Sweets for your sweet: Ingrid Callot on how to make homemade truffles

I am Ingrid Callot – mother, wife, recycling goddess, composting queen, fan of Oprah, the Dalai Lama, Martha Stewart, Julia Child, eco-friendly living, and physical fitness. I am also known in my neighborhood for my DIY crafts – aside from saving money and getting to recycle, I love the thought of making my gifts instead of merely buying them from stores.

Ingrid Callot Photo Credit: Whistlers.com

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, prices of flowers, stuffed animals, chocolates, greeting cards, perfumes, and lingerie have been rising steadily. Fortunately, you don’t always have to spend a bundle to let your special someone feel the love. I believe that it’s always the thought that matters –handmade gifts are more precious than those from stores.

Ingrid Callot Photo Credit: ScottishGourmetFood.com

Chocolate truffles make elegant gifts this season, and you can easily make them at home. Ingrid Callot here has made several batches of these sinful sweets through the years. Allow me to share my favorite recipe, courtesy of Food.com:

Homemade Truffles

Ingredients:
12 ounces semisweet chocolate
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
ground nuts or dry coconut powder , toasted

Directions:

*Melt chocolate in microwave on medium power.
*Stir occasionally; set aside.
*Beat cream cheese until smooth.
*Gradually add sugar, beating until well blended.
*Add melted chocolate and vanilla, mix well.
*Refrigerate for 1 hour.
*Roll into 1 inch balls.
*Roll in nuts or coconut.
*Store in refrigerator.

Place them in a pretty box, tie with a ribbon and enclose a love letter, and you’re all set for Valentine’s Day!

INgrid Callot Photo Credit: Rozannegold

Follow Ingrid Callot on Twitter for DIY projects and gift ideas.