Using the Portland Truffle DIY Chocolate Truffle Starter Kit takes just 5 simple steps:
1. Melt
2. Mix
3. Chill
4. Scoop
5. Top
The basic steps are covered in the kit instructions. But, there is always more to the story! These expanded instructions give you more detailed explanation, tips on what to watch out for and tricks to make your chocolates over-the-top delicious. If you're the visual type, you can also check out instagram.com/portlandtruffle for our videos.
Let's get started!
In your Chocolate Truffle Starter Kit, you should find these items:
- Metal scoop
- Chocolate discs
- Topping
- Plastic gloves
- Candy cups
- Gift box
- Stretch loop
You will also need:
- Heavy cream or coconut cream (NOT coconut milk)
- Mixing bowl and spoon
- Microwave
- Refrigerator
Step 1: Melt
Pour chocolate into a microwave safe bowl. Add heavy cream or coconut cream in the following amounts:
- For dark chocolate: 1/4 cup heavy cream or 2.5 Tablespoons coconut cream
- For milk chocolate: 3 Tablespoons heavy cream or 2 Tablespoons coconut cream
- For vanilla chocolate: 3 Tablespoons heavy cream or 2 Tablespoons coconut cream
Microwave 20 seconds, then stir well.
Step 2: Mix
Continue to microwave 20 seconds at a time, stirring after each, until chocolate is mostly melted but with a few larger chunks still remaining. Stir vigorously until mixture is glossy and smooth.
Step 3: Chill
Refrigerate 20-30 minutes, until firm enough to scoop. For faster chilling, pour into a shallow layer in a larger container, then chill. Mixture can chill for up to a week before moving on to Step 4 - just cover tightly and refrigerate.
Step 4: Scoop
Using the metal scoop, scoop rounded spoonfuls of the mixture and drop onto a plate or sheet of parchment. If mixture is too firm to scoop, allow it to sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes. If mixture is too soft to scoop, return to refrigerator for an additional 10-20 minutes.
Step 5: Top
Pour your topping into a small bowl. With plastic gloves, roll each scoop of your chocolate mixture between your palms until smooth and round. Drop into topping, roll and press crumbs to adhere. If the crumbs refuse to stick, try warming your ganache slightly by rolling longer between your palms, or crush your topping into smaller crumbs.
Step 6: Gift (and Eat!)
Set each finished truffle in a small candy cup, place in gift box and finish with stretch loop. Eat the extras!