Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary flavors in these truffles?
The truffles feature a rich, velvety chocolate flavor infused with the luscious taste of fresh raspberries.
Who contributed the Decadent Chocolate Raspberry Bliss Truffles recipe?
The recipe was contributed by Michelle Polzine.
Where was this recipe originally published?
It was featured in 'Grow,' Volume 1, 2009 by vegetablegardener.com.
How many ingredients are needed for this recipe?
There are 5 main ingredients: fresh raspberries, chocolate, heavy cream, salt, and cocoa powder.
How do I prepare the raspberry puree?
Pass fresh raspberries through a food mill with a fine disk or press them through a fine sieve to remove seeds.
How much raspberry puree should 1 cup of fresh raspberries yield?
One cup of fresh raspberries should yield approximately 1/2 cup of puree.
What type of chocolate is best for these truffles?
The recipe recommends using either semisweet or bittersweet chocolate for the best results.
How much chocolate is required for the recipe?
You will need 1 lb of finely chopped chocolate.
What quantity of heavy cream is used?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream.
How should the heavy cream be heated?
Heat the cream over medium heat until it just begins to boil, then remove it immediately from the heat.
How do I combine the chocolate and the cream?
Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate, let it sit for 1-2 minutes, then whisk until smooth.
At what point do I add the raspberry puree to the chocolate?
Stir in the raspberry puree and salt after the chocolate and cream mixture is fully combined and smooth.
How long does the truffle mixture need to be refrigerated?
Refrigerate the mixture for about one hour until it is completely chilled and firm enough to scoop.
What is the recommended size for the truffles?
The mixture should be rolled into approximately 1-inch balls.
What tools can be used to scoop the chocolate mixture?
You can use a melon-baller or a simple teaspoon to portion out the truffles.
What is used to coat the finished truffles?
The truffles are rolled in unsweetened Dutch-processed cocoa powder.
How should the truffles be stored?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
How long will these raspberry truffles keep?
They will stay fresh for approximately one week when refrigerated.
Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen raspberries; simply thaw them before pureeing and straining.
What should I do if the mixture is too soft to roll into balls?
Place the scooped portions on a baking sheet and refrigerate them briefly to firm up before rolling.
Is the cocoa powder inside the truffle or only on the outside?
The cocoa powder is used strictly for the outer coating to provide a sophisticated finish.
Can I substitute the cocoa powder with something else?
While the recipe calls for cocoa, you could use powdered sugar or finely chopped nuts as alternatives.
Why is it important to strain the raspberry puree?
Straining ensures a smooth texture by removing the seeds and pulp from the raspberries.
Does this recipe require any added sugar?
No extra sugar is added; the sweetness comes from the chocolate and the natural sugars in the raspberries.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet?
Yes, but the truffles will be much sweeter and softer, so you may need to adjust the chilling time.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, the recipe is described as surprisingly easy to make despite its sophisticated appearance.
What is the purpose of adding salt to the mixture?
A small amount of salt enhances the flavor of both the chocolate and the fruit.
Should the cream be boiled for a long time?
No, you should remove the cream from the heat the moment it begins to boil to avoid scorching.
Are these truffles gluten-free?
The core ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check your chocolate and cocoa powder labels.
Can these truffles be frozen for longer storage?
Yes, you can freeze them in an airtight container, though the texture is best when enjoyed fresh.