Simple Fruit and Cheese Skewers

These Decadent Tiramisu Truffles transform the classic Italian dessert into delightful, bite-sized indulgences. Combining rich mascarpone, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and a dusting of cocoa, these truffles offer a creamy, coffee-flavored treat that's perfect for any occasion. Elegant yet easy to make, they're a must-try for tiramisu lovers!

Key Information:

• Preparation time: 25 minutes
• Chilling time: 1 hour
• Total time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Number of servings: 20 truffles
• Serving size: 1 truffle

Nutritional Information (per serving, 1 truffle):

• Calories: 110
• Protein: 2g
• Carbs: 12g
• Fat: 6g

Ingredients:

• 200g (7 oz) ladyfingers (savoiardi), crushed
• 250g (8.8 oz) mascarpone cheese
• 60ml (1/4 cup) brewed espresso, cooled
• 1 tbsp coffee liqueur (optional)
• 100g (3.5 oz) powdered sugar
• 200g (7 oz) dark chocolate, melted
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
• 50g (1.8 oz) dark chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)

Method of Preparation:

1. Crush the ladyfingers: Place the ladyfingers in a ziplock bag and crush them into fine crumbs using a rolling pin. Alternatively, use a food processor for finer crumbs.
2. Mix the base: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, brewed espresso, and coffee liqueur (if using). Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
3. Shape the truffles: Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into small balls between your palms, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Chill the truffles: Refrigerate the truffles for about 1 hour, or until firm enough to handle.
5. Coat with chocolate: Melt the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals until smooth. Dip each truffle into the melted chocolate using a fork, allowing excess to drip off before placing them back on the parchment paper.
6. Add the finishing touches: While the chocolate is still soft, lightly dust the truffles with unsweetened cocoa powder and, if desired, sprinkle dark chocolate shavings over the top.
7. Chill again: Place the truffles back in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate has set.
8. Serve and enjoy: Once the truffles are firm, they're ready to serve. Enjoy them chilled for the best texture.

Culinary Tips for Success:

1. Choose quality chocolate: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate (at least 60% cocoa) for a rich, smooth coating.
2. Handle the mixture gently: The mascarpone mixture can be soft, so keep your hands cool when rolling the truffles.
3. Add flavor depth: A splash of coffee liqueur, like Kahlua, enhances the tiramisu flavor, but it’s optional for those avoiding alcohol.
4. Chill sufficiently: Be sure to chill the truffle mixture and the coated truffles to ensure they hold their shape.
5. Creative garnishing: Experiment with toppings like grated white chocolate or crushed hazelnuts for extra texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I make these truffles ahead of time? Yes, these truffles can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
2. Can I freeze tiramisu truffles? Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just let them thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
3. Is there an alcohol-free version? Yes! You can omit the coffee liqueur entirely or replace it with additional brewed espresso for an alcohol-free version.
4. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark? While dark chocolate gives a balanced bitterness, milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter version. Just note the overall flavor may be less intense.
5. What if my mixture is too soft to roll? If the truffle mixture is too soft, chill it for an extra 15-20 minutes before rolling, or add a few more crushed ladyfingers for a firmer texture.

With their creamy, coffee-infused centers and rich chocolate coatings, these Decadent Tiramisu Truffles are the perfect indulgence for any dessert lover. Whether you're hosting a gathering or looking for a personal treat, these truffles will transport you to Italy with each luxurious bite. Elegant, easy, and utterly irresistible!