These luxurious salted dark chocolate caramel truffles are the ultimate indulgence — featuring a gooey, buttery caramel center wrapped in rich, velvety dark chocolate and finished with a delicate sprinkle of sea salt. Perfect for gifting, parties, or a decadent bite-sized treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These truffles are a perfect balance of rich and sweet, with deep, bittersweet dark chocolate contrasting beautifully with smooth, buttery caramel. A touch of sea salt enhances every flavor and adds just the right amount of complexity. Whether you’re preparing a gift box or treating yourself, these truffles offer the elegance of gourmet confections with the satisfaction of homemade sweets. They require only a handful of ingredients and deliver impressive results every time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 tsp sea salt (plus more for garnish)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 10 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped
• 1 tsp coconut oil (optional, for smoother coating)

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar, stirring constantly, until it liquefies and turns a golden amber color.
2. Add the butter carefully and stir until fully melted and incorporated.
3. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring (the mixture will bubble up), and continue to stir until smooth.
4. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt and vanilla extract. Let the caramel cool until thick enough to scoop.
5. Line a tray with parchment paper. Scoop 1-teaspoon portions of the cooled caramel onto the tray. Freeze for 1 hour or until firm.
6. Melt the chopped dark chocolate with coconut oil (if using) in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
7. Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each frozen caramel ball into the melted chocolate, letting the excess chocolate drip off.
8. Place the coated truffles on a parchment-lined tray and immediately sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt.
9. Chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes, or until the chocolate coating has set.
10. Store in an airtight container in a cool place.

Servings and timing

Servings: 20–24 truffles
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 55 minutes

Variations

• Milk chocolate coating: Use high-quality milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor profile.
• Flavored caramel: Add a splash of bourbon, espresso, or orange extract to the caramel for unique variations.
• Nutty crunch: Press a roasted almond or pecan into the top of each truffle before the chocolate sets.
• Spiced caramel: Stir in a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper into the caramel for a warm or spicy twist.
• Vegan version: Use coconut cream and vegan butter for the caramel, and dairy-free dark chocolate for coating.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For the best texture, bring them to room temperature before serving.
Freezing: Truffles can be frozen in a single layer and transferred to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: These truffles are not meant to be reheated. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make the caramel in advance?

Yes, you can make the caramel up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Let it soften slightly before scooping.

Why did my caramel turn grainy?

Grainy caramel is usually caused by undissolved sugar crystals. Stir continuously and avoid introducing crystals from the sides of the pan.

What’s the best way to dip the truffles in chocolate?

Use a fork or dipping tool to lift the caramel balls out of the chocolate, allowing excess to drip off before placing them on parchment paper.

Can I use store-bought caramel?

For convenience, you can use a high-quality store-bought soft caramel, but homemade will yield a superior texture and flavor.

What chocolate is best for coating?

Use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a deep, rich flavor. Couverture chocolate is ideal if available.

Do I have to use coconut oil?

No, it’s optional. Coconut oil simply helps thin the chocolate slightly for a smoother coating.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free butter and cream for the caramel, and choose vegan dark chocolate.

How long do these truffles last?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or frozen for up to 2 months.

Can I skip the sea salt on top?

Yes, but the touch of sea salt enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness. It’s highly recommended.

What should I do if the caramel is too runny?

If the caramel is too soft to scoop, chill it longer or cook it slightly longer during preparation to thicken it.

Conclusion

Salted dark chocolate caramel truffles are a sophisticated yet approachable dessert that delivers indulgent texture and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or enjoying them as a personal treat, their combination of creamy caramel, bold dark chocolate, and a hint of sea salt makes them unforgettable. With just a little care and patience, these truffles can elevate your homemade sweets to artisan-level quality.

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