If you love that magical combination of rich chocolate and vibrant berries, Strawberry Dark Chocolate Truffles are about to become your new obsession. These bite-sized delights blend luscious dark chocolate with tangy, colorful freeze-dried strawberries, wrapped up in an ultra-creamy center and finished with a cocoa powder dusting. They look sophisticated, but I promise they’re delightfully simple to make – no oven required! Whether you’re gifting them to someone special or savoring them solo, every bite is a celebration of decadent flavor, dreamy texture, and a pop of berry magic thanks to the irresistible strawberry dark chocolate truffles.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these few straightforward ingredients to whip up your own batch of Strawberry Dark Chocolate Truffles. Each plays a crucial part, contributing depth, creaminess, and that unforgettable fruity sparkle!
- Dark chocolate (8 ounces, 60–70% cacao): Choose a quality bar for a pronounced, satisfying chocolate flavor that balances beautifully with the strawberries.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): The secret to a silk-smooth, melting interior—don’t skip it!
- Freeze-dried strawberries (1/4 cup, crushed into powder): These add bursts of color and tangy sweetness, and their crunchy texture transforms into velvety magic in every bite.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Just a splash subtly enhances and rounds out the flavors.
- Pinch of salt: Think of this as your flavor amplifier—it makes all the other ingredients shine brighter.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/4 cup, for rolling): For that classic truffle finish and a gentle, bittersweet coating.
- Optional: Extra crushed freeze-dried strawberries for garnish: A pretty, fruity touch to jazz up your presentation (and tempt everyone nearby).
How to Make Strawberry Dark Chocolate Truffles
Step 1: Prepare the Ganache Base
Start by placing the finely chopped dark chocolate into a heat-safe bowl. If you want that signature velvety smooth interior to your truffles, using high-quality chocolate and chopping it evenly makes all the difference. This prep step ensures the chocolate melts quickly and evenly once the cream is added.
Step 2: Heat the Cream
In a small saucepan, gently heat the heavy cream over medium heat just until it begins to simmer. You’re looking for tiny bubbles to form around the edges, but avoid a full boil—too much heat can cause the chocolate to seize or become grainy later on. Once the cream is hot, remove it promptly from the stove.
Step 3: Combine and Melt
Pour the hot cream directly over your waiting pile of dark chocolate. Let it sit undisturbed for 2–3 minutes; this gives the chocolate time to soften and melt gently. After the wait, take a spatula or spoon and gently stir, starting from the center, until you achieve a glossy, entirely melted ganache.
Step 4: Add Strawberry, Vanilla, and Salt
Sprinkle in the crushed freeze-dried strawberries, drizzle over the vanilla extract, and toss in the pinch of salt. Stir until everything is thoroughly blended. This is where the truffle base takes on its signature flavor and those cheerful flecks of pink!
Step 5: Chill the Mixture
Cover the bowl tightly and transfer it to the refrigerator. Let your ganache chill for 1–2 hours—this is crucial for achieving a mixture that’s firm enough to shape but still creamy inside. If you check at the 1-hour mark and it’s still too soft, give it a bit more time.
Step 6: Scoop and Shape
Once the chocolate base is set but pliable, use a small cookie scoop or a spoon to portion out 1-inch balls. Roll them quickly between your palms to form round truffles. Pro tip: If your hands get sticky, lightly dust them with cocoa powder or rinse with cold water and dry thoroughly.
Step 7: Roll and Garnish
Drop each truffle into a bowl of unsweetened cocoa powder, rolling to coat it evenly. For an extra swipe of drama and berry flavor, sprinkle a few with additional crushed freeze-dried strawberries. Arrange your finished Strawberry Dark Chocolate Truffles on a tray, ready for snacking or sharing!
How to Serve Strawberry Dark Chocolate Truffles
Garnishes
Presentation is everything with Strawberry Dark Chocolate Truffles! A sprinkle of crushed freeze-dried strawberries on top lends extra color and berry aroma, or add a teensy mint leaf for a fresh pop. You could also dust each truffle with powdered sugar for a snow-dusted look that feels especially festive.
