Italian Tartufo is a luxurious frozen dessert featuring a rich chocolate shell that encases a creamy ice cream center, often with a surprise filling inside. This elegant treat combines contrasting textures—smooth ice cream, firm chocolate coating, and a soft or crunchy core—creating a truly indulgent experience that feels straight out of an authentic Italian café.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This tartufo recipe brings the charm of a classic Italian dessert right into your kitchen with surprisingly simple steps. It looks impressive yet requires only a handful of ingredients. The combination of creamy ice cream and a crisp chocolate shell makes every bite irresistible. It’s perfect for dinner parties, special occasions, or whenever you want to serve something elegant without spending hours in the kitchen. You can also customize the flavors to suit your taste, making it as versatile as it is delicious.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 cups high-quality chocolate ice cream, slightly softened
1 cup vanilla ice cream, slightly softened
1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread or dark chocolate ganache (for the center)
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons coconut oil or neutral vegetable oil
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
Directions
Line a small bowl (about 1 cup capacity) with plastic wrap, leaving extra overhang for easy removal. Repeat with 6 bowls.
Scoop about 1/3 cup of chocolate ice cream into each lined bowl. Press it gently against the sides to form a hollow center. Place the bowls in the freezer for 30 minutes to firm up.
Add 1 tablespoon of chocolate hazelnut spread or ganache into the center of each shell. Top with about 2 tablespoons of vanilla ice cream to seal the center.
Cover the bottom with additional chocolate ice cream, smoothing the surface so it is flat and fully sealed. Freeze for at least 3–4 hours, or until completely solid.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with the coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and glossy. Allow the chocolate to cool slightly but remain pourable.
Remove the frozen ice cream balls from the bowls using the plastic wrap. Place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
Pour the melted chocolate evenly over each frozen ball, ensuring it is fully coated. The chocolate will harden quickly due to the cold ice cream.
Once set, lightly dust with unsweetened cocoa powder for a classic finish.
Return to the freezer for 15 minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6 individual tartufos
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Freezing time: 4 hours
Total time: Approximately 4 hours 25 minutes
Variations
For a nutty twist, roll the freshly coated tartufo in finely chopped toasted hazelnuts before the shell sets completely.
For a fruit surprise, replace the hazelnut spread with a frozen cherry in the center for a traditional flavor combination.
For a white chocolate version, use vanilla ice cream throughout and coat with melted white chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate.
For a mocha flavor, add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder to the melted chocolate coating.
For a crunchy interior, mix crushed chocolate cookies into the ice cream before shaping.
Storage/Reheating
Store tartufo in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Do not attempt to reheat, as this is a frozen dessert. Before serving, allow the tartufo to sit at room temperature for 3–5 minutes to slightly soften for easier slicing.
FAQs
What does tartufo mean?
Tartufo means “truffle” in Italian, referring to the dessert’s round shape resembling a chocolate truffle.
Can I use different ice cream flavors?
Yes, you can use any flavor combination you prefer, such as pistachio, strawberry, or coffee.
Why is my chocolate shell cracking?
If the chocolate is too hot when poured over the ice cream, rapid temperature change can cause cracking. Let the chocolate cool slightly before coating.
Can I make tartufo ahead of time?
Yes, it’s ideal for making ahead since it needs several hours to freeze completely.
Do I need special molds?
No, small bowls lined with plastic wrap work perfectly for shaping.
Can I make this without coconut oil?
Yes, you can substitute with vegetable oil or omit it, though the shell may be slightly less glossy.
How do I get a smooth chocolate coating?
Ensure the ice cream balls are fully frozen and pour the chocolate in one steady motion for even coverage.
Can I refreeze tartufo after serving?
Yes, but avoid letting it sit out too long to prevent ice crystals from forming when refrozen.
Is tartufo served sliced or whole?
It can be served whole for presentation, but slicing reveals the beautiful layered center.
Can I make a dairy-free version?
Yes, simply use dairy-free ice cream and dairy-free chocolate to adapt the recipe.
Conclusion
Italian Tartufo is a show-stopping dessert that delivers rich chocolate flavor, creamy texture, and elegant presentation all in one bite. With its simple preparation and customizable options, it’s the perfect treat for entertaining or indulging in a refined homemade dessert. Once you master this recipe, you’ll have a timeless Italian classic ready whenever you crave something truly decadent.
Italian Tartufo is an elegant frozen dessert made with creamy chocolate and vanilla ice cream surrounding a rich chocolate hazelnut center, all encased in a crisp chocolate shell and finished with a dusting of cocoa powder.
