Boozy Brownie Truffles ~ Homemade Valentine's Day Candy

Just in time for Valentine's Day these brownie truffles are the perfect confection for the one you love. Never was homemade candy so easy... or so addictive and delicious. These decadent little bites are perfect for gifting or for a sweet, liqueur-soaked after dinner treat. If you don't drink alcohol or are making these with kids omit the liqueur and use my faithful favorite of d'Arbo syrup instead.

Boozy Brownie Bites ~ makes one dozen
6 ounces prepared brownies (use the fudgy middle bits)
6 ounces chocolate (dark, milk, white or semi-sweet), melted
1 tablespoon liqueur of your choice
optional garnish and/or filling such as marzipan

For each six ounces of brownies you will need one tablespoon of flavoring and six ounces of melted chocolate for dipping. I used Baileys with a semi-sweet coating; orange cognac (such as Grand Marnier) with dark chocolate and candied orange peel; and Frangelico with marzipan and white chocolate (some were semi-sweet with slivered almond garnish).

Crumble the brownies into a bowl and pour your liqueur of choice over the top. Combine well. Mixture will have the appearance of fudgy coffee grounds. Form into half-ounce balls by rolling between palms. Dip into melted chocolate and set on a silpat or parchment paper to dry. If using a garnish place garnish immediately so it adheres as the chocolate sets. You can also use a bead of marzipan as a luscious rolled filling.

You can find candy wrappers or foil cups at craft stores or online. These make a beautiful presentation in a small candy box and will really delight your friends. The only limit to these rich truffles is your imagination. Try kirsch with a dried cherry center; amaretto with finely chopped toasted almonds; limoncello with a candied lemon peel garnish; a soft caramel center with sea salt topping or toasted pecans - or anything else that strikes your fancy!

Enjoy!