Chocolate Orange Truffles

Name: Chocolate Orange Truffles
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 truffles
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa); 100ml heavy cream; Zest of 1 orange; 1 tablespoon orange liqueur (optional); Cocoa powder for dusting

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Orange Truffles for special occasions and indulging myself with their rich, velvety texture. Each bite offers a delightful fusion of dark chocolate and zesty orange, which is a combination that always surprises and delights my friends and family. These truffles are surprisingly easy to whip up, requiring just a handful of ingredients. Whenever I'm in need of a quick yet impressive dessert, I turn to this recipe, which never fails to impress. Let’s dive right in and make these irresistible treats!

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:01:13.875Z

When I first tried my hand at making Chocolate Orange Truffles, I was surprised by the simplicity of the process. Melting good-quality dark chocolate combined with fresh orange zest creates an explosion of flavor that perfectly balances sweetness and citrusy brightness. After experimenting with different chocolate types, I found that using at least 70% cocoa content elevates the flavor profile significantly.

One of my tips for achieving the perfect texture is to let the truffles chill in the refrigerator for a bit before forming them into balls. This makes the chocolate mixture easier to handle and prevents sticky fingers when rolling them in cocoa powder. Trust me, following this small detail ensures that these truffles are not only delicious but also easy to prepare!

        Why You'll 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

      

Understanding the Chocolate

The type of chocolate you choose is crucial for creating rich and flavorful truffles. I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for a deep, complex flavor. Look for chocolate that has a smooth texture and minimal additives. This ensures that your truffles have that rich chocolate taste while still allowing the orange zest to shine through.

If you're sensitive to bitter flavors, you can opt for a semi-sweet chocolate instead. However, be aware that this will alter the overall taste profile of the truffles. The cream-to-chocolate ratio is also important as it affects the creaminess of the final product. For a silkier texture, you may increase the heavy cream slightly while adjusting other ingredients accordingly.

The Role of Orange Zest

In this recipe, the zest of the orange is what truly elevates these truffles, infusing them with a fresh and vibrant flavor. Be sure to use a microplane or zester to extract the fine, fragrant outer skin without including the bitter white pith. This will enhance the truffles' aromatic qualities and pair beautifully with the dark chocolate.

For an alternative, consider using zest from other citrus fruits like lemon or tangerine. Each will impart a unique twist to your truffles without compromising their essence. If you're looking for a more intense orange flavor, try increasing the amount of zest or incorporating a few drops of orange extract for an added citrus punch.

Ingredients

For the Truffles

200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa)
100ml heavy cream
Zest of 1 orange
1 tablespoon orange liqueur (optional)
Cocoa powder for dusting

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, combine the dark chocolate and heavy cream. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler) and stir gently until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.

Add Orange Zest and Liqueur

Remove the bowl from heat and mix in the orange zest and orange liqueur if using. Stir until combined.

Chill the Mixture

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for approximately 15 minutes or until the mixture is firm enough to handle.

Form the Truffles

Once chilled, use a small scoop or your hands to form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.

Dust with Cocoa Powder

Roll each truffle in cocoa powder to coat them evenly. Place on a parchment-lined tray.

Chill Again

Refrigerate the truffles for at least 10 minutes before serving to firm them up further.

Serve your truffles chilled and enjoy the burst of flavors!

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, try rolling some of the truffles in finely chopped nuts or desiccated coconut instead of cocoa powder.

Chilling Techniques

Chilling the mixture before forming the truffles is a crucial step for achieving the right consistency. If you find the mixture too soft to handle after the initial chilling, simply place it back in the refrigerator for an additional 5–10 minutes. The goal is to have a malleable yet firm texture, which makes rolling them into perfect spheres easier.

After rolling the truffles in cocoa powder, I recommend giving them a second chill for a firmer bite. This simple technique enhances the mouthfeel and allows the truffles to maintain their shape better when served. If you prefer a softer truffle, you can skip this step, but be cautious while handling them, as they may become too delicate.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Orange Truffles make for an elegant presentation when served on a decorative platter or in small paper cups. For an extra special touch, consider garnishing them with a sprinkle of sea salt or drizzling with melted chocolate. You could also add candied orange peels for a beautiful visual contrast and added texture.

When storing, keep the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. Remember to allow them to thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving, which will help maintain their creamy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but be aware that it will alter the flavor and sweetness of the truffles.

→ How long can I store these truffles?

You can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I make these truffles vegan?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and ensure the chocolate is dairy-free.

→ What can I use instead of orange liqueur?

You can omit it entirely or replace it with a splash of orange juice for additional flavor.