Tuscan Truffles: A Rich and Flavorful Bite-Sized Delight

Tuscan Truffles are a luxurious, savory appetizer that combines the richness of fresh goat cheese and mascarpone with the bold flavors of prosciutto, dried figs, and Parmesan. These bite-sized delights are perfect for entertaining guests or serving at a special occasion. The combination of tangy cheese, aromatic garlic, and the unique sweetness from figs creates an unforgettable flavor profile. Whether served at a party or enjoyed as a delicious snack, these Tuscan Truffles will certainly impress.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make these irresistible truffles, share advanced techniques to elevate the dish, and offer tips for storing and adapting the recipe for various dietary preferences.

For more Italian-inspired appetizers, check out this Tuscan-inspired recipe collection or these Italian cheese appetizers.

Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

This simple yet elegant recipe for Tuscan Truffles blends fresh cheese, savory prosciutto, and the sweetness of dried figs, creating a delightful appetizer that is both sophisticated and flavorful.

Tuscan Truffles Recipe: A Savory, Sweet, and Creamy Appetizer

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• Author: Jennifer Mitchell
• Total Time: 50 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: 24 truffles 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Tuscan Truffles are savory, bite-sized delights filled with a rich mixture of goat cheese, mascarpone, prosciutto, figs, and Parmesan, all wrapped in a crunchy coating of toasted pine nuts. Perfect for appetizers or as a sophisticated snack, these truffles bring together the flavors of Italy in a fun, gourmet way.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 logs (4 ounces each) fresh goat cheese
• 1 carton (8 ounces) mascarpone cheese
• 6 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1–1/2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1–1/2 teaspoons white balsamic vinegar
• 3/4 teaspoon grated lemon zest
• 3 ounces (6 tablespoons) chopped prosciutto
• 3 ounces (6 tablespoons) finely chopped dried figs
• 3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup pine nuts, toasted and chopped

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Instructions

1. Prepare the cheese mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh goat cheese, mascarpone cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Use a spoon or your hands to mix the cheeses together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the flavoring ingredients: Stir in the minced garlic, olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, grated lemon zest, and chopped prosciutto. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Incorporate the figs and parsley: Add the finely chopped dried figs, minced fresh parsley, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Stir until evenly distributed.
4. Shape the truffles: Using your hands, scoop out small portions of the cheese mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls.
5. Coat with pine nuts: Roll each truffle in the toasted and chopped pine nuts until they are evenly coated.
6. Chill: Arrange the truffles on a platter and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up.
7. Serve: Once chilled, serve the Tuscan Truffles as a delightful appetizer or snack.

Notes

• You can make these truffles ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 2 days.
• For added flavor, drizzle a little extra balsamic vinegar over the truffles before serving.
• If you’re not a fan of prosciutto, you can substitute with finely chopped salami or another cured meat.
• The pine nuts can also be substituted with chopped almonds or walnuts for a different texture and flavor.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Appetizer, Snack
• Method: Mixing, Rolling, Chilling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 truffle
• Calories: 100
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Tuscan Truffles Recipe

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh goat cheese and mascarpone cheese. Use a spatula or a hand mixer to blend them together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Flavorings: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, and lemon zest. Mix everything thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Add Prosciutto and Figs: Fold in the chopped prosciutto and finely chopped dried figs. The prosciutto adds a savory depth of flavor, while the figs contribute a sweet contrast that balances the richness of the cheese.
4. Season the Mixture: Add the minced parsley and pepper, then stir everything together to combine.
5. Form the Truffles: Once the mixture is well combined, use your hands or a spoon to form small balls, about the size of a golf ball, from the cheese mixture. Roll the truffles gently to ensure they are smooth and evenly shaped.
6. Coat with Pine Nuts: Roll each truffle in the toasted and chopped pine nuts until they are fully coated. The pine nuts will add a delightful crunch and a rich, nutty flavor to each bite.
7. Chill: Place the formed truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate and refrigerate them for at least 1 hour to allow them to firm up and develop their full flavor.
8. Serve: Once chilled, arrange the Tuscan Truffles on a platter and serve with fresh bread, crackers, or as part of an antipasto platter. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

Advanced Techniques

While the basic recipe for Tuscan Truffles is already delicious, there are several advanced techniques to elevate these truffles for a more refined experience.

