A truffle is an edible fungus that grows underground near the roots of oak trees, especially in France and Italy. Although unattractive, it is much loved for its fragrance and delicate earthy flavor. There are several varieties, but the black truffle is the most prized. Truffles must be hunted by dogs or pigs that are trained to sniff them out. Because truffles cannot be cultivated and the harvesting process is time consuming, it is one of the world's most expensive foods.

Chocolate truffles, so named because of their similarity in appearance to truffles, are a rich, elegant uncooked French candy. They are made of chocolate, butter, cream and sugar. They are flavored with liqueur, coffee, nuts or fruit. The mixture is formed into balls and rolled in unsweetened cocoa, powdered sugar or chopped nuts.