A delightful blend of tangy lemon and rich chocolate, these lemon truffles are the perfect treat for any occasion. The zesty lemon curd filling is encased in a smooth dark chocolate shell, creating a flavor explosion in every bite.
Ingredients:
For the Lemon Curd:
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon grated lemon zest
For the Truffles:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 12 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup lemon curd, cooled
- Cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions:
Make the Lemon Curd:
- Whisk the Egg Yolks and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy.
- Add Lemon Juice: Gradually whisk in the lemon juice, then place the saucepan over medium-low heat.
- Cook the Curd: Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Butter and Zest: Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the butter and lemon zest until smooth.
- Strain and Cool: Strain the lemon curd through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl and let it cool completely.
Make the Truffles:
- Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it simmers.
- Melt the Chocolate: Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Stir Until Smooth: Gently stir the mixture until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Combine with Lemon Curd: Once the chocolate mixture has cooled slightly, stir in the cooled lemon curd until well combined.
- Chill and Shape: Cover the mixture and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- Roll into Truffles: Once chilled, scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls.
- Coat in Cocoa Powder: Roll the truffles in cocoa powder to coat.
- Chill and Serve: Chill the truffles for an additional hour before serving.
Tips:
- For a more intense lemon flavor, increase the amount of lemon zest.
- To make the truffles ahead of time, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- For a more decadent treat, drizzle the truffles with melted dark chocolate.
Enjoy these zesty and indulgent lemon truffles!