Truffle Biscuits

Truffle Cookies: The Delight That Will Captivate Your Taste Buds

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Refrigeration time: 2 hours
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total: 2 hours and 40 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 20 cookies

There are moments in life when sweets become a necessity, not just a whim. Truffle cookies are that perfect choice: the ideal combination of chocolate, soft texture, and intense flavor. These cookies are not only easy to make but also a true delight for chocolate lovers. With a history that dates back in time, these cookies have evolved over the years, but the recipe we share today will take you on a journey of flavor.

Ingredients:
- 200 g chocolate (milk or dark, depending on preference)
- 50 g butter
- 70 g sugar
- 2 eggs
- 200 g flour
- 1 packet baking powder
- Vanilla extract (or, for a unique touch, orange or rum extract)
- A pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar for the exterior of the cookies

Step by step for perfect truffle cookies:

1. Melting the chocolate: Start by breaking the chocolate into small pieces and placing it in a heatproof bowl. Add the butter cut into cubes. Place the bowl over a double boiler (over another pot with hot water, but not touching the bowl). Stir occasionally until the chocolate and butter melt completely. Once melted, let the mixture cool slightly, but not completely; it should be warm, not hot.

2. Preparing the mixture: In another bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until you get a frothy, light-colored mixture. Slowly incorporate the melted chocolate, stirring continuously to avoid cooking the eggs. Add a pinch of salt, the vanilla extract, and mix well.

3. Incorporating the dry ingredients: Sift the flour and baking powder over the chocolate and egg mixture. Gently mix with a spatula or wooden spoon until everything is well combined and results in a thick, homogeneous cream. This will be the base for your cookies.

4. Refrigerating the dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This step is essential; it helps the cookies firm up and hold their shape better during baking.

5. Shaping the cookies: Once the dough is well chilled, take it out of the fridge. Wet your hands with a little oil or flour to prevent the dough from sticking. Form balls the size of walnuts and roll them in powdered sugar, ensuring they are evenly coated. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the cookies for 10 minutes. It is important not to leave them longer; otherwise, they will harden and will not have that soft, fudgy texture. You can check them: they should be slightly crusty on the outside but soft on the inside.

7. Cooling: After removing them from the oven, let them cool on the tray for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Practical tips:
- Choosing chocolate: Choose a quality chocolate, as the taste of the cookies will largely depend on it. If you prefer a more intense flavor, opt for dark chocolate.
- Gluten-free option: You can replace the flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour or rice flour, but adjust the sugar amount, as some flours can be sweeter.
- Creative additions: You can experiment with chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to add extra texture and flavor to your cookies.

Delicious pairings:
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or fragrant tea. For an even greater indulgence, serve the cookies with vanilla ice cream or a caramel sauce!

Nutritional benefits:
These cookies contain chocolate, which is a powerful antioxidant, and the eggs provide essential proteins. However, moderation is key, considering the sugar content.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use white chocolate? Yes, but the cookies will have a sweeter flavor and a different texture.
- What if I don't have vanilla extract? You can use cinnamon or another preferred flavor to give the recipe a unique twist.

Truffle cookies are a fabulous choice for any occasion, but also for those moments when you want to treat yourself to a simple and delicious dessert. So, don't hesitate to try this recipe; it will surely become your favorite quickly! Enjoy!