Chocolate Star Anise Truffles

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Bring cream to a boil with star anise in a small heavy saucepan, then remove from heat and let stand 15 minutes.

   Step 2

   Finely grind bittersweet chocolate in a food processor and transfer to a bowl.

   Step 3

   Return cream to a simmer, then remove from heat and stir in Cognac. Sour cream mixture through a fine sieve onto chocolate and whisk until chocolate is melted and ganache is smooth. Pour ganache into an 8- by 4-inch loaf pan lined with plastic wrap, smoothing top, and chill, uncovered, until firm, about 4 hours.

   Step 4

   Loosen edges of ganache with a sharp small knife and invert onto a cutting surface. Remove plastic wrap and cut ganache into 40 squares.

   Step 5

   Dust your palms with cocoa and roll each piece of ganache between them to form a ball. Drop ball into cocoa bowl and turn to cover completely. Lift truffle with a fork and transfer to a plate. Chill truffles, covered, until ready to serve.