For the Peppermint Chocolate Truffles:
Heat the Cream:
In a small saucepan over low heat, heat the cream just until it comes to a boil. Immediately remove the cream from the heat and add the chopped chocolate. Let the mixture sit, untouched, for two minutes, then whisk until smooth.
Incorporate the Butter and Peppermint:
Stir in the butter and peppermint extract, and whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and shiny.
Chill the Mixture:
Pour the mixture into a medium bowl and allow it to cool to room temperature. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours, or until the mixture is firm enough to scoop.
For the Chocolate Coating:
Melt the Chocolate:
Fill a medium pot one-third full with water and bring it to a low simmer over medium heat. Place a heatproof bowl on top of the pan, ensuring it fits snugly but doesn’t touch the water. Reduce the heat to low and add two-thirds of the chopped chocolate into the bowl. Stir occasionally with a silicone spatula until completely melted. Remove the pan from the heat, keeping the bowl on top, and stir in the reserved chocolate until smooth.
Prepare for Dipping:
Pour the melted chocolate into a liquid measuring cup right before dipping the truffles.
Assembly:
Prepare Baking Sheets:
Before starting, ensure there is enough room in your refrigerator for both baking sheets. The truffles need to chill before being dipped in the chocolate coating. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside.
Shape the Truffles:
Measure 2 teaspoons of the truffle filling and quickly roll it between your hands to form a ball. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with all the truffle mixture. Refrigerate the rolled truffles for at least 15 minutes before dipping them in chocolate.
Dip the Truffles:
Remove the chilled truffles from the refrigerator and dip each one into the melted chocolate using a small spoon or fork. Place the dipped truffles back on the baking sheets and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
Set the Truffles:
Allow the truffles to sit at room temperature until the chocolate coating is set, about 1 hour.