Decadent Origins: The History & Recipe of Chocolate Truffles

The Luxurious Legacy of Chocolate Truffles

1828 marked a transformation in chocolate's history with the cocoa press, but 1879 heralded a new delicacy: the milk chocolate by Henri Nestle. In the same vein, France and Switzerland's confectioners experimented to birth the Ganache—a creamy core of modern chocolate truffles.

The French Connection

Hamiltons Chocolates, embracing this rich tradition, recognizes the truffle's French lineage. Named after the earthy delicacy found in the forests of France, the chocolate truffle became synonymous with opulence and regal delight.

The Truffle Takes the World Stage

With its rising fame, chocolate truffles danced across borders, enchanting palates in Europe, America, and beyond. As the 1900s dawned, chocolatiers worldwide aspired to craft their own versions, from the original Ganache to liquor-infused varieties.

The Truffle Trio: American, Swiss, and European

1. American: A fusion of chocolate with butterfat and sometimes coconut oil.
2. Swiss: Dairy cream and butter married to chocolate, meant for prompt indulgence.
3. European: A concoction of syrup, cocoa, and milk powders with butter.

Crafting Truffles at Home: A Hamiltons-Inspired Recipe

Indulge in creating about 50 truffles with a 30-minute preparation time.

Ingredients:

• 340g high-quality plain chocolate (70% cocoa solids)
• 60g softened butter
• 200ml double cream
• 50g caster sugar
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder
• 2 tbsp icing sugar

Method:

1. Finely break and chop the chocolate. Place it with the butter in a bowl.
2. Heat the cream and sugar until boiling, then pour over the chocolate mixture.
3. Whisk until smooth. Freeze until malleable.
4. Dust a surface with a blend of cocoa and icing sugar. Roll the truffle mix into balls.

Tip: Add a dash of Cointreau or rum for a spirited twist. Keep in a cool, airtight container for a week.

As you savor your homemade truffles or those from the selection at Hamiltons, relish in the storied past that has given rise to these treats. Synonymous with luxury and suited for royalty, chocolate truffles are a pleasure that transcends time, continuing to make history with each refined, sumptuous bite.