Name: Decadent Cherry Bourbon Chocolate Truffles You’ll Adore
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 405 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup dried cherries (can substitute with raisins or dried blueberries); 1 splash bourbon (omit for non-alcoholic version); 1 cup heavy cream (can use full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free option); 2 tablespoons salted butter (ghee is a great dairy-free alternative); 6 ounces milk chocolate (can substitute with dark or semi-sweet chocolate for richer flavor); 8 ounces dark chocolate (melt carefully)

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You know that moment when you’re about to take a bite of something that looks and smells divine, and all your worries begin to fade? That’s exactly how you’ll feel with these Cherry Bourbon Chocolate Truffles. Combining luscious chocolate with the delightful tartness of dried cherries and a splash of bourbon, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into exquisite bites that are perfect for sharing—especially on Valentine’s Day. Not only are they a breeze to whip up, but these gluten-free treats also make an impressive handmade gift that any chocolate lover would cherish. Curious about how to create your own melt-in-your-mouth indulgence? Let’s dive into the sweetness of these truffles!

Why are these truffles irresistible?

Decadent Flavor: Each Cherry Bourbon Chocolate Truffle bursts with a perfect fusion of rich chocolate and tart cherries, enhanced by a warming splash of bourbon. Easily Made at Home: No advanced skills are needed; just follow simple steps to impress friends and family. Gluten-Free Delight: Enjoy these treats without worrying about gluten, making them suitable for various dietary needs. Great for Gifting: Perfect for anyone who loves chocolate, these truffles make an elegant gift for Valentine’s Day or any occasion. If you’re looking for more sweet ideas, try out Yogurt Chocolate Chip or a delightful Bake Chocolate Cheesecake. Customizable Touch: Adjust the recipe with different nuts or chocolate types to fit your taste buds!

Cherry Bourbon Chocolate Truffles Ingredients

For the Truffle Mixture
• Dried Cherries – Adds sweetness and texture; you can substitute with raisins or dried blueberries for variation.
• Bourbon – Introduces depth and a warming flavor; omit if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
• Heavy Cream – Provides richness and helps set the chocolate; full-fat coconut milk works for a dairy-free option.
• Salted Butter – Enhances flavor and texture; ghee is a great dairy-free alternative, or you can omit it if needed.
• Milk Chocolate – For a sweet truffle filling; dark or semi-sweet chocolate can be used for a richer flavor.

For the Coating
• Dark Chocolate – Used for coating, adds a contrasting flavor; melt carefully to avoid scorching during the process.

Feel free to create your own Cherry Bourbon Chocolate Truffles! These indulgent treats are sure to impress your loved ones, especially on Valentine’s Day.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Bourbon Chocolate Truffles

Step 1: Soak Cherries
In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of chopped dried cherries with a splash of bourbon. Allow them to soak for about 30 minutes, which will help the cherries absorb the bourbon’s rich flavor. You’ll know they are ready when they’re plump and fragrant.

Step 2: Heat Cream
Set up a double boiler on your stovetop and gently heat heavy cream (or coconut milk) until it’s hot but not boiling; this should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally and keep an eye on it. Once done, you should see steam rising but no bubbles popping on the surface.

Step 3: Melt Chocolate
Add 6 ounces of milk chocolate and 2 tablespoons of salted butter to the hot cream. Stir the mixture continuously until both the chocolate and butter are fully melted and combined, which should take about 2-3 minutes. You’re looking for a silky texture and a smooth, glossy finish.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Remove the bowl from heat and fold in the bourbon-soaked cherries into the chocolate mixture. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, about 15-20 minutes, until it thickens slightly but remains pourable. This is the filling for your Cherry Bourbon Chocolate Truffles.

Step 5: Form Truffles
Using a small cookie dough scoop, portion out the chocolate mixture and place each scoop onto a lined baking sheet. Once shaped, refrigerate them for at least 2-3 hours, or until they are firm enough to handle without losing their shape.

Step 6: Prepare Coating
While the truffles are chilling, prepare the coating by melting 8 ounces of dark chocolate in a double boiler or microwave. If using the microwave, heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until fully melted and smooth. This should take about 1-2 minutes total.

Step 7: Coat Truffles
Once the truffle centers are firm, dip each one into the melted dark chocolate using a fork or dipping tool. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing them back onto the lined baking sheet. Optionally, you can press a dried cherry onto the top for added decoration.

Step 8: Chill Again
Return the coated truffles to the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 6 hours before serving. This final chilling time allows the chocolate to set properly, resulting in beautifully glossy Cherry Bourbon Chocolate Truffles that are ready to indulge!

Make Ahead Options

These Cherry Bourbon Chocolate Truffles are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the truffle mixture up to 24 hours in advance by following steps 1 to 4 and then refrigerate it in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the truffles just as delicious when finished. Then, when you’re ready to complete the recipe, simply scoop and chill them (step 5) for about 2-3 hours, followed by coating them in melted dark chocolate (steps 6 and 7). By prepping ahead, you’ll have gourmet truffles ready to impress, with minimal effort just before serving—ideal for those hectic evenings or special occasions!

