Chocolate Orange Truffles

Name: Chocolate Orange Truffles
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 24 truffles
Ingredients: 8 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Zest of 1 orange; 2 tablespoons orange liqueur (optional); Cocoa powder for rolling

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love indulging in these Chocolate Orange Truffles! The combination of rich, velvety chocolate and the bright notes of fresh orange zest creates a unique flavor experience that’s simply irresistible. I’ve perfected this recipe over time to ensure every bite delivers a delightful burst of citrus alongside creamy chocolate. Ideal for gift-giving or just treating myself, these truffles are surprisingly easy to make, yet they feel luxurious. Trust me, once you try them, you'll find it hard to share!

Created by

Helena Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:58:09.533Z

When I first started experimenting with truffles, I knew I wanted to pair chocolate with something vibrant. That's when I decided to incorporate orange zest, and the result was a revelation! The way the citrus compliments the dark chocolate's richness is simply divine.

One key tip I discovered is to use high-quality chocolate and fresh oranges. This ensures that the flavor shines through, making the truffles irresistibly delicious. I also love rolling them in cocoa powder, which adds a lovely contrast to the sweetness!

        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

      

The Importance of Chocolate Quality

When making Chocolate Orange Truffles, the quality of the chocolate you choose plays a crucial role in the final taste. Using high-quality bittersweet chocolate enhances the richness and depth of flavor. Aim for chocolate with at least 60% cacao content, as this will provide the right balance of sweetness and bitterness. Avoid chocolate chips designed for baking, as they often contain stabilizers that can affect the melting process and yield a chunky texture, instead of a smooth ganache.

Don’t overlook the temperature when melting chocolate. Always melt it over low heat to prevent it from seizing. Stir continually until the chocolate and cream mixture is glossy and smooth. If the chocolate starts to clump or becomes grainy, it may have been overheated; in this case, you can try adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil to fix the texture before it cools.

Flavor Balance with Orange

The zest of the orange is essential to achieving the bright flavor in these truffles. Grate the orange zest using a microplane or fine grater, making sure to only remove the outer layer of the peel, which contains all the aromatic oils. Avoid the white pith, as it can add a bitter taste. Fresh zest provides a more vibrant flavor than dