Juicy Orange Chocolate Truffles

This recipe for juicy orange chocolate Christmas truffles brings a festive twist to classic chocolate treats. These rich and creamy truffles combine the bright zest of orange with deep, velvety dark chocolate to make a perfect indulgence for holiday celebrations or thoughtful homemade gifts. Once you try these, they might just become your go to treat for the season.

I first made these during a quiet holiday at home, and now they are requested every year by friends and family because their flavor and texture are just so satisfying.

Ingredients

• Heavy cream: around one third cup plus two teaspoons contributes creaminess and smooth texture look for fresh cream with high fat content for best results
• Dark cooking chocolate: with 40 percent cocoa provides a deep chocolate flavor choose good quality chocolate for a glossy finish and rich taste
• Finely grated orange peel: one teaspoon brings a bright, zesty aroma and flavor use unwaxed organic oranges if possible to avoid bitterness
• Chocolate sprinkles: about one third of a cup add a fun and crunchy coating select fine sprinkles that will adhere well to the truffles

Instructions

Prepare the Equipment and Ingredients:

Line a small flat dish with nonstick baking paper for easy removal of truffles later. A Pyrex dish about seven by five inches works well. In a small bowl add the chocolate sprinkles for coating. Also prepare a baking tray with nonstick baking paper to place the coated truffles on.

Heat the Cream and Melt the Chocolate:

Combine the heavy cream and grated orange peel in a small saucepan. Slowly heat over low heat until it almost reaches boiling point but does not boil. Remove from heat and add the finely chopped chocolate. Stir gently until the chocolate has fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.

Chill the Chocolate Mixture:

Pour the chocolate mixture into the lined dish and spread it evenly. Place this dish in the refrigerator and chill for about two hours or until the mixture becomes firm enough to handle and shape.

Shape the Chocolate Balls:

Use a small ice cream scoop or a teaspoon to portion out about three level teaspoons of the chilled mixture. Roll each portion into small balls using your hands. If the mixture is too stiff, let it sit at room temperature for five to ten minutes to soften. Press the mixture gently to compact the balls. Keep an ice pack or frozen pack nearby to cool your hands and dry them well to prevent stickiness.

Coat in Chocolate Sprinkles:

Roll each truffle ball in the bowl of chocolate sprinkles, making sure they are fully coated. Transfer them carefully onto the prepared baking tray lined with baking paper.

Refrigerate and Store the Truffles:

Return the coated truffles to the refrigerator and chill for at least thirty minutes or until firm. Store the truffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. If you stack them, separate layers with baking paper to keep them from sticking.

The grated orange peel is my favorite part because it brightens up the dense chocolate with a fresh, citrus burst. The first time I shared these my sister said they reminded her of cozy winter evenings by the fire making them even more special in our family.

Storage Tips

Store these truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their texture and freshness. For longer storage, they freeze very well wrap them individually or in a single layer separated by parchment paper. When ready to eat thaw them slowly in the refrigerator to preserve their shape and smooth texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

The heavy cream can be swapped for full fat coconut milk if you want a dairy free option. Keep the quantity the same and mix well before heating for a creamy consistency. Dark cooking chocolate works well replaced with carob chips for a caffeine free choice though the flavor is slightly different. For stronger orange flavor orange extract or juice concentrate can replace fresh peel but avoid using too much to keep the balance just right.

Serving Suggestions

These truffles are perfect on their own but also pair beautifully with a cup of rich coffee or spiced tea. Present them in decorative gift boxes with festive ribbons for a thoughtful homemade holiday gift your friends and family will appreciate.

These orange chocolate truffles are easy to make ahead and make a special holiday treat. Keep them chilled and enjoy within a week or freeze for longer keeping layers separated with parchment paper.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What can I use as a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream?

Full-fat coconut milk works well as a substitute, maintaining richness while accommodating a dairy-free diet.

→ Can I replace dark cooking chocolate with another ingredient?

Yes, carob chips can be used as a caffeine-free alternative with a slightly different flavor profile.

→ How can I intensify the orange flavor in these truffles?

Try substituting orange peel with 1/4 teaspoon orange extract or 1 tablespoon orange juice concentrate for a stronger citrus note.

→ What is the best way to shape the truffles if the mixture is too firm?

Allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften before rolling into balls.

→ How should I store these chocolate truffles to keep them fresh?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, using non-stick paper between layers if stacking.