Valentine’s amaretto truffles

These Valentine’s Amaretto Truffles are a dreamy blend of elegance and indulgence, perfect for gifting or treating yourself. Made with rich dark chocolate, a hint of almond liqueur, and rolled in stunning pink beetroot powder, they’re a handmade delight that looks as good as it tastes. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or just love a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth treat, this recipe delivers flavor, texture, and visual charm in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and velvety dark chocolate base

• Enhanced with a smooth touch of amaretto liqueur

• Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free adaptable

• Stunning presentation with beetroot or raspberry powder

• No baking required—just melt, chill, and roll

• Easy to customize with or without nuts

• Elegant homemade gift for any occasion

• Great make-ahead dessert

• Impressive results with simple ingredients

• Small batch—perfect for intimate celebrations

Ingredients

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

• Dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids)

• Coconut cream or almond milk

• Coconut oil (refined recommended)

• Maple syrup

• Amaretto liqueur

• Optional: finely chopped almonds

• Beetroot (for homemade powder) or store-bought beetroot or raspberry powder

Directions

1. Make Beetroot Powder (if not using store-bought):
   Preheat oven to 80°C / 175°F. Slice peeled beetroots very thinly and arrange on a lined baking tray. Bake for about 2 hours until dry. Let them crisp further as they cool. Grind to a fine powder in a coffee grinder and sift to remove large pieces.

2. Melt the Chocolate:
   Break 125g dark chocolate into small pieces and place in a glass bowl with coconut cream (or almond milk).

3. Double Boiler Method:
   Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water, making sure the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the bowl. Let the chocolate melt gently without stirring.

4. Combine Ingredients:
   Once melted, remove from heat. Whisk in maple syrup, amaretto, and coconut oil one at a time until fully combined. Add chopped almonds (optional) once the mixture has slightly cooled but is still soft.

5. Chill:
   Cover and refrigerate the mixture for several hours or overnight until firm.

6. Shape Truffles:
   Scoop out teaspoon-sized portions and roll into balls with clean hands.

7. Coat:
   Roll each truffle in beetroot powder (or raspberry powder) for a beautiful pink finish.

Servings and timing

Servings: 20 truffles
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Chilling Time: Several hours or overnight
Total Time: About 3 hours (including chilling)

Variations

• Kid-Friendly: Swap amaretto with almond extract and add a bit of almond butter for creaminess.

• Nut-Free: Skip the chopped almonds or use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for crunch.

• Different Coatings: Try cocoa powder, freeze-dried raspberry powder, or crushed nuts.

• Vegan Version: Use vegan chocolate and almond milk.

• Extra Boozy: Increase amaretto slightly for a more intense flavor.

• Sweeter Option: Add a touch more maple syrup if preferred.

• Holiday Theme: Use red and green powders for Christmas or edible glitter for New Year’s.

• Crunchy Texture: Roll in crushed roasted almonds or pistachios instead of powder.

• White Chocolate Version: Use vegan white chocolate (adjust coconut oil if needed).

• Citrus Twist: Add orange zest or orange liqueur for a citrusy spin.

Storage/Reheating

Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5–7 days.
For best texture, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Do not freeze, as the texture may be affected upon thawing.
Avoid reheating—these are meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make these truffles ahead of time?

Yes, they store well in the fridge for up to a week, making them perfect for prepping in advance.

Can I use almond extract instead of amaretto?

Absolutely. Use ½ to 1 tsp of almond extract to replace the liqueur for a non-alcoholic version.

What if my mixture is too soft to roll?

Return it to the fridge to chill longer. If still too soft, remelt and add more chocolate or a small amount of coconut oil.

Do the truffles taste like beetroot?

No, the beetroot powder is used solely for color. It doesn’t affect the flavor of the chocolate.

Can I use another coating besides beetroot powder?

Yes, cocoa powder, raspberry powder, or chopped nuts all make great alternatives.

Is there a way to make this recipe sugar-free?

You can try using sugar-free dark chocolate and a sugar-free syrup substitute, but the texture may vary.

Can I use a microwave instead of a double boiler?

It’s not recommended, as overheating chocolate in a microwave can cause it to seize. Stick to the double boiler method.

How do I make them smoother and shinier?

You can lightly dust with powdered sugar or brush with a bit of coconut oil just before serving.

Can I add other flavorings?

Yes, try vanilla extract, espresso powder, or a dash of chili for a spiced kick.

Are these suitable for gifting?

Yes, pack them in small paper cups in a gift box or tin. Store in a cool place until gifting.

Conclusion

Valentine’s Amaretto Truffles are the perfect sweet gesture—rich, smooth, and undeniably romantic. With their velvety chocolate base and beautiful beetroot blush, they’re as eye-catching as they are indulgent. Whether you’re surprising someone special or simply celebrating the joy of handmade treats, these truffles are sure to impress and delight.