Yesterday, frantic souls scoured greeting card aisles and waited in long lines at chocolate and floral shops, eager to find something to express their love. But, speaking as a woman, the best gift on Valentine’s Day is time spent together, free of distractions, your complete focus on the object of your affection. Of course, some chocolate is always welcome, too.

But why be like every else, buying a gift so generic as mass-produced chocolate, when you can easily show how much you truly treasure your valentine? Truly wow the love of your life with homemade chocolates. In most cases, candy making is tantamount to riding a unicycle, tedious and nearly impossible to execute successfully. But this fabulously simply recipe for handmade chocolate truffles is straightforward and quick.

Last time I made them for a soirée, one attendee remarked it was the best thing she’s ever eaten. I wouldn’t go that far, but they’re pretty darn good. Pair them with a nice bottle of your love’s favorite wine and a handmade card, and your valentine will definitely be impressed.

Have your own ideas for Valentine’s Day? Let me know what you’re doing to show your love!

Sweet and Simple Chocolate Truffles

1. Begin by melting 8 oz. of unsweetened baker’s chocolate.

2. Beat 8 oz. of cream cheese in a mixer and then add in the melted chocolate, plus 1 c. of confectioners sugar, ¼ tsp. of vanilla extract, and 1-1/2 tsp. milk. Mix together. Refrigerate the mixture until firm.
3. Take mixture out of fridge and shape into small balls the size of ping-pong balls. Place them on a baking sheet covered with waxed paper.

4. Melt another 8 oz. of semi-sweet baker’s chocolate. (I used Ghiradelli because it is divine.) 5. Dip truffle balls in the melted chocolate, using tongs to return them to the baking sheet.

6. Decorate with finely chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, sprinkles, candy hearts, or nonpareils. 7. Refrigerate for one hour. Package truffles in a decorative container and tie with a red or pink bow.