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Ingredients
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Ganache
Coatings & Finishing
Assembly Tools (non-edible)
Method
Ganache
Prepare chocolate
Place the finely chopped semisweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl and set aside near the stove so it's ready when cream is heated.
Heat cream and wine
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, Kelleher Cabernet Sauvignon and light corn syrup. Warm the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, and bring it just to a gentle simmer (small bubbles forming at the edge). Do not boil — total time to reach simmer is about 5–7 minutes.
Emulsify ganache
Immediately pour the hot cream-and-wine mixture over the chopped chocolate. Let sit undisturbed for 2 minutes to soften the chocolate, then gently whisk from the center outward until smooth and glossy and all chocolate is melted (about 1–2 minutes).
Finish ganache
Whisk in the unsalted butter and salt until incorporated and the ganache is smooth. Taste and, if desired, add a splash (1–2 teaspoons) more cabernet for brightness. If the ganache seems too loose, chill; if too firm, warm gently over a double boiler for a few seconds.
Coating & Finishing
Portion truffles
Line a baking sheet with parchment or a silicone mat. Using a small scoop or two spoons, portion rounded tablespoons (about 10–12 g or 1/2 tablespoon) of chilled ganache and place them on the prepared sheet, leaving space between each. If ganache is too firm to scoop, let it sit at room temperature 5–10 minutes; if too soft, return to chill briefly.
Roll into rounds
Using hands (lightly dusted with cocoa or powdered sugar to prevent sticking) or two spoons, quickly roll each portion into a smooth ball. Work efficiently to avoid melting from warm hands. If desired, chill balls on the tray for 10–15 minutes to firm before coating.
Chocolate shell (optional)
If making a chocolate shell, melt the 6 oz dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a gentle simmer (double boiler) or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring often until smooth. Stir in up to 1 tsp neutral oil if needed to thin. Using a fork, dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate to coat, letting excess drip off, then place on parchment. Allow shells to set at room temperature or chill briefly to speed setting.
Final chill & store
Once coated and set, transfer truffles to an airtight box lined with parchment. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Truffles keep refrigerated for up to 10 days; bring to cool room temperature 20–30 minutes before serving for best texture and aroma.
Presentation
Arrange truffles in a box or small paper liners for a Box of Brix presentation. If gifting, line the box with tissue and include a label indicating 'Kelleher Cabernet Sauvignon Ganache Truffles' and a best-by date. Serve at cool room temperature to showcase the cabernet flavor.