There are few gifts more appreciated than a delicious box of assorted truffles... but a box of truffles that you made yourself is even more impressive. While plain chocolate truffles are delicious, your friends will be even more in awe if you present them with a box of espresso and raspberry flavored truffles that you made in your own kitchen. Here are simple directions for making each type. 

Espresso Truffles

Ingredients:

• 10 ounces bittersweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup brewed espresso
• 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
• 1 tablespoon brandy
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder

Directions:

Combine the chocolate chips and butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on medium heat for 1 minute, and then remove them from the microwave to stir. Continue microwaving in 30-second increments, stirring each time, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Set this melted chocolate aside.

In a heavy saucepan, combine the corn syrup, cream, and espresso. Warm over medium heat, just until the mixture starts to simmer. Pour this cream mixture into the melted chocolate. Also add the brandy, and stir until uniform. Place the mixture in the refrigerator to chill for 2 hours.

Scoop the chilled mixture out by the teaspoon, and use your hands to roll each spoonful into a ball. Roll each ball in cocoa powder, and place them on parchment paper. Keep covered in the refrigerator.

Raspberry Truffles

Ingredients:

• 10 ounces bittersweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons raspberry liqueur
• 1 teaspoon raspberry extract
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder

Directions:

Combine the heavy cream, butter, and corn syrup in a saucepan, and heat until the mixture begins simmering. Turn the heat down to low, and add the chocolate chips one handful at a time. After each addition, continue stirring until the chocolate is melted and completely incorporated. When all of the chocolate has been added, remove the mixture from the heat, and let it rest for 10 minutes. Then, stir in the raspberry liqueur and extract. Place the mixture in the fridge to chill for 2 hours.

Scoop the truffle mixture out by the teaspoon, and shape each teaspoon into a ball. Roll the balls in cocoa, and place them on parchment. Refrigerate until ready to eat.

Each of these recipes makes about 30 truffles, so if you make them both, you'll have plenty to share. If you don't have time to make your own truffles, check out websites like http://www.abdallahcandies.com to find gifts for your friends.