SINFUL CHOCOLATE BALLS (Dated Nov, 26, 2009)

Well we all know what is coming next, and that would be Christmas. I love making goodies for my friends, family, and the people I work for. Over the years I have built up a large repertoire of gift giving recipes for the Holidays. These particular gems are one of the best of all of them. Well worth the effort!

1 cup plus 2 tablespoons whipping cream
3/4 cup unsalted butter
20 (1-oz.) squares semisweet chocolate
3/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons Grand Marnier or other orange-flavored liqueur
1 1/2 tablespoons grated orange rind
1/2 cup sifted powdered sugar
6 (4-oz.) packages sweet baking chocolate

Combine whipping cream and butter in a large heavy saucepan; bring to boil over medium heat. Remove from heat, and add semi-sweet chocolate, stirring until chocolate melts and mixture is smooth. Stir in sour cream, Grand Marnier, and orange rind. Pour mixture into a lightly greased 13X9-inch pan. Cover and chill at least 8 hours.

Divide mixture into 3 equal portions. Work with 1 portion of mixture at a time, storing remainder in refrigerator. Working quickly, drop chocolate mixture by heaping teaspoonfuls onto wax paper-lined cookie sheets; freeze 10 minutes.

Working with 1 portion at a time, dip pieces into powdered sugar, and roll into 1-inch balls. Return balls to lined cookie sheets, and freeze 1 hour or until firm.
Place sweet baking chocolate in top of a double boiler; bring water to a boil. Reduce heat to low; cook until chocolate melts, stirring often.

Working with 1 portion at a time, place each ball on a on a candy dipper, or use a wooden pick and hold over double boiler. Quickly spoon melted chocolate over each ball, allowing excess to drip back into double boiler. Return balls to lined cookie sheets; chill until firm. Place balls in aluminum foil candy cups. Store in an airtight container in refrigerator.
Yield: 10 dozen.

"It has been shown as proof positive that carefully prepared chocolate is as healthful a food as it is pleasant; that it is nourishing and easily digested...that it is above all helpful to people who must do a great deal of mental work."-Anthelme Brillat-Savarin