Chocolate Orange Truffles

Name: Chocolate Orange Truffles
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 truffles
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), chopped; 100ml heavy cream; Zest of 1 large orange; 2 tablespoons orange juice; Cocoa powder for dusting; Pinch of salt; Optional: Sea salt for finishing

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Chocolate Orange Truffles, especially during special occasions or when I'm in need of a little sweet indulgence. The combination of rich, dark chocolate and zesty orange creates a flavor experience that’s truly unforgettable. Preparing these truffles is straightforward, allowing the natural sweetness of the oranges to shine through. Plus, they make for an impressive treat to share with friends and family, or to simply enjoy for myself after a long day. Trust me, once you try these truffles, they'll become a new favorite!

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:40:14.567Z

When I first created these Chocolate Orange Truffles, I was looking for a balance between rich chocolate and a refreshing citrus note. Experimenting with various orange peels, I found that using fresh zest really heightens the flavor, making each bite bursts with vibrancy. One helpful trick I've learned is to let the truffles sit in the fridge for a bit after rolling; this step firms them up nicely and enhances the texture.

Additionally, dipping them in melted dark chocolate give them a glossy finish that not only looks beautiful but also adds an extra layer of richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, try sprinkling a bit of sea salt on top right after dipping - it elevates the flavors wonderfully!

        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

      

Choosing the Right Chocolate

Selecting high-quality dark chocolate is crucial for the best flavor in Chocolate Orange Truffles. Aim for chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content, as this level provides a rich, complex taste that balances beautifully with the zesty orange. Brands like Valrhona or Guittard are excellent choices. If you need to use a lower percentage of cocoa, you may need to adjust the sugar in the recipe, as the sweetness of lower cocoa chocolate can alter the final taste profile.

When melting chocolate, ensure that your bowl is dry and free of moisture to prevent seizing. I recommend using a heatproof glass or stainless steel bowl over a pot of gently simmering water, maintaining the temperature low to avoid any burnt flavor. The chocolate should melt slowly until glossy and smooth, signaling it's ready to mix with the cream.

The Role of Orange in the Truffles

The combination of fresh orange zest and juice adds a vibrant note to the rich chocolate. Always opt for organic oranges when possible, as they are less likely to have pesticide residue on the rind. Grating the zest finely helps release essential oils, enhancing the overall flavor of the truffles. If you're in a pinch, you can use bottled orange juice, but fresh juice will have a superior flavor profile that complements the chocolate wonderfully.

Be mindful of the balance between the zest and juice; too much juice could make the mixture too runny. Stick to the recommended amount unless you prefer a stronger orange flavor, then increase the zest gradually. Tasting the mixture before chilling can help you determine if it needs more brightness.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Chocolate Orange Truffles can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient treat for gatherings. After forming the truffles, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For maximum freshness, roll them in cocoa powder right before serving, as the powder can absorb moisture over time, affecting the texture.

If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing the truffles. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last in the freezer for about three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply transfer to the fridge to thaw for a couple of hours before serving.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Ingredients for Chocolate Orange Truffles

200g dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), chopped
100ml heavy cream
Zest of 1 large orange
2 tablespoons orange juice
Cocoa powder for dusting
Pinch of salt
Optional: Sea salt for finishing

With your ingredients ready, let's move on to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious truffles:

Prepare the Chocolate Mixture

In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and heavy cream. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) and stir until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Add Orange Flavor

Stir in the orange zest, orange juice, and a pinch of salt to the chocolate mixture. Mix until well combined. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 20 minutes, or until the mixture is firm enough to handle.

Form the Truffles

Once chilled, use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) from the chocolate mixture. Roll each ball gently in your hands to smooth it out.

Coat with Cocoa Powder

Roll the prepared truffles in cocoa powder until well coated. Shake off any excess cocoa and place the truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Finalize and Serve

If desired, sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top of each truffle for an extra touch. Refrigerate the truffles until ready to serve. Enjoy!

Your Chocolate Orange Truffles are now ready to impress!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some finely chopped candied orange peel. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate for varied richness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chocolate seizes during melting, meaning it turns crumbly or thick, it’s usually an indication of moisture getting in. To rescue it, add a small amount of cream or coconut oil while stirring until it becomes smooth again. Remember, patience is key when melting chocolate; a gentle heat will produce better results than a too-hot flame.

If your truffles are too soft after chilling, they may need more time in the fridge, or you may need to adjust the ratio of chocolate to cream. Adding a bit more melted chocolate to the mixture can help firm them up. Also, ensure that your heavy cream is not too warm when you mix it with the chocolate.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, consider arranging the truffles in a decorative box or on a platter dusted with additional cocoa powder or even edible gold flakes. This small touch can elevate the visual appeal, making them perfect for gifting. Pairing them with a glass of dessert wine, such as a rich port, enhances the experience of enjoying these delightful treats.

For a twist, you can experiment with additional flavorings in the truffles, such as a splash of Grand Marnier or adding a little espresso powder for a mocha-orange variation. Just remember to adjust the amounts of orange juice and zest to keep the balance intact, ensuring the chocolate flavor remains the star of the truffle.

Variations and Customization

Feel free to customize your truffles by rolling them in alternative coatings. Finely chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even crushed freeze-dried oranges can add both texture and additional flavor. Just make sure that whatever coating you choose complements the rich chocolate and zesty orange without overpowering it.

If you're looking for a different citrus variation, lemon or lime can be substituted for the orange. This will give your truffles a refreshing twist, but keep the ratios the same to maintain that lovely creamy texture. Just be aware that lemon and lime can be tart, so you might want to start with a smaller amount and adjust to your taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but the truffles will be sweeter and less intense in flavor.

→ How should I store these truffles?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream?

For a lighter alternative, you can use coconut cream or a non-dairy cream, though it may slightly change the texture.

→ What other flavors can I add?

Feel free to experiment with different citrus zests or even liqueurs like Grand Marnier for a unique twist!