Mint Chocolate Truffles

While I am not a huge chocolate fan (gasp!  I know...I'm basically a sinner...), when I do want a chocolate fix, I rather enjoy mint chocolate.  Peppermint chocolate to be precise.  I am not a huge fan of regular mint (spearmint).  I think Junior Mints are basically amazing, and peppermint pattys...mmm...!

So these truffles fit the bill!  They are a sweet chocolate mint indulgence that cannot be denied.  And relatively simple to make, you just need a little patience as you wait for your chocolate to set up!

Mint Chocolate Truffles

Ingredients:

16 oz semi-sweet chocolate (I used Guittard chocolate chips...so you can do nice chocolate or cheap)
1 tsp peppermint extract
1 c. heavy cream

Coating/Topping:

12 oz chocolate of choice (I used semi-sweet)
2 oz. white chocolate
1 large candy cane (crushed)

Directions:

Place your chocolate and peppermint extract in a medium bowl.

In a small saucepan, heat the cream until it comes to a boil, stirring constantly.  Pour the hot cream over the chocolate in the bowl.  Stir with a fork until the mixture becomes smooth and the chocolate is completely melted.

Allow the chocolate to chill until firm (I left mine overnight, but if you do it all in one day, allow it to chill at least 4 hours).

Roll mixture into small balls and place on a silpat lined cookie sheet and return to the refrigerator for an additional half hour.

Melt the chocolate (I use the double-boiler method). Remove the truffles from the fridge and dip each ball into the chocolate, turning it to cover the entire surface.  Remove excess coating by lightly tapping along the side of the bowl and then place it back on the baking sheet to set.

Melt your white chocolate and place in a small ziplock bag.  Snip off a small corner and drizzle your white chocolate over your truffles.  Sprinkle with crushed candy canes before the chocolate sets completely.

You should store these in the refrigerator or freezer.  But note that the candy canes will soften over time, so it is best to consume them the same day they are made.

Enjoy!