Fran’s Chocolates Favorites: A Decadent Delight

Fran’s Chocolates Favorites are a collection of indulgent treats that are loved by chocolate enthusiasts around the world. This recipe combines some of Fran’s most beloved creations, including truffles, caramels, and chocolate-covered fruits, into one delightful assortment. Whether you’re making these chocolates for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, they’re sure to impress with their rich flavors and luxurious textures. Follow this recipe to recreate Fran’s Chocolates Favorites in your own kitchen and enjoy the decadence of these gourmet treats.

Ingredients for Fran’s Chocolates Favorites:

For the Truffles:

• 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• Cocoa powder, chopped nuts, or sprinkles for coating

For the Caramels:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Sea salt for sprinkling

For the Chocolate-Covered Fruits:

• Assorted dried fruits (such as apricots, cherries, and figs)
• 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

How to Make Fran’s Chocolates Favorites:

Making the Truffles:

1. Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and butter over medium heat until it just begins to boil.
3. Pour the hot cream mixture over the chocolate and let it sit for a few minutes to melt the chocolate.
4. Stir the mixture until smooth and well combined.
5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
6. Using a small scoop or spoon, scoop out small portions of the truffle mixture and roll them into balls.
7. Roll the truffles in cocoa powder, chopped nuts, or sprinkles to coat.
8. Place the coated truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate until firm.

Making the Caramels:

1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, corn syrup, and sugar.
3. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves.
4. Continue cooking, without stirring, until the mixture reaches 248°F (120°C) on a candy thermometer, about 10-15 minutes.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
6. Pour the caramel into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with sea salt.
7. Let the caramel cool completely, then refrigerate until firm.
8. Cut the caramel into small squares and wrap each square in wax paper.

Making the Chocolate-Covered Fruits:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Dip each dried fruit into the melted chocolate, coating it completely.
3. Place the chocolate-covered fruits on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate until the chocolate is set.

About the Main Ingredients:

• Bittersweet Chocolate: This type of chocolate has a higher cocoa content and less sugar, giving it a rich, intense flavor that is perfect for truffles.
• Heavy Cream: Used in both the truffles and caramels, heavy cream adds richness and creaminess to the chocolates.
• Butter: Adds flavor and richness to the truffles and caramels, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
• Cocoa Powder, Nuts, or Sprinkles: Used for coating the truffles, these ingredients add flavor and texture to the finished chocolates.
• Light Corn Syrup: Helps prevent crystallization in the caramel mixture, resulting in a smooth texture.
• Sugar: Sweetens the caramels and helps create a chewy texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds flavor to the caramels.
• Sea Salt: Sprinkled on top of the caramels, sea salt enhances the flavors and adds a contrasting salty note.
• Semisweet Chocolate: Used for coating the dried fruits, semisweet chocolate adds sweetness and a glossy finish to the chocolates.
• Vegetable Oil: Added to the melted chocolate, vegetable oil helps thin the chocolate for easier dipping and creates a smoother coating.

Enjoy Fran’s Chocolates Favorites as a special treat or give them as gifts to friends and family. These decadent chocolates are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves chocolate!