Dark Chocolate Maple Buttercream Candies

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Dark Chocolate Maple Buttercream Candies – Silky, Sweet, and Irresistibly Sophisticated

If you’ve ever dreamed of making your own gourmet chocolates at home, these Dark Chocolate Maple Buttercream Candies are the perfect place to start. They’re rich, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet—thanks to a luscious maple buttercream center wrapped in a glossy dark chocolate shell. With only a handful of ingredients and no candy thermometer required, this recipe is approachable, elegant, and endlessly giftable.

Whether you’re preparing a holiday treat box, a romantic Valentine’s Day surprise, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these candies are a luxurious bite-sized delight.

Why You’ll Love These Candies

  • Velvety maple buttercream – Smooth, fluffy, and naturally sweetened with real maple syrup.
  • Deep dark chocolate shell – Balances the sweetness with rich, bittersweet flavor.
  • Easy to make – No special equipment or candy-making experience needed.
  • Perfect for gifting – Wrap in parchment or place in candy boxes for a homemade treat.
  • Make-ahead friendly – Store well in the fridge or freezer.

Ingredients

This recipe makes about 24 candies.

For the Maple Buttercream Filling:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup powdered sugar, sifted
  • ¼ cup pure maple syrup (preferably Grade A dark amber)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Chocolate Coating:

  • 8 ounces dark chocolate, finely chopped
    (Use high-quality chocolate bars or chips with at least 60% cacao)

Optional Garnishes:

  • Flaky sea salt
  • Crushed toasted pecans or walnuts
  • Edible gold dust or sprinkles

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Maple Buttercream

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.

Add the powdered sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on medium-high speed for 2–3 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and holds its shape.

Taste and adjust sweetness or salt if desired. The buttercream should be thick enough to scoop and shape.

Cover and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to firm up.

Step 2: Shape the Filling

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion the chilled buttercream into 1-inch balls. Roll gently between your palms to smooth.

Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and freeze for 30–45 minutes until firm.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

Place the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl.

Melt using a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and glossy.

Let cool slightly so it’s not too hot for dipping.

Step 4: Dip the Candies

Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each buttercream ball into the melted chocolate, coating completely.

Let excess chocolate drip off, then place the coated candy back on the parchment-lined sheet.

If desired, sprinkle with sea salt or other toppings before the chocolate sets.

Repeat with remaining candies.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the dipped candies for 15–20 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set.

Transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Let sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Time & Yield

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Chill Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: ~24 candies
  • Calories: ~120 kcal per candy (approximate)

Tips for Success

  • Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
  • Chill thoroughly before dipping to prevent melting.
  • Work in batches if your kitchen is warm.
  • Customize the flavor with extracts like almond or espresso.
  • Use a candy thermometer if tempering chocolate for a glossy, snappy finish.

Variations to Try

  • Milk Chocolate Coating: For a sweeter twist, use milk chocolate instead of dark.
  • Nutty Crunch: Roll the dipped candies in crushed pecans or hazelnuts.
  • Maple Mocha: Add ½ teaspoon espresso powder to the buttercream.
  • Holiday Spice: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a seasonal flair.
  • Truffle Style: Skip the chocolate coating and roll the buttercream in cocoa powder.

Perfect For…

  • Holiday candy trays
  • Valentine’s Day gifts
  • Wedding or baby shower favors
  • After-dinner treats
  • DIY hostess gifts
  • Just because you deserve something sweet

Final Thoughts

These Dark Chocolate Maple Buttercream Candies are a celebration of flavor and texture—silky, rich, and just the right amount of sweet. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and sure to impress anyone lucky enough to receive (or taste) them. Whether you’re crafting a holiday gift box or treating yourself to a homemade indulgence, these candies are a little luxury worth savoring.

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