Expert Tips for Cherry Bourbon Chocolate Truffles

Soak Carefully: Avoid over-soaking the dried cherries to prevent an overpowering bourbon flavor; 30 minutes is ideal.
Chill Time Matters: Don’t rush the chilling process after shaping the truffles; this ensures they hold their shape when coated.
Chocolate Melting: Melt chocolate in smaller batches to maintain smoothness; refrigerate leftover chocolate for future use.
Texture Check: If the chocolate mixture is too thin while forming, let it cool longer at room temperature for better shaping.
Layering Flavors: Customize by mixing in nuts or using different chocolate types; each variation can elevate your Cherry Bourbon Chocolate Truffles further!

How to Store and Freeze Cherry Bourbon Chocolate Truffles

Room Temperature: Store truffles in an airtight container away from direct sunlight for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Fridge: Keep the Cherry Bourbon Chocolate Truffles in the refrigerator for up to a week in an airtight container, ensuring they stay cool and firm.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the truffles for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, let frozen truffles sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before savoring their delightful flavors.

Cherry Bourbon Chocolate Truffles Variations

Feel free to personalize your Cherry Bourbon Chocolate Truffles with these tempting twists that will take your indulgence to the next level!

Nutty Delight: Replace dried cherries with chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and rich flavor. This twist adds a delightful crunch to each heavenly bite.
Coconut Cream: Swap heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative that maintains a luscious texture. Imagine the delightful coconut aroma mingling with chocolate; it’s pure bliss!
Berry Burst: Use dried cranberries or blueberries instead of cherries to give it a fruity spin. The tartness of cranberries especially complements the chocolate beautifully!
Dark Chocolate Dream: Choose dark or semi-sweet chocolate for both the filling and coating for a more intense chocolate experience. Each bite transforms into a chocolate lover’s paradise!
Syrupy Sweetness: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the finished truffles for an aesthetic flair and a sweet contrast to the dark chocolate. It not only beautifies but enriches every bite.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or sea salt to the chocolate mixture for an unexpected twist of heat. This contrasts brilliantly with the sweetness of the cherries!
Flavored Bourbon: Experiment with flavored bourbons, like cherry or vanilla, to enhance the truffles’ taste. This simple swap creates multi-dimensional flavors that’ll surprise your palate!
Elegant Presentation: Roll your truffles in crushed nuts, cocoa powder, or even edible glitter for an attractive finish. Presentation adds to the experience, making them perfect for gifting!

If you’re on the lookout for more delightful creations, don’t forget to check out the Chocolate Banana Protein smoothie for a great boost! Your taste buds will thank you!

What to Serve with Cherry Bourbon Chocolate Truffles

Looking to elevate your Cherry Bourbon Chocolate Truffles into a full, blissful feast?

Decadent Red Velvet Cake: This rich, velvety cake adds a beautiful contrast to the truffles while keeping the dessert theme alive.
Fresh Berries: A mix of tart raspberries and sweet strawberries offers a refreshing palate cleanser, enhancing the chocolate richness.
Earl Grey Tea: This fragrant tea complements the bourbon’s depth, providing a soothing warmth and aromatic experience with every sip.
Classic Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool vanilla balances the truffles’ richness, creating a delightful textural contrast that will leave you wanting more.
Rich Coffee: Serve a smooth cup of brewed coffee to highlight the chocolate flavor, as the bitterness pairs harmoniously with the sweetness of the truffles.
Champagne or Sparkling Wine: The bubbles and acidity cut through the richness of the truffles, making it a celebratory pairing perfect for special occasions.
Chocolate Fondue: This fun, interactive dessert option allows everyone to dip their favorite treats in chocolate while enjoying the exquisite flavor combination.
Chocolate Mint Cheesecake: The minty freshness brings a nice twist to the chocolate, creating an exciting flavor journey for your guests.
Chocolate Covered Strawberries: This classic pairing mirrors the cherries with a fruity touch and adds an elegant touch to your dessert spread.

Cherry Bourbon Chocolate Truffles Recipe FAQs

What type of dried cherries should I use?
Absolutely! Look for high-quality dried cherries that are plump and moist. Avoid those with excessive dark spots, which might indicate they’re overly dried out. If you can’t find dried cherries, sweet raisins or dried blueberries are great substitutes!

How do I store my Cherry Bourbon Chocolate Truffles?
I recommend keeping your truffles in an airtight container. At room temperature, they’re best enjoyed within 3 days. For longer freshness, stash them in the refrigerator where they can last up to a week without losing their delightful flavor.

Can I freeze Cherry Bourbon Chocolate Truffles?
Very! To freeze them, lay the truffles in a single layer on a baking sheet and place it in the freezer for about 1-2 hours until they’re firm. Then, transfer the truffles to a freezer bag or an airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes for the best texture.

Why do my truffles keep losing shape?
No worries! If your truffles are losing shape, it may be due to insufficient chilling time; make sure to refrigerate them for at least 2-3 hours after forming. If the mixture feels too soft, try letting it cool at room temperature a little longer before scooping.

Are these truffles gluten-free?
Yes! Cherry Bourbon Chocolate Truffles are gluten-free, making them a wonderful treat for those with gluten sensitivities. Just be sure to double-check the ingredients on your chocolate and any substitutes to ensure they are also gluten-free.

Can I make these truffles dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk, and use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free alternative. These adjustments will ensure you get that rich texture without any dairy ingredients.