Peppermint Truffles (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 3 candy canes, smashed into small pieces.
02 - 3/4 cup of thick crème fraîche.
03 - 8 ounces of dark chocolate, finely chopped.
04 - 2 tablespoons salted butter.
05 - A pinch of peppermint extract, about 1/4 teaspoon.
06 - Options for toppings include: red sugar sprinkles.
07 - Cocoa powder for coating.
08 - Extra crushed candy cane pieces.

# Instructions:

01 - On a medium flame, heat the crème fraîche and butter in a medium pan until it comes to a gentle boil.
02 - Pour the hot cream mix over the chopped chocolate in a medium-sized bowl.
03 - Leave the bowl undisturbed for 5 minutes to allow the chocolate to soften.
04 - Stir everything together till the chocolate is entirely melted and smooth.
05 - Mix the peppermint extract into the melted chocolate until well blended.
06 - Mix the crushed candy canes into the chocolate mixture evenly.
07 - Pop the chocolate mix into the fridge for 1 to 2 hours until it firms up enough to be shaped.
08 - Lightly coat your hands in cocoa powder so the chocolate doesn’t stick as you work.
09 - Scoop out small portions, about a tablespoon each, from the chilled mixture.
10 - Roll each chocolate portion between your palms to make smooth round balls.
11 - Lay out your selected toppings in shallow dishes for rolling.
12 - Roll the chocolate balls in the toppings until they’re fully covered.
13 - Arrange the coated truffles neatly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
14 - Set the truffles in the fridge for another 1 to 2 hours, or until they harden completely.
15 - Keep the truffles in a sealed container in your fridge to make sure they stay fresh.

# Notes:

01 - A sweet idea for the holidays.
02 - Can be prepped ahead of time.
03 - Lots of topping choices to try.
04 - Lovely as a homemade gift!