Chocolate Balls With Cherry Cordial Centers
Description
These decadent chocolate balls are the perfect balance of sweet, rich, and boozy. The heart of each truffle is a candied cherry soaked in cherry brandy, providing a burst of fruity cordial flavor with every bite. The exterior is a dense, fudgy chocolate mixture made from butter, powdered sugar, and a blend of sweet milk and unsweetened baking chocolate. The result is a sophisticated dessert that feels luxurious yet is surprisingly straightforward to assemble. Ideal for holiday gift baskets, elegant dinner parties, or simply indulging in a treat with your evening coffee. They store beautifully in the fridge, making them a wonderful make-ahead option for special occasions.Ingredients
Directions
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Soak the candied cherries in the cherry brandy overnight or for at least 4 hours to infuse them with flavor.
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Drain the cherries, reserving the brandy soaking liquid for later use.
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In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until smooth and light.
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Melt the sweet milk chocolate and unsweetened baking chocolate together in a double boiler, stirring until smooth.
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Gradually spoon the melted chocolate into the butter and sugar mixture, mixing thoroughly by hand after each addition until fully combined.
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Stir the reserved cherry brandy into the chocolate mixture, adding it slowly until all the liquid is absorbed and the mixture holds together.
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Mix in the 3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder by hand until evenly distributed.
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Place the chocolate mixture in the freezer for about 20-30 minutes, or until it is chilled and stiff enough to handle.
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While the mixture chills, mix equal amounts of powdered sugar and unsweetened cocoa powder in a small bowl to create a coating mixture.
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Dust a clean work surface or waxed paper generously with the cocoa-sugar mixture.
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Remove the chilled chocolate mixture from the freezer. Take a heaping teaspoon of the mixture and place it on the dusted surface.
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Dip your fingers in the cocoa-sugar mixture to prevent sticking, then flatten the chocolate portion into a small disc.
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Place one soaked cherry in the center of the chocolate disc and fold the chocolate up and around the cherry to encase it completely.
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Gently roll the ball between your palms to form a smooth sphere.
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Roll the finished ball in the remaining cocoa-sugar mixture to coat the exterior.
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Repeat the process for each cherry, returning the chocolate mixture to the freezer if it becomes too soft to handle.
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Store the completed chocolate balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 22.5kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.1g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 0.5mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 5.4g2%
- Dietary Fiber 0.7g3%
- Sugars 3.8g
- Protein 0.5g1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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