Chocolate Orange Truffles

Name: Chocolate Orange Truffles
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 24 truffles
Ingredients: 8 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; 1 cup cocoa powder or crushed nuts (for rolling)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Orange Truffles whenever I want to impress my friends or treat myself to something decadent. The combination of rich dark chocolate and refreshing orange zest creates a flavor that's nothing short of magical. It's a simple yet indulgent recipe that doesn't require any fancy tools, just a little bit of patience while the truffles chill. Trust me, once you try these little bites of heaven, you'll want to keep the recipe handy for special occasions and cozy nights in alike!

Created by

Diana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:52:14.395Z

When I first experimented with these truffles, I never expected them to become a favorite in my home. The surprise twist of citrus in the rich chocolate mixture adds a bright note that truly elevates the treat. I found that using high-quality chocolate made all the difference; it melted beautifully and created a luxurious texture.

One key tip I learned is to let the truffles set in the fridge for at least an hour after shaping. This step ensures that they hold their form and gives the flavors ample time to mingle, resulting in a richer taste. Trust me; the anticipation is worth it!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

Key Techniques for Perfect Truffles

When melting dark chocolate for truffles, it’s crucial to use a heat-proof bowl to prevent the chocolate from burning. Chop the chocolate into uniform small pieces to ensure it melts evenly. As you heat the cream, keep an eye on it; once you see small bubbles forming around the edges, it’s time to pour it over the chocolate. Allowing the chocolate to sit with the hot cream will help create a glossy ganache without needing extra heat.

Stirring is an important step in achieving the right texture. Avoid rushing this part; gently mix until the chocolate and cream are fully combined and the mixture is smooth. If your mixture looks grainy or separated, it may be due to overheating or incorrect stirring. If this happens, place the bowl over a low heat and add a teaspoon of warm cream while whisking vigorously to bring it back together.

Understanding Ingredients

The quality of chocolate you choose can significantly impact the flavor of your truffles. Dark chocolate with a cocoa percentage of 70% or higher offers a rich, deep flavor that pairs beautifully with the citrus notes from the orange zest. If you're looking for a milder option, semi-sweet chocolate can work, but expect a sweeter final product. Keep in mind that using lower quality chocolate may yield a less satisfying result.

Orange zest is not just for flavor; it also adds a fresh aroma that lifts the richness of the chocolate. When zesting, be careful to avoid the bitter white pith underneath. A microplane is ideal for this task, yielding fine zest that distributes evenly throughout your truffles. For a different twist, consider experimenting with other citrus zests, like lemon or lime, to create unique flavor combinations.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Orange Truffles can be made in advance, making them ideal for parties or special occasions. Once rolled and coated, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to three months. Just be sure to let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving to maintain their creamy texture.

Consider serving these truffles as part of a dessert platter alongside fresh fruit or other confections. They also pair wonderfully with coffee or dessert wines. For added flair, dust them with edible gold powder or toast nuts for coating, enhancing both presentation and flavor. If you're feeling creative, try adding a splash of your favorite liqueur to the ganache for an adult twist.

Ingredients

For the Truffles

8 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

For Coating

1 cup cocoa powder or crushed nuts (for rolling)

Make sure to use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor!

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces and place it in a heat-proof bowl. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and butter over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 2 minutes.

Combine the Ingredients

Stir the chocolate mixture until smooth, then add the orange zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until fully combined.

Chill the Mixture

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes, until the mixture is firm enough to scoop.

Shape the Truffles

Once chilled, use a small ice cream scoop or your hands to form small balls from the chocolate mixture. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Coat the Truffles

Roll the truffles in cocoa powder or crushed nuts until fully coated. Return them to the baking sheet and refrigerate for another 30 minutes to set.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the truffles are firm, serve them on a platter or in an airtight container. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Orange Truffles!

These truffles make an excellent gift for loved ones, too!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle some melted chocolate over the coated truffles before they set.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your truffles are too soft to shape after chilling, it may be a sign that the ganache wasn’t mixed sufficiently or the chocolate was of lower quality. To remedy this, chill the mixture for another 10-15 minutes or add more melted chocolate to help firm it up. Conversely, if they're too hard, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling.

Should you find imperfections in the rolling process, don’t worry! If the chocolate mixture is too sticky, lightly dust your hands with cocoa powder to assist in shaping. Additionally, if you want perfectly round truffles, consider using a melon baller or measuring spoon to ensure uniformity in size.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable. If you choose to double the batch for a larger gathering, simply maintain the same proportions in the ingredients. However, when melting chocolate in larger quantities, do consider dividing it into two smaller heat-proof bowls. This helps ensure even melting and prevents seizing, which can occur if the chocolate heats too quickly.

If you want to make smaller individual treats, you can use a mini-sized scoop to create bite-sized truffles. Just remember to adjust the chilling time accordingly to ensure they firm up appropriately before rolling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead?

Yes, but the flavor will be sweeter. Adjust the orange zest accordingly.

→ How long do these truffles last?

In the refrigerator, they can last up to a week, but they are best enjoyed fresh!

→ Can I add other flavors to the truffles?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different zests or flavored extracts.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Yes, you can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free chocolate.