Chocolate Orange Truffles

Name: Chocolate Orange Truffles
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 30 truffles
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 100ml heavy cream; Zest of 1 orange; 2 tablespoons orange liqueur (optional); Cocoa powder or chopped nuts for rolling

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making Chocolate Orange Truffles, especially when I want to impress friends or treat myself. The combination of rich chocolate and zesty orange is simply divine and makes these truffles irresistible. I love preparing these delightful bites during special occasions or even just on a cozy evening at home. They’re surprisingly easy to make and require only a handful of ingredients, making them perfect for any level of cook. Trust me, once you try them, they'll become a favorite!

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:04:16.242Z

When I first experimented with Chocolate Orange Truffles, I didn't expect them to turn out as well as they did. I found that using high-quality dark chocolate truly makes a difference, enhancing the flavor. I also love adding a splash of orange liqueur for an extra kick. The first time I served them, everyone was asking for the recipe, and I realized these little treats had the potential to become a staple.

One tip I learned along the way is to chill the chocolate mixture before rolling it into balls. This makes it much easier to handle, and you get a smoother finish on each truffle. Plus, coating them in cocoa powder or chopped nuts adds a lovely texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling!

        Why You'll 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

      

Mastering the Chocolate Melting Process

Melting chocolate is a crucial step in making these truffles, as it lays the foundation for their creamy texture. I recommend using a high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for the best flavor. When heating the cream, keep the heat low and stir frequently to prevent scorching. Remove it from the heat just when tiny bubbles begin to appear around the edges—a simmering cream will help the chocolate melt evenly and create a smooth ganache.

If you find your chocolate isn't melting as smoothly as expected, consider the quality of your ingredients. Sometimes, subpar chocolate can lead to a grainy texture. Additionally, using a whisk instead of a spoon can help incorporate the cream and chocolate better, leading to a glossy finish. Just be cautious not to whisk too aggressively, or you might introduce air bubbles into the ganache.

Chilling and Shaping Truffles

Chilling the truffle mixture is key to making the shaping process easier. After about an hour in the refrigerator, the mixture should be firm enough to handle but still soft enough to mold. If you find that it's too hard to scoop, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes. I love using a small cookie scoop to ensure uniformity in size, which helps with even coating and presentation.

When rolling the truffles, you may notice that your hands can warm the chocolate mixture quickly. To minimize melting, you can lightly dust your palms with cocoa powder or keep them cool under running water before shaping. Aim for a consistent size of about 1 inch in diameter, which is perfect for popping in your mouth. If the mixture starts to get too soft while shaping, just pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes.

Flavor Variations and Storage Tips

While the classic chocolate-orange combination is divine, don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors! You can replace the orange zest with lemon or lavender for a unique twist. Adding spices like cinnamon or a hint of espresso powder can deepen the flavor profile. Just be sure to balance these additional ingredients carefully, as too much can overpower the chocolate.

Once your truffles are rolled and set, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. I find that they taste even better after a day as the flavors meld. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the truffles in a single layer in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper in between each layer. When ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator to keep that creamy texture intact.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

200g dark chocolate, chopped
100ml heavy cream
Zest of 1 orange
2 tablespoons orange liqueur (optional)
Cocoa powder or chopped nuts for rolling

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Chocolate Orange Truffles:

Melt the Chocolate

In a small saucepan, heat the cream over low heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.

Add Flavorings

Stir in the orange zest and orange liqueur, if using. Mix well to combine all the flavors.

Chill the Mixture

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 1 hour or until it firms up enough to handle.

Form the Truffles

Once the mixture is firm, use a small scoop or your hands to form small balls. Roll them quickly to keep them from melting.

Coat the Truffles

Roll the truffles in cocoa powder or chopped nuts until evenly coated. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.

Chill Again

Refrigerate the truffles for another 30 minutes to set completely before serving.

Pro Tips

For an even more intense orange flavor, consider adding a few drops of orange extract to the chocolate mixture.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Orange Truffles make a stunning addition to any dessert platter. To elevate their presentation, consider garnishing with chocolate shavings or a dusting of edible gold leaf. Pair them with a glass of dessert wine or a rich espresso for a delightful after-dinner treat. They’re also wonderful as party favors, beautifully packaged in small boxes tied with a ribbon.

If you’re serving these truffles at a gathering, consider providing a variety of coatings—some rolled in cocoa powder, others in chopped nuts or even coconut flakes. This not only adds visual interest but also gives each guest different options to satisfy their taste preferences. Sometimes, I’ll add a tiny piece of candied orange peel on top of each truffle for an extra touch!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your truffles are turning out too soft after refrigeration, it’s likely that the mixture was not chilled long enough initially, or there may have been too much cream used. To remedy this, simply place them back in the refrigerator for another 15 to 30 minutes until they achieve the right consistency. Alternatively, you can mix in a small amount of melted chocolate to help firm them up.

For those wanting to avoid the mess of rolling, you can also consider making these as chocolate orange bark. Spread the ganache onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, sprinkle with your choice of toppings—like crushed nuts or sea salt—and chill until set. Then break into pieces for an easy and elegant treat. This can also be a fun project with kids!

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 long can I store the truffles?

The truffles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

→ Can I make these truffles vegan?

Absolutely! Use vegan dark chocolate and substitute coconut cream for heavy cream.

→ What should I do if the truffle mixture is too soft?

If the mixture is too soft to handle, chill it a bit longer until it firms up enough to roll into balls.