Strawberry Truffles

### Instructions:

#### 1. **Prepare the Strawberry Filling:**
If you’re using freeze-dried strawberries, start by placing them in a food processor or blender and pulse until they form a fine powder. This will give the truffle filling a smooth texture. If you prefer fresh strawberries, chop them finely and remove excess moisture by placing them in a paper towel to absorb any liquid.

In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low to medium heat until it just begins to simmer—don’t let it boil. Once heated, remove the cream from the heat and add the white chocolate chips (or chopped white chocolate). Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.

Now, stir in the strawberry powder or finely chopped fresh strawberries and vanilla extract, if using. This will create a creamy strawberry-infused ganache. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then place it in the refrigerator for about 1-2 hours to firm up. This will make it easier to shape the truffles later.

#### 2. **Shape the Truffles:**
Once the strawberry ganache has chilled and firmed up, it’s time to shape the truffles. Using a small cookie scoop or teaspoon, take about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball with your hands. Place the rolled truffle on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Continue this process with the rest of the ganache until you’ve shaped all of the truffles.

If the mixture starts to soften and become too sticky while you’re rolling, place it back in the fridge for a few minutes to firm up again.

#### 3. **Prepare the Chocolate Coating:**
While the truffles are cooling, melt the chocolate coating. In a heatproof bowl, place your dark or milk chocolate and coconut oil (or vegetable shortening). You can melt the chocolate using a microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, or use a double boiler on the stove to gently melt the chocolate until smooth and glossy.

Once the chocolate is melted, let it cool slightly before dipping the truffles.

#### 4. **Coat the Truffles:**
Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each strawberry truffle into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Gently tap the fork on the side of the bowl to remove any excess chocolate, then place the coated truffle back onto the parchment paper.

If desired, you can add a little extra flair by rolling the truffles in chopped nuts, sprinkles, or crushed freeze-dried strawberries before the chocolate coating sets. This step adds a lovely finishing touch and a bit of extra texture to the truffles.

#### 5. **Chill and Set:**
Allow the truffles to set and harden in the fridge for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate coating has fully firmed up. Once set, your strawberry truffles are ready to enjoy!

### Why You’ll Love Strawberry Truffles:

– **Creamy, Sweet, and Fruity:** The combination of fresh strawberry flavor and rich, velvety white chocolate ganache makes these truffles a perfect indulgence. The strawberry filling is smooth and creamy, with just the right amount of tang to complement the sweetness of the chocolate coating.
– **Beautiful Presentation:** Strawberry truffles look gorgeous when plated. Their glossy, dark chocolate coating and occasional dusting of fruit or sprinkles make them a standout treat for any occasion.
– **Perfect for Gifting:** These truffles make an excellent gift for loved ones. They’re a thoughtful, homemade treat that shows you put time and care into your present, whether it’s for a birthday, a holiday, or a simple gesture of appreciation.
– **Customizable:** While the classic strawberry filling is fantastic on its own, feel free to experiment with other flavor pairings. Add a splash of liqueur (like Chambord or Baileys), mix in a bit of citrus zest, or roll the truffles in crushed nuts for a crunchy contrast.

### Tips for Perfect Strawberry Truffles:

– **Freeze-Dried Strawberries:** Using freeze-dried strawberries is the easiest way to get that intense strawberry flavor without adding extra moisture to the ganache. Fresh strawberries can work, but be sure to remove excess moisture before mixing them into the ganache.
– **Storage:** Store your strawberry truffles in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week, though we’re sure they won’t last that long!
– **Make Ahead:** You can make the truffles ahead of time, up to a week in advance. Just be sure to keep them stored in a cool place, away from heat or sunlight, to maintain their texture.

### Final Thoughts:

Strawberry truffles are a luxurious yet easy-to-make treat that will leave everyone asking for more. With their sweet, creamy strawberry filling and rich chocolate coating, they’re the perfect way to indulge in a little bit of decadence. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or treating yourself to a well-deserved treat, these strawberry truffles are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and bring a smile to your face. So gather your ingredients and make these delightful truffles today—you’ll be glad you did!