Chocolate Orange Truffles

Name: Chocolate Orange Truffles
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 truffles
Ingredients: 8 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher); ½ cup heavy cream; 1 tsp orange zest; 2 tbsp orange juice; Cocoa powder for dusting; Optional: crushed nuts for rolling

Highlighted under: Sweet Craft

I absolutely adore making Chocolate Orange Truffles for special occasions or just a little treat to savor after a long day. The rich, velvety chocolate paired with the bright burst of orange zest is truly a match made in dessert heaven. Having been through several trials, I've honed the recipe to perfection, ensuring each bite is enveloped in a creamy chocolate shell that melts beautifully in your mouth. These truffles are not only indulgent but also surprisingly easy to whip up, making them an instant favorite in our household.

Created by

Daphne Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:40:14.075Z

Creating these Chocolate Orange Truffles has become one of my favorite weekend projects. I remember the first time I experimented with combining chocolate and citrus flavors; it was a revelation! The contrasting tastes complement each other so well, and I often find myself sneaking one or two while they’re cooling.

One tip I discovered along the way is to use high-quality chocolate for the ganache, as it makes a significant difference in texture and flavor. I always opt for dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content, which beautifully balances the sweetness of the orange. Trust me, once you've tasted them, you’ll appreciate the effort put into choosing the right ingredients!

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

      

The Role of Chocolate

The choice of chocolate is crucial for achieving the best flavor in your Chocolate Orange Truffles. Using a dark chocolate with 70% cocoa or higher gives a rich, intense backdrop that complements the citrus notes beautifully. It's essential to chop the chocolate into small, uniform pieces for even melting, as larger chunks may not fully dissolve in the hot cream. If you prefer a sweeter truffle, you might experiment with semi-sweet chocolate, but be mindful that it may overshadow the orange flavor.

When melting the chocolate, it's vital to pour the hot cream over it, allowing it to sit for a minute. This technique helps the chocolate to slightly soften before you stir, leading to a glossy ganache. If your ganache seems too thick after chilling, you can gently warm it in a microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, to achieve a smoother consistency before shaping.

Chilling and Coating Techniques

After preparing your ganache, chilling is an essential step not to be rushed. Aim for a full hour in the refrigerator; this ensures the mixture firms up enough to be shaped without melting in your hands. Depending on your refrigerator's temperature, you may find that a couple of extra minutes help. Use a melon baller or a scoop—this helps achieve uniform-sized truffles that will look beautiful when finished and makes rolling easier.

When it comes to coating, don’t be shy with the cocoa powder or crushed nuts. This is your chance to add another layer of flavor and texture to your truffles. If using nuts, lightly toasting them beforehand can enhance their flavor and provide a delightful crunch. Remember to coat the truffles just before serving; this will preserve their creamy texture and prevent any dampness that might come from resting on the coating for too long.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before getting started to streamline the process.

Ingredients for Chocolate Orange Truffles

8 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
½ cup heavy cream
1 tsp orange zest
2 tbsp orange juice
Cocoa powder for dusting
Optional: crushed nuts for rolling

Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare your workspace by clearing a clean surface for rolling the truffles.

Make the Ganache

Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces and place it in a bowl. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to boil. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth.

Add the orange zest and juice, mixing thoroughly.

Chill the Mixture

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the ganache for about 1 hour, or until firm enough to scoop.

Shape the Truffles

Using a melon baller or spoon, scoop small amounts of the ganache and roll them into walnut-sized balls. Dust your hands with cocoa powder to prevent sticking.

Coat the Truffles

Roll each truffle in cocoa powder or crushed nuts, ensuring they are evenly coated. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.

Serve and Enjoy

Once all truffles are coated, refrigerate them for another 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy these delightful treats with friends or family!

These truffles can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a few drops of orange extract to the ganache for a more pronounced citrus taste.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best things about these Chocolate Orange Truffles is that they can be made ahead of time. Once you've rolled and coated the truffles, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they'll keep for up to a week. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking, ensuring that each truffle retains its shape and coating.

For longer storage, you can freeze the truffles instead. Arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be kept frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply move them to the refrigerator to thaw overnight.

Flavor Variations

While the classic Chocolate Orange flavor combination is a crowd-pleaser, you can easily customize these truffles to suit your palette. Consider adding a few drops of pure peppermint extract for a refreshing twist, or incorporate finely chopped candied ginger to enhance the citrus profile. Each of these additions should be mixed into the ganache before chilling to allow the flavor to meld.

For a gourmet touch, you might dip your truffles in tempered chocolate instead of just dusting them. This layer adds a beautiful sheen and an additional texture, making your homemade treats look professionally crafted. Just ensure the truffles are well-chilled before dipping to prevent them from softening in the warm chocolate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but keep in mind that milk chocolate will result in a sweeter flavor and a different texture.

→ How long do these truffles last?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze the truffles?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are well wrapped to avoid freezer burn.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option, though the flavor will differ.