I’ve created these decadent mint chocolate cake truffles that combine the richness of chocolate cake with cool peppermint, making them perfect for holiday entertaining. These elegant truffles look professionally crafted but can be easily made in your own kitchen.
The Magic Behind These Truffles
These truffles transform a simple chocolate cake into sophisticated, bite-sized desserts that capture the essence of the holiday season. The combination of dark chocolate and peppermint creates a classic winter flavor profile, while the striking appearance makes them perfect for gifting or displaying at parties.
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 1 chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients required on box)
- 250g (1 cup) mint chocolate chip frosting
- ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
- Pinch of salt to enhance flavors
For the Coating:
- 400g (14 oz) quality dark chocolate, chopped
- 100g (3.5 oz) white chocolate for drizzling
- 4-5 candy canes, crushed for decoration
Detailed Instructions
Preparing the Cake Base
- Bake chocolate cake according to package directions in a 9×13 inch pan.
- Allow cake to cool completely.
- Crumble the cooled cake into fine crumbs in a large bowl.
- Add mint chocolate chip frosting and peppermint extract.
- Mix thoroughly until the mixture holds together when pressed.
Forming the Truffles
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Roll each portion between your palms until smooth and round.
- Place on prepared baking sheet.
- Chill in refrigerator for 1 hour until firm.
Dipping and Decorating
- Chop dark chocolate into small, uniform pieces.
- Melt dark chocolate using a double boiler or in 30-second microwave intervals.
- Remove a few cake balls from refrigerator at a time.
- Dip each ball in melted dark chocolate using a dipping fork.
- Tap gently to remove excess chocolate.
- Place on parchment paper.
- Once all truffles are coated, melt white chocolate.
- Transfer to a piping bag or zip-top bag with corner snipped.
- Drizzle white chocolate over truffles.
- Immediately sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
Expert Tips
- Temperature Control:
- Keep truffles chilled between steps
- Work in small batches when dipping
- Ensure chocolate is properly tempered for shine
- Coating Success:
- Use quality chocolate for best results
- Keep melted chocolate around 88-90°F
- Add 1 teaspoon coconut oil to chocolate for smoother coating
- Storage and Make-Ahead:
- Store in airtight container in refrigerator
- Can be made up to 1 week ahead
- Bring to room temperature 15 minutes before serving
Nutrition Information
Per truffle (makes approximately 24 truffles):
- Calories: 185
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 2g
These mint chocolate cake truffles are the perfect addition to your holiday dessert table or cookie exchange. Their striking appearance, with the contrast between dark chocolate coating, white chocolate drizzle, and festive candy cane sprinkles, makes them an instant showstopper. The combination of chocolate and mint creates a refreshing, memorable treat that captures the essence of the holiday season.
For best results, store these truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to enhance their flavor and texture. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or looking for a special homemade gift, these truffles are sure to impress.
