These Caramel Espresso Truffles are decadent bite-sized treats combining the rich depth of espresso with the buttery sweetness of caramel. Each truffle is a silky, chocolate-covered sphere with a creamy espresso-caramel center that melts in your mouth. Perfect for gifting, dessert platters, or a luxurious coffee break, they balance the bittersweet notes of coffee with indulgent chocolate and a hint of salt to enhance the caramel.
2. Ingredients
For the caramel espresso filling:
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½ cup granulated sugar
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter
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¼ cup heavy cream
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1 teaspoon instant espresso powder
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Pinch of salt
For the chocolate coating:
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8 oz (225 g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
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1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smooth coating)
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Cocoa powder, finely chopped nuts, or sea salt (for garnish, optional)
3. Instructions
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Make the caramel espresso center:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt sugar while stirring constantly until it turns golden brown. Carefully add butter, stirring to combine. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and whisk until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in espresso powder and a pinch of salt. Let the mixture cool for 15–20 minutes until it thickens slightly. -
Shape the truffles:
Once the caramel espresso mixture is cool but still pliable, use a teaspoon or small cookie scoop to form small balls. Place them on a parchment-lined tray and chill in the refrigerator for 30–40 minutes to firm up. -
Prepare the chocolate coating:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate (and coconut oil if using) in 20-second bursts, stirring between each burst until smooth. Alternatively, melt using a double boiler over simmering water. -
Dip the truffles:
Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each chilled caramel ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Tap off excess chocolate and place back on parchment paper. -
Garnish (optional):
Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle a little cocoa powder, finely chopped nuts, or a pinch of sea salt on top for added texture and flavor. -
Set and serve:
Refrigerate the truffles for 15–20 minutes until the chocolate is firm. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
4. Preparation Time
Total: 1 hour 20 minutes
Prep: 20 minutes
Chill: 50 minutes
Cook: 10 minutes
5. Serving
Makes about 20 truffles
6. Nutrition (per truffle)
Calories: 110 kcal
Protein: 1 g
Fat: 7 g
Carbohydrates: 12 g
Sugar: 10 g
7. Tips
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Prevent sticking: Chill the truffles well before dipping in chocolate so they hold their shape.
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Flavor boost: Add a splash of coffee liqueur or vanilla extract to the caramel for extra depth.
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Smooth coating: Add a teaspoon of coconut oil to the chocolate to make dipping easier and give a glossy finish.
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Creative toppings: Drizzle white chocolate over the truffles for a decorative touch or roll them in cocoa powder for a classic finish.
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Gift idea: Place truffles in mini paper cups and arrange in a festive box for a homemade gift.
8. Final Thought
These Caramel Espresso Truffles combine the elegance of chocolate with the warmth and depth of espresso and the sweet indulgence of caramel. They’re perfect for dessert tables, holiday gifting, or treating yourself to a little luxurious coffee-inspired indulgence. With their creamy center and glossy chocolate exterior, each bite is a balance of rich, sweet, and slightly bitter that coffee lovers will adore.
