mixture is then left to cool in the fridge. Once it is set, a measuring spoon is used to scoop out a small amount of chocolate, which is then rolled into a ball before being coated in cocoa. Depending on who is preparing the candy, a filling might be shaped into a ball first before being coated in the set chocolate and cream. Other variations are dipped into tempered chocolate, which is left to harden before being served.
Melt into the goodness
There are several different ways to enjoy chocolate truffles. Although they are great at any time, they make an exceptionally good dessert. Serve your guests a cup of hot coffee with two chocolate balls on the side, instead of biscuits. Alternatively, you could chop them up and serve them as a topping over your favourite frozen treat.
The quality of the chocolate balls depends entirely on the quality of the ingredients that are used during preparation. Therefore, it is essential to buy your truffles at a recognised chocolaterie. Qualified chocolatiers know how to enhance the best qualities in their ingredients so that there is no disappointment when you enjoy the final product. Visit The Dark Gallery and try their unbelievable Artisanal Chocolate Bon Bons: choose from several flavours like salted caramel, hazelnut praline or dark chocolate and mint.
