Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Mocha Mint Chocolate Truffles are the perfect balance of deep chocolate, coffee, and mint flavors. The creamy ganache centers, made from a combination of chocolate and cream, are enhanced with the rich taste of coffee and the cool, refreshing zing of mint. These truffles are simple to make and are a luxurious treat that feels special, yet they come together easily with just a few ingredients. Whether you’re gifting them, sharing with friends, or enjoying them yourself, these truffles are sure to impress with their rich flavor and smooth texture.

Ingredients

For the truffles:

8 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp instant coffee or espresso powder
1/4 tsp peppermint extract
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for rolling)
1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies (optional, for rolling)

For the coating:

4 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
2 tbsp vegetable oil or coconut oil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the Ganache:

Prepare the chocolate and cream mixture: In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped chocolate and instant coffee (or espresso powder). In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and coffee mixture and let it sit for 2-3 minutes to melt the chocolate.
Stir to combine: After the mixture has sat for a few minutes, stir gently until the chocolate and coffee are completely melted and smooth. Add the peppermint extract and mix until combined. The ganache should be glossy and smooth.
Chill the ganache: Let the ganache cool to room temperature, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about 1-2 hours, or until it firms up enough to scoop and shape into balls.

Shape the Truffles:

Scoop the ganache: Once the ganache has chilled and firmed up, use a small cookie scoop or a teaspoon to scoop out portions of the ganache. Roll each scoop into a ball using your hands. Work quickly, as the ganache may begin to soften if it’s too warm.
Roll the truffles: After shaping the ganache into balls, roll each truffle in the unsweetened cocoa powder or crushed peppermint candies for added flavor and texture. You can use a combination of both for a festive touch.

Coat the Truffles:

Melt the chocolate coating: In a heatproof bowl, melt the remaining 4 oz of chocolate with the vegetable oil or coconut oil. You can do this using a double boiler method or by microwaving the chocolate in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.
Dip the truffles: Once the coating chocolate is melted, dip each truffle into the chocolate using a fork or skewer, ensuring it is fully coated. Tap the fork gently to remove any excess chocolate, and place the coated truffle back on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Let them set: Allow the truffles to set at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes, or refrigerate them for about 10 minutes to speed up the process. Once set, the truffles will have a glossy chocolate coating.

Serve:

Once the truffles have set, they’re ready to serve! Enjoy them as a sweet treat for yourself, or package them beautifully for gifting.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 16-20 truffles (depending on size)
Prep time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
Chill time: 1-2 hours for ganache firming, 20-30 minutes for coating setting
Total time: 2-3 hours

Variations

Coffee variation: For a stronger coffee flavor, add a little more instant coffee or espresso powder to the ganache mixture to intensify the mocha flavor.
Minty twist: You can use mint extract instead of peppermint extract for a more subtle mint flavor, or add a few drops of mint essential oil (food grade) to the ganache for an aromatic touch.
Dark chocolate coating: If you prefer dark chocolate, use dark chocolate for the coating instead of milk chocolate for a richer, less sweet truffle.
Add nuts: For a crunchy texture, you can roll the truffles in finely chopped nuts like almonds, hazelnuts, or walnuts before coating them in chocolate.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Freezing: These truffles freeze well! You can freeze the truffles before coating them, or after they are fully assembled. Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat these truffles, as they are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. Simply remove from the refrigerator about 10-15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes! You can use milk chocolate in place of dark chocolate if you prefer a sweeter, creamier truffle. Keep in mind that the sweetness of the truffles will vary depending on the type of chocolate you use.

2. Can I use flavored coffee instead of regular instant coffee?

Absolutely! Flavored coffee, like hazelnut or caramel, can add an interesting twist to the truffles. Just be sure that it’s a flavor you enjoy, as it will come through in the finished truffle.

3. Can I make these truffles without mint?

Yes! If you prefer mocha truffles without the mint flavor, you can simply omit the peppermint extract and enjoy the coffee-chocolate combination on its own.

4. How do I prevent the truffles from getting too soft while rolling?

If your ganache becomes too soft while rolling the truffles, simply chill the ganache for another 10-15 minutes to firm it up again. If the ganache is too cold and difficult to roll, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling.

5. Can I skip the chocolate coating and just roll the truffles in cocoa powder?

Yes, you can! If you prefer a simpler truffle, you can skip the coating and just roll the ganache balls in cocoa powder or crushed peppermint candies for a lighter finish.

6. Can I make these truffles ahead of time?

Yes, these truffles can be made ahead of time. In fact, they taste even better after they’ve had a chance to sit for a day or two, allowing the flavors to meld together. Store them in the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature before serving.

7. How can I make the truffles extra smooth?

To get an extra-smooth ganache, be sure to stir the chocolate and cream gently after they’re combined. If you want an ultra-silky finish, you can use an immersion blender to blend the ganache until it’s smooth and glossy.

8. Can I use a different type of extract for these truffles?

Yes! While peppermint extract pairs wonderfully with mocha, you can experiment with other extracts, such as orange, raspberry, or vanilla, to create different flavor profiles.

9. Can I use flavored chocolate for the truffles?

Yes, you can use flavored chocolates like dark chocolate with mint, raspberry, or coffee. Just ensure that the flavor complements the coffee and mint notes in the truffles.

10. How long can I keep these truffles?

Mocha Mint Chocolate Truffles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks. For the best flavor and texture, let them come to room temperature before enjoying.

Conclusion

Mocha Mint Chocolate Truffles are an irresistible treat that combines rich chocolate, aromatic coffee, and refreshing mint. These truffles are perfect for any special occasion, gift-giving, or simply enjoying a decadent moment for yourself. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and harmonious flavor, these truffles are sure to be a favorite among friends and family. Enjoy them as a delightful indulgence or package them up for a thoughtful homemade gift!