Chocolate-Covered Heart Cake Truffles

Name: Chocolate-Covered Heart Cake Truffles
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 truffles
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 12 oz dark chocolate, chopped; 1 tbsp coconut oil (optional)

Highlighted under: Home-Style Dessert Bakes

I've always been enchanted by the idea of transforming a simple cake into delightful truffles. With these Chocolate-Covered Heart Cake Truffles, I discovered the perfect balance of moist cake and rich chocolate coating. Each bite is a joyous explosion of flavors that feels indulgent without being overly sweet. I crafted these for a recent celebration and they were an instant hit! Plus, the heart shape adds a charming touch, making them ideal for sharing with loved ones on special occasions.

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-01-18T15:14:28.331Z

When I first set out to create these truffles, I didn’t realize just how magical they would turn out to be. The secret was in using a basic chocolate cake recipe and making sure it was perfectly moist. This allows the cake to easily form into delightful little spheres that melt in your mouth when coated in dark chocolate.

To make them visually appealing, I shaped them into little hearts, which added a special touch for gifting. The process was simple yet satisfying, leaving me with a plateful of decadent treats that disappeared quickly!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Importance of Cake Texture

The texture of the cake is pivotal for achieving the perfect truffle consistency. It’s essential to bake the cake only until just done, approximately 15 minutes, to maintain moisture without overcooking. Undercooking slightly can lead to a rich, fudgy texture that enhances the bites later when crumbled. If you find the cake too dry, consider adding an extra tablespoon of milk during mixing to keep that moistness intact, ensuring each truffle has a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Once you've crumbled the cake, you might notice it feels too dry or too wet. Aim for a crumb size similar to sand; this makes it easier to form into hearts. If the crumbs are too dry and don't hold shape, feel free to mix in a tablespoon of frosting or cream cheese until they can be molded easily. The moisture addition is critical to achieve the creamy mouthfeel that pairs deliciously with the chocolate coating.

Chocolate Coating Tips

For the chocolate coating, using dark chocolate provides a rich flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cake. When melting the chocolate, opt for high-quality options with at least 60% cocoa to achieve that glossy finish. If you want a shiny coating, the addition of coconut oil not only helps achieve that but also provides a slight tropical flavor. Just be cautious with the intervals while melting; stirring every 30 seconds prevents overheating and ensures a smooth, manageable consistency.

Once you've dipped your truffles, allow the chocolate to set at room temperature. If you're in a hurry, you can pop them into the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to hasten the process. However, ensure they are on the parchment lined tray without touching, to prevent sticking together. A successful coating should be thin and even, which enhances the visual appeal while providing just the right crunch before revealing the truffle center.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Coating

12 oz dark chocolate, chopped
1 tbsp coconut oil (optional)

Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Bake the Cake

Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.

Prepare the Cake Crumbs

Once the cake is cool, crumble it into a large bowl until it resembles fine crumbs. This should yield about 2 cups of cake crumbs.

Form the Truffles

Scoop tablespoons of cake crumbs and roll them into heart shapes using your hands. Place the formed hearts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and coconut oil. Melt in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.

Coat the Truffles

Dip each heart-shaped truffle in the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Place back on the parchment-lined tray and allow the chocolate to set.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the chocolate has hardened, serve your truffles immediately or store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top of the truffles before the chocolate hardens.

Pro Tips

Pair these truffles with fresh fruit for a fantastic flavor contrast.

Storage Solutions

These Chocolate-Covered Heart Cake Truffles can be stored efficiently in an airtight container. I recommend placing parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking. When kept in the refrigerator, they can last for up to one week without compromising flavor. If you're a fan of making sweets ahead of time, these truffles freeze wonderfully. Just place them in a single layer on a tray to freeze them first, then transfer to a freezer bag where they can be kept for up to three months.

For serving, consider letting them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes after taking them out of the fridge or freezer. This way, the chocolate softens slightly, enhancing the rich flavor and making them pleasantly chewy. They make for a great addition to dessert platters or as party favors.

Variations and Additions

Feel free to experiment with flavors! Adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the cake mix enriches the cocoa flavor, while incorporating finely grated lemon zest into your chocolate coating introduces a delicious citrus note that balances the sweetness. You can also switch up the chocolate; try white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier version or a mix of milk and dark chocolate for an overall smoother flavor profile.

For a touch of fun, consider rolling your truffles in crushed nuts, sprinkles, or toffee bits before the chocolate sets. These toppings not only enhance texture but also add an appealing visual element that makes these truffles even more inviting during gatherings or celebrations. You can even adjust the shape from hearts to simple spheres for a quick yet classy treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate or white chocolate for coating, but adjust sweetness accordingly.

→ How can I store the truffles?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these truffles?

Absolutely! Freeze them in a single layer and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

→ What can I do if my chocolate coating is too thick?

Add a little more coconut oil to thin out the chocolate for easier dipping.