Cheat’s Pudding Truffles: An Indulgent Delight

The memory is etched in my mind: Christmastime, snow softly falling outside, and the aroma of brandy mingling with cocoa drifting from the kitchen. My grandmother, a whirlwind in her apron, would always make these incredibly decadent “pudding truffles”. She called them her ‘little cheats’ – a playful wink to the fact that they required minimal effort but delivered maximum impact. They were always the first treat to disappear from the dessert table, little bites of pure festive joy. Now, years later, I carry on her tradition, sharing this ridiculously easy and delicious recipe with you.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes (for melting chocolate)
• Total Time: 20 minutes (plus refrigeration time)
• Servings: 30 truffles
• Yield: 30 truffles
• Dietary Type: Not Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 (350g) plum puddings
• 50g melted butter
• ½ cup cocoa powder
• ½ cup brandy
• 150g white eating chocolate, chopped
• 8 glace cherries

Equipment Needed

• Large bowl
• Mixing spoon
• Small saucepan
• Heatproof bowl (for melting chocolate)
• Baking tray
• Spoon or fork (for coating truffles)

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing your base. In a large bowl, break the plum puddings into small pieces. The smaller the pieces, the easier they will be to combine with the other ingredients.

2. In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, cocoa powder, and brandy. Stir these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, glossy mixture. The brandy adds a lovely depth of flavor, but you can substitute with rum or even strong coffee if preferred.

3. Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the butter mixture to the broken pudding pieces. Using a spoon or your hands (if you don’t mind getting a little messy!), stir to thoroughly combine. The mixture should be evenly coated and begin to form a sticky dough.

4. Roll rounded tablespoons of the pudding mixture into approximately 30 balls. Don’t worry about perfection here; rustic charm is part of their appeal. Place the formed truffles onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking.

5. Next, prepare the white chocolate coating. The key here is to melt it gently to avoid seizing. Place the chopped white chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of gently simmering water (making sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water). Stir frequently until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Stand the melted chocolate until it has slightly thickened but is still pourable. This consistency will allow for a good coating on the truffles.

6. Using a spoon or fork, spoon a little melted white chocolate over each pudding truffle. Ensure each truffle is adequately coated. You can also dip the truffles individually into the chocolate for a more even coating.

7. Before the chocolate sets, top each truffle with a piece of glace cherry. This adds a pop of color and a touch of festive sweetness. You can halve or quarter the cherries depending on their size.

8. Finally, refrigerate the truffles for at least an hour, or until the chocolate is firm and the truffles are set. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overmix the pudding mixture: Overmixing can result in tough truffles. Gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated.
• Melting the chocolate: Patience is key! Low and slow is the best approach to melting white chocolate. If it seizes, try adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil and stirring vigorously.
• Chill time: Allow ample time for the truffles to chill in the refrigerator. This will ensure they hold their shape and have the right consistency.
• Add a touch of spice: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the pudding mixture.
• For a darker truffle, use dark chocolate instead of white.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Cheat’s Pudding Truffles are best served chilled. Arrange them attractively on a platter for parties or enjoy them as a decadent after-dinner treat.

Storage:

• Room Temperature: Not recommended for extended periods due to the chocolate coating.
• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the truffles in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	250 kcal	13%
Total Fat	15g	23%
Saturated Fat	9g	45%
Cholesterol	2mg	1%
Sodium	20mg	1%
Total Carbohydrate	25g	8%
Dietary Fiber	2g	8%
Sugars	15g	30%
Protein	2g	4%

Variations & Substitutions

• Boozy Boost: Experiment with different liqueurs instead of brandy, such as amaretto, Baileys, or Kahlua.
• Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds) to the pudding mixture for added texture and flavor.
• Chocolate Swap: Use milk chocolate or dark chocolate instead of white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of chili flakes into the chocolate coating for a surprising kick.
• Citrus Zest: Add orange or lemon zest to the pudding mixture for a bright, refreshing twist.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make these truffles ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! These truffles are perfect for making ahead. Simply prepare them and store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Q: Can I use different types of pudding?
A: While this recipe calls for plum pudding, you can experiment with other types of dense, rich puddings. Just ensure they have a similar consistency.

Q: My chocolate seized up while melting. What do I do?
A: Don’t panic! Try adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil or shortening to the chocolate and stirring vigorously. This can often help to smooth it out. Avoid getting any water into the chocolate while melting, as this can cause it to seize.

Q: Can I make these without alcohol?
A: Yes, you can substitute the brandy with strong brewed coffee or even orange juice. This will still add moisture and flavor to the truffles.

Q: The truffle mixture is too sticky to roll into balls. What should I do?
A: Try chilling the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will help it firm up and make it easier to handle.

Final Thoughts

These Cheat’s Pudding Truffles are more than just a recipe; they’re a shortcut to indulgence, a nod to tradition, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dessert for the holidays or simply craving a little something sweet, these truffles are sure to hit the spot. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the “cheat,” and prepare to be amazed by the simplicity and deliciousness of this delightful treat. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and make them your own. And, most importantly, share the joy! Let me know what you think and how you make them your own! Happy baking!