Infuse the Olive Oil

For an extra layer of flavor, try infusing the olive oil with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil before adding it to the cheese mixture. Gently heat the oil with the herbs, let it cool, and then strain it before using. This will impart a fresh, herby flavor to the truffles.

Use Homemade Prosciutto

If you have access to homemade or high-quality prosciutto, it will add a richer, more authentic taste to the truffles. Slice the prosciutto thinly and chop it finely to distribute the flavor evenly throughout the mixture.

Roll in Flavored Nuts

Instead of plain pine nuts, consider rolling the truffles in flavored or seasoned nuts such as crushed pistachios, almonds, or hazelnuts. These will introduce new textures and flavors that complement the creamy cheese base.

Serve with a Balsamic Reduction

To add a sophisticated touch, drizzle the truffles with a balsamic reduction before serving. The sweet and tangy flavor of the reduction pairs wonderfully with the richness of the goat cheese and mascarpone.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

To ensure that your Tuscan Truffles stay fresh and flavorful, follow these tips for storage and maintenance.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Tuscan Truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to keep the container tightly sealed to prevent the truffles from absorbing any odors from other foods in the fridge.

Freezing the Truffles

If you want to make these truffles ahead of time, they freeze beautifully. Place the truffles in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to serve, let them thaw in the refrigerator for several hours.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the truffle mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Keep the mixture in the fridge and form the truffles just before serving. This allows the flavors to develop and saves you time on the day of your event.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

This recipe for Tuscan Truffles is quite versatile and can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences.

Dairy-Free Version

For a dairy-free version, substitute the mascarpone and goat cheese with dairy-free alternatives such as vegan cream cheese or cashew cheese. There are several great dairy-free cheeses on the market that will work well in this recipe. Just be sure to choose one that has a creamy texture and a mild flavor to balance the prosciutto and figs.

Gluten-Free Version

These Tuscan Truffles are naturally gluten-free, making them an excellent choice for those with gluten sensitivities. Just be sure to serve them with gluten-free crackers or bread if needed.

Low-Carb Version

To keep the recipe low-carb, serve the truffles with fresh vegetables like cucumber slices, celery sticks, or bell pepper strips instead of crackers or bread. The truffles themselves are low in carbs, so this will maintain the low-carb nature of the dish.

FAQs About Tuscan Truffles

1. Can I use other dried fruits instead of figs?

Yes, you can experiment with other dried fruits like apricots, dates, or raisins. Each fruit will provide a unique flavor and texture, so feel free to get creative based on your preferences.

2. Can I make these truffles ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these truffles a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve them.

3. Can I substitute the prosciutto?

If you’re looking for a substitute for prosciutto, you can use other cured meats like pancetta, speck, or even a vegetarian option such as smoked tofu or sun-dried tomatoes for a similar savory punch.

4. Can I make these truffles without pine nuts?

If you’re allergic to pine nuts or don’t have them on hand, you can substitute them with other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or pistachios. Toasted and chopped nuts will give the truffles the same crunchy texture and added flavor.

5. How long can I store the truffles?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, Tuscan Truffles will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. If freezing, they can last for up to a month.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Tuscan Truffles are a delicious and sophisticated appetizer that combines creamy cheese, savory prosciutto, and the sweetness of dried figs. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to formal events. By following the simple recipe and utilizing some advanced techniques, you can create a gourmet appetizer that will delight your guests.

With their rich flavors and beautiful presentation, Tuscan Truffles will become a staple in your appetizer repertoire. Don’t hesitate to get creative with substitutions and variations, and enjoy these irresistible truffles at your next gathering!