Side Dishes
These truffles pair wonderfully with fresh berries—try a bowl of ripe strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries nearby. For something truly indulgent, serve alongside coffee, a creamy latte, a glass of chilled dessert wine, or hot chocolate for double chocolate bliss.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting, place each truffle in a mini cupcake liner and arrange in a decorative box or mason jar tied with ribbon. For a party, skewer truffles onto lollipop sticks for a truffle pop, or arrange them on a beautiful platter surrounded by more freeze-dried strawberries and chocolate shavings. You can even present them tucked into edible chocolate “nests” for a playful touch that gets everyone talking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Strawberry Dark Chocolate Truffles will keep beautifully stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking, and bring to room temperature for a few minutes before serving for extra creaminess.
Freezing
If you want to stash some away, these truffles freeze very well! Arrange them in a single layer in a sealed freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight—the flavor and texture remain deliciously intact.
Reheating
Since Strawberry Dark Chocolate Truffles are designed to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, reheating isn’t necessary. If they’ve gotten too cold and firm from the fridge, let them sit on the counter for 10–15 minutes before eating for the richest, smoothest experience.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Absolutely! Milk chocolate will give your truffles a sweeter, gentler flavor. Just note that the final texture may be a touch softer, so chilling a little longer before scooping may help them keep their shape.
Are fresh strawberries a good substitute for freeze-dried strawberries?
Fresh strawberries add too much moisture, which can affect the consistency of your ganache. Stick to freeze-dried strawberries for the right texture and concentrated berry flavor that makes Strawberry Dark Chocolate Truffles so delightful.
How do I make the truffles sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter treat, just stir in 1–2 tablespoons of maple syrup or honey to the ganache base after mixing in the cream. Taste as you go so you hit your perfect sweetness level without overpowering the chocolate and strawberry notes.
Can I dip the truffles in chocolate instead of cocoa powder?
Definitely! For a glossy, snappy shell, dip each chilled truffle in melted dark or milk chocolate using a fork, then let them set on wax paper. It adds a lovely contrast of textures to the creamy inside.
Are these truffles gluten-free?
Yes, Strawberry Dark Chocolate Truffles are naturally gluten-free as written. Just double-check the packaging on your chocolate and freeze-dried strawberries to ensure no cross-contamination or added gluten ingredients.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to impress friends or indulge your own sweet cravings, these Strawberry Dark Chocolate Truffles are an absolute must-try. They’re simple, elegant, and so full of rich chocolate and tangy strawberry flavor that one is never enough. I hope you love sharing and savoring them as much as I do—don’t be surprised if they vanish in seconds!
Print
Strawberry Dark Chocolate Truffles Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 18 truffles 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in the luxurious combination of dark chocolate and freeze-dried strawberries with these decadent Strawberry Dark Chocolate Truffles. These rich, creamy truffles are perfect for any special occasion or as a sweet treat for yourself.
Ingredients
For the Truffles:
- 8 ounces dark chocolate (60–70% cacao), finely chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed into a powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for rolling)
- Optional: extra crushed freeze-dried strawberries for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Ganache: Place the chopped dark chocolate in a heat-safe bowl. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it simmers. Pour over the chocolate, let sit, then stir until smooth.
- Flavor and Chill: Stir in crushed strawberries, vanilla, and salt. Refrigerate for 1–2 hours until firm.
- Shape the Truffles: Scoop portions and roll into balls. Coat each truffle in cocoa powder and crushed strawberries.
- Store and Enjoy: Keep the truffles refrigerated until serving.
Notes
- For a sweeter variation, add 1–2 tablespoons of maple syrup or honey to the ganache.
- You can also dip the truffles in melted chocolate for a glossy shell.
- Best served chilled.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 truffle
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
