Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Elegant Presentation: Tartufo’s sophisticated appearance makes it an impressive dessert for special occasions.
- Customizable Flavors: Easily adapt the recipe with your favorite ice cream flavors and coatings to suit your taste.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare in advance and store in the freezer until ready to serve, simplifying your entertaining.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 quart vanilla ice cream
- 8 maraschino cherries
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 5 tablespoons unrefined coconut oil
- Optional coatings: crushed chocolate wafer cookies, chopped salted roasted pistachios
Directions
- Prepare the Ice Cream Centers: Let the vanilla ice cream sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly. Line 8 small bowls with plastic wrap, leaving an overhang.
- Form the Ice Cream Balls: Using a 1/4-cup ice cream scoop, place a scoop of ice cream into each prepared bowl. Press a maraschino cherry into the center of each scoop, then top with another 1/4-cup scoop of ice cream, covering the cherry completely. Wrap the plastic over each ice cream ball and freeze until firm, at least 3 hours or overnight.
- Prepare the Chocolate Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Coat the Ice Cream Balls: Remove the ice cream balls from the freezer and unwrap them. Using a fork or skewer, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. If desired, immediately roll the chocolate-covered balls in crushed cookies or chopped nuts. Place the coated tartufos on a parchment-lined tray and return to the freezer until the chocolate sets, about 1 hour.
- Serve: Once the chocolate shell is firm, serve the tartufos directly from the freezer.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields 8 tartufos.
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes (active)
- Freezing Time: At least 4 hours
- Total Time: Approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes
Variations
- Flavor Options: Substitute vanilla ice cream with chocolate, pistachio, or hazelnut gelato for different taste experiences.
- Fruit Fillings: Replace the maraschino cherry with a fresh raspberry, strawberry, or a spoonful of fruit preserves.
- Alternative Coatings: Experiment with white or milk chocolate for the shell, and consider rolling the tartufos in toasted coconut, sprinkles, or cocoa powder.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store assembled tartufos in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
- Serving: For best texture, serve the tartufos directly from the freezer without thawing.
FAQs
What is tartufo?
Tartufo is an Italian dessert consisting of ice cream with a hidden center, typically fruit or chocolate, encased in a hard chocolate shell.
Can I make tartufo without coconut oil?
Yes, you can use vegetable oil or melted butter as a substitute for coconut oil in the chocolate coating.
How far in advance can I prepare tartufo?
Tartufo can be made up to two weeks in advance and stored in the freezer until ready to serve.
Can I use homemade ice cream for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade ice cream works well and allows for customization of flavors.
What if I don’t have small bowls for molding the ice cream?
You can use a muffin tin lined with plastic wrap or form the ice cream balls by hand and place them on a lined baking sheet to freeze.
Is it necessary to use a cherry in the center?
No, you can omit the cherry or replace it with another filling like nuts, chocolate truffles, or fruit pieces.
Can I use dark chocolate for the coating?
Yes, dark chocolate can be used for a richer flavor. Adjust the sweetness by choosing chocolate with your preferred cocoa content.
How do I prevent the chocolate coating from cracking?
Ensure the melted chocolate is slightly cooled before dipping, and work quickly to prevent the ice cream from melting, which can cause cracking.
What toppings pair well with tartufo?
Fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce complement tartufo nicely.
Conclusion
Tartufo offers a delightful combination of creamy ice cream, a surprise center, and a crisp chocolate shell, making it a standout dessert for any occasion. Its versatility allows for endless flavor combinations, enabling you to tailor it to your preferences. Whether prepared for a special event or as a treat to enjoy at home, this tartufo recipe is sure to impress and satisfy your sweet cravings.
Print
Tartufo Recipe
- Total Time: Approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 tartufos
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tartufo is a classic Italian dessert that combines rich vanilla ice cream, a sweet maraschino cherry center, and a crisp chocolate shell. This indulgent treat is perfect for any special occasion and can be customized with different ice cream flavors and toppings.
Ingredients
- Ice Cream Base: 1 quart vanilla ice cream
- Center: 8 maraschino cherries
- Chocolate Coating: 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips, 5 tablespoons unrefined coconut oil
- Optional Coatings: Crushed chocolate wafer cookies, chopped salted roasted pistachios
Instructions
- Prepare Ice Cream Centers: Let the vanilla ice cream soften at room temperature for about 10 minutes. Line 8 small bowls with plastic wrap, leaving overhang.
- Form Ice Cream Balls: Scoop 1/4-cup of softened ice cream into each bowl. Press a cherry into the center of each scoop, then top with another scoop of ice cream, completely covering the cherry. Wrap the plastic over each ball and freeze until firm (at least 3 hours or overnight).
- Prepare Chocolate Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
- Coat Ice Cream Balls: Unwrap each frozen ice cream ball and dip them into the melted chocolate, ensuring complete coverage. Immediately roll in crushed cookies or chopped nuts if desired. Place on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until chocolate sets, about 1 hour.
- Serve: Once the chocolate coating is firm, serve tartufos directly from the freezer.
Notes
- Flavor Variations: Try chocolate, pistachio, or hazelnut gelato for different flavor combinations.
- Alternative Fillings: Use fresh berries or fruit preserves instead of cherries for a unique twist.
- Coating Options: Experiment with white or milk chocolate for the shell, or roll in coconut, sprinkles, or cocoa powder for added texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: Italian
