Can I make these truffles ahead of time for an event?

Absolutely! These truffles actually benefit from being made 1-2 days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. Store them in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature about 20 minutes before serving.

Why did my caramel turn grainy?

Grainy caramel typically results from sugar crystallization. To prevent this, avoid stirring until the sugar begins to melt, make sure your pot is completely clean, and consider adding a teaspoon of corn syrup to the sugar at the beginning.

Can I use store-bought caramel to save time?

While you can use prepared caramel sauce, it won't set firmly enough for rolling. For a shortcut, consider using soft caramel candies melted with a bit of cream instead.

How do I know when my caramel has reached the right temperature?

The perfect caramel will be a deep amber color—think the color of a copper penny. If using a candy thermometer, aim for 350°F. Too light, and your caramel will lack flavor; too dark, and it will taste burnt.

My chocolate coating isn't shiny. What went wrong?

A dull chocolate finish usually indicates the chocolate was overheated or not properly tempered. For shinier results, use good quality chocolate and melt it very gradually.

Can I add flavors to these truffles?

Definitely! Add a tablespoon of bourbon to the caramel, orange zest to the chocolate, or roll in chopped nuts before the chocolate sets for delicious variations.

Easy Salted Caramel Truffles That Will Wow Your Guests

Description

Easy homemade salted caramel truffles with a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. These decadent treats feature a rich caramel center enrobed in smooth chocolate and finished with flaky sea salt, creating an impressive dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature, cut into pieces
½ cup heavy cream, room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon flaky sea salt (Maldon recommended)
12 oz high-quality dark chocolate (60-70% cacao), finely chopped
2 tablespoons coconut oil or shortening
Additional sea salt flakes for garnish

Instructions

Line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends over the sides for easy removal later.
In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat the sugar over medium heat. Allow the sugar to begin melting around the edges (3-4 minutes), then gently stir with a heat-resistant spatula to incorporate unmelted sugar. Continue cooking until sugar completely melts and turns a deep amber color (around 350°F).
Carefully add the butter (it will bubble vigorously). Stir continuously until butter is fully incorporated.
Remove from heat and slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. Add vanilla and ½ teaspoon sea salt, stirring until smooth. If any hard clumps form, return to low heat and stir until dissolved.
Pour caramel mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Cool at room temperature for 15 minutes, then refrigerate to set completely (at least 2 hours or overnight).
Once caramel is set, place chopped chocolate and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely melted and smooth.
Remove caramel from refrigerator and lift out using parchment paper. Cut into 1-inch squares and roll between palms to form balls. If caramel becomes too soft, return to refrigerator for 10-15 minutes.
Using two forks or a dipping tool, dip each caramel ball into melted chocolate. Allow excess to drip off, then place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
While chocolate is still wet, sprinkle each truffle with sea salt flakes.
Allow truffles to set completely at room temperature (about 1 hour) or in refrigerator (about 20 minutes).

Notes

For best results, ensure all ingredients for the caramel are at room temperature.
Avoid stirring sugar too early to prevent crystallization.
For glossier truffles, allow them to set at room temperature rather than in the refrigerator.
For dairy-free version, substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use plant-based butter.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
For best flavor, bring refrigerated truffles to room temperature 15-20 minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop, No-Bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 truffle
Calories: 145
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 65mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 12mg

Keywords: salted caramel truffles, homemade chocolate truffles, caramel dessert, gourmet candy, easy chocolate truffles, sea salt caramel, no-bake dessert