Red Wine Truffles are sophisticated yet simple to make, offering a unique twist on traditional chocolate truffles. The wine enhances the chocolate without overpowering it, adding depth and a subtle fruitiness. Whether you’re making them for a holiday, Valentine’s Day, or a wine-and-dessert night, these truffles deliver gourmet flavor with minimal ingredients.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
High-quality dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa), finely chopped
Heavy cream
Red wine (dry or semi-dry, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Pinot Noir)
Unsalted butter (optional, for extra creaminess)
Vanilla extract (optional)
Pinch of salt
Cocoa powder, powdered sugar, or melted chocolate (for coating)
Directions
Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
In a small saucepan, heat the cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer—do not boil.
Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let sit for 1–2 minutes.
Stir gently until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
Add the red wine, butter (if using), vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until fully incorporated.
Cover and refrigerate the ganache for 2–3 hours, or until firm enough to scoop.
Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion the ganache and roll into balls with your hands.
Roll the truffles in cocoa powder, powdered sugar, or dip in melted chocolate.
Chill until firm, then bring to room temperature before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 20–24 truffles. Prep time: 20 minutes Chill time: 2–3 hours Total time: About 3 hours 20 minutes
Variations
Wine pairings: Try Zinfandel for a jammy flavor, or a bold Shiraz for a spicy edge.
Spiced truffles: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne for a warm kick.
Fruity additions: Mix in finely chopped dried cherries or cranberries.
Nutty twist: Roll truffles in crushed hazelnuts, pistachios, or almonds.
White chocolate version: Use white chocolate and a sweet rosé or dessert wine for a lighter variation.
Storage/Reheating
Store Red Wine Truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving for the best texture. You can also freeze the truffles (without coatings) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
FAQs
What kind of red wine should I use?
Use a dry or semi-dry wine you enjoy drinking. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Pinot Noir work beautifully with chocolate.
Can I taste the wine in the truffles?
Yes, the flavor is subtle but present. It adds depth, richness, and a hint of fruitiness to the chocolate.
Do I need to cook the wine first?
No. The wine is added directly to the warm ganache. It doesn’t need to be reduced unless you want to concentrate the flavor further.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?
You can, but the result will be sweeter and less intense. Adjust the wine slightly to keep the balance.
Why is my ganache too soft to roll?
Chill it longer, or add a little more melted chocolate to firm it up. Temperature and ratios can affect consistency.
How do I keep truffles from melting in my hands?
Use cold hands, work quickly, and chill the rolled truffles again before coating or serving.
Can I coat these in melted chocolate?
Yes. After shaping and chilling, dip the truffles in tempered chocolate for a glossy shell.
Are these good for gifting?
Absolutely. Package in a box with mini paper cups and keep them chilled until gifting.
Do these need to be refrigerated?
Yes, due to the cream content, refrigerate them and bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Conclusion
Red Wine Truffles are a luxurious, grown-up treat that blends the richness of chocolate with the elegance of red wine. Whether you’re making them for a romantic evening, a holiday party, or a gift from the kitchen, these truffles are sure to impress. Easy to make yet indulgent in flavor, they’re a delightful way to elevate any dessert spread.
Red Wine Truffles are decadent chocolate confections infused with the bold, fruity flavor of red wine. These elegant, bite-sized treats combine rich dark chocolate and velvety ganache for a luxurious dessert that’s perfect for holidays, gifting, or romantic occasions.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:0 minutes
Total Time:3 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling)
Yield:20–24 truffles
Category:Dessert
Method:No-bake
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
8 oz high-quality dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa), finely chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Pinot Noir)
1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for creaminess)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Pinch of salt
Cocoa powder, powdered sugar, or melted chocolate (for coating)
Instructions
Place chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not boil.
Pour hot cream over the chocolate and let sit for 1–2 minutes.
Stir gently until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
Stir in red wine, butter (if using), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until fully incorporated.
Cover and refrigerate the ganache for 2–3 hours, or until firm enough to scoop.
Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to portion the ganache. Roll into balls with your hands.
Roll truffles in cocoa powder, powdered sugar, or dip in melted chocolate.
Refrigerate until firm, then bring to room temperature before serving.
Notes
Use a wine you enjoy drinking for best flavor.Chill ganache longer if too soft to roll, or add a bit more melted chocolate to firm it.For gifting, place truffles in mini paper cups and keep refrigerated until ready to gift.Add-ins like crushed nuts, dried fruit, or spices can be folded into the ganache for extra texture and flavor.
