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Chocolate, Pistachio, and Tahini Truffles

4.2

(26)

A tray of truffles.
Photo by Chelsea Kyle, Prop Styling by Astrid Chastka, Food Styling by Anna Hampton

The perfect party treat, these two-bite truffles can easily be made ahead of time and are a wonderful accompaniment to a glass of bubbly. In this version, tahini (ground sesame paste) replaces the traditional heavy cream for a nuttier flavor.

Cooks' Note

Truffles can be rolled in a variety of toppings, such as cocoa powder, powdered sugar, chopped candy, or spices.

Recipe information

  • Total Time

    1 hour, 30 minutes

  • Yield

    Makes 26 truffles

Ingredients

1 cup tahini
6 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon finely grated orange zest
1 cup shelled roasted, salted pistachios
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons toasted white sesame seeds

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Heat tahini, chocolate, honey, salt, cinnamon, and orange zest in a medium heatproof bowl set over a medium saucepan of barely simmering water (bottom of bowl should not touch water), stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between bursts, until melted and smooth.

    Step 2

    Carefully pour tahini mixture into a glass or metal tall-sided baking pan (an 8x8" pan works well). Chill until truffle base is firm, 60–70 minutes.

    Step 3

    Meanwhile, finely chop pistachios by hand or with a food processor. Mix pistachios and sesame seeds in a medium bowl.

    Step 4

    Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment or wax paper. Scoop tahini mixture by the tablespoonful and quickly roll into 1" balls between the palms of your hands. Toss in pistachio-sesame mixture until coated. Using a spoon, gently transfer to prepared sheet.

  2. Do Ahead

    Step 5

    Truffles can be made 5 days ahead; cover and chill. Let sit at room temperature 15 minutes before serving.

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