Vegan Dark Chocolate Peppermint Truffles

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the coconut milk over a medium-low flame until it’s just beginning to simmer around the edges. Turn off the heat, and add the finely chopped chocolate. Stir to combine. There should be enough residual heat to fully melt the chocolate as you stir, but if you need to, turn the flame back on very low for just a minute or so to get everything smooth, creamy, and fully combined—but it shouldn’t become hot to the touch.
2. Once the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy, transfer to a medium bowl, and add the peppermint extract and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine, then set uncovered in the fridge for 2 to 3 hours, until just fully solidified, but still pliable. (There should be no puddle of melted chocolate in the center, as Minimalist Baker notes.)
3. Grab a tablespoon (or a tablespoon-sized scoop). Scoop out a heaping tablespoon of the chocolate, and use your hands to gently roll it into a round ball. Set aside on a parchment-lined dish. Repeat until you’ve scooped and shaped all of the balls. You should get about 16 truffles.
4. If you’d like to decorate them, set the cocoa powder on a large plate, and roll the truffles around in it until they’re coated. Press a small pinch of the crushed peppermint candy into the top of each one.
5. Enjoy truffles immediately, or store covered in the fridge for up to 1 week. To serve, let them come to room temperature for maximum smooth creaminess.