This delicious chocolate dessert is an easy one – and so delicious! I love a quick and simple dessert that tastes fantastic AND looks fancy enough for company. This recipe is a family favorite. Makes approximately 14 bonbons. SKIP DIRECTLY TO RECIPE
The Evolution of Bonbons
The term “Bonbons”, also sometimes spelled “Bon Bons”, is from the French word “bon”, which means good. They first appeared in the French royal court in the 17th century, starting as simple sugared almonds. In the 18th century, bonbon confectioners began to fill bonbons with various flavors and cover them in a chocolate shell. These changes marked a significant transformation of the taste and appearance of this delectable treat. Chocolate artists often decorated bonbons with intricate designs, sugar flowers, and/or edible glitter. Because they came in beautiful ornate packaging, they became popular gifts for special occasions.
Moving into the 19th century, bonbons gained popularity beyond France, spreading first to other European countries and eventually to the United States as a result of new mass production techniques. These fancy desserts are still enjoyed today by people around the world. They are available in a wide variety of creative flavors, fillings, and shapes.
Key Characteristics of Modern Bonbons
From their humble beginnings to their global popularity today, bonbons have been a favorite for sweet lovers for centuries. Their long history is a testament to their enduring appeal.
Chocolate Shell
Typically, the classic outer layer is made of chocolate, but other coatings like caramel or sugar are used regularly too.
Filling
The centers of bonbons are generally filled with ganache, fruit, cream, or other sweet ingredients.
Variety
Bonbons come in a wide range of flavors, from traditional to more creative, catering to different tastes and preferences. Below are a few examples of the many flavors available. Confectioners continue to experiment and create new and exciting bonbon combinations; the options are endless.
Classic flavors include:
- Chocolate: Dark, milk, or white chocolate are all commonly found in bonbons.
- Ganache: A decadent chocolate cream filling is a classic combination.
- Caramel: Confectioners often pair chewy caramel with chocolate for a sweet and salty contrast.
- Nougat: A chewy, nutty filling can add texture and flavor.
- Fruit: Bonbons filled with fruit flavors like raspberry, strawberry, or lemon are popular choices.
Unique flavors include:
- Coffee: Coffee-flavored ganache is a popular option for adults.
- Tea: Currently increasing in popularity are bonbons with tea flavors like Earl Grey.
- Spices: The addition of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, or ginger adds warmth and complexity.
- Liquor: Adding liquor like brandy, whiskey, or rum to bonbons provide a sophisticated taste.
- Nutty: Many enjoy bonbons filled with nuts like almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios.
When Is the Best Time to Serve Bonbons?
The best answer to “When is the best time to serve bonbons?” is whenever you want to indulge in a luxurious and delicious treat! Bonbons are versatile confections that are perfect for many different types of occasions. We often see them at weddings, anniversaries, birthdays and holidays, but bonbons are a wonderful addition to everyday occasions as well.
4 Ingredient Chocolate Bon-Bons With Baileys
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp better
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (will need an additional 1 Tbsp of heavy cream too)
- 3 Tbsp Irish Cream Liquer (Bailey's or Emmet's are our 2 favorite brands)
- 10 oz dark chocolate chips
- Coconuts, nuts or sprinkles OPTIONAL
Instructions
- Line a plate with parchment paper
- Pour bag of chocolate chips into a heat-proof bowl and set aside.
- Combine the butter and cream in a small saucepan over medium heat. Turn off the heat when you see small bubbles form around the edges of the saucepan
- Pour the butter and cream mixture over the chocolate and let stand for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir well, until smooth (if the chocolate does not melt from the heat from the cream mixture, heat in microwave for 20 seconds).
- When mixture is smooth, stir in the Irish cream liqueur. Place in the refrigerator until firm, but not so hard that it can't easily be scooped out.
- Using a melon baller (so the balls will be approximately the same size), scoop a bit of the mixture out and roll between your hands to shape
- Roll in your favorite topping or leave plain. Repeat with the remainder of the bonbon mix. Place each ball onto the parchment paper lined plate.
- Put the truffles in an air-tight container and refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy!
Pre-Made Bonbons You Can Purchase Online
Don’t have the time or interest to make your own bonbons? Or perhaps you simply want more of a variety than you can make at home. No worries – they are found easily all over. Here are some wonderful options you can purchase online.
Assorted Chocolate Bonbons
Available in both milk and dark chocolate, or a combination of the two, this delicious box of bonbons is amazing. Made with real Belgian chocolate with all-natural flavors and ingredients, they arrive in an elegant gift box from Seattle.
Chocolate Fig Bonbons
These dark chocolate truffle stuffed fig bonbons from Spain are really unique! They are a creative twist on the traditional dessert and are sure to please the most discriminating palates. The beautiful presentation makes them even more special.
Exotic Gourmet Chocolate Bonbons
This gift box features an assortment of fancy chocolate bonbons with exotic flavors made with gourmet chocolate imported from Belgium and France. And the delicious fillings are made with 100% natural ingredients using fruit purees, also imported from France. Each order comes packaged in an elegant gift box in an insulated bag with gel ice packs.
Leslie Farin is the Publisher and Founder of 50PlusToday. She is an experienced communications and marketing professional passionate about working with older adults and their families. She works with a team of writers to provide essential and cutting-edge information related to the 50Plus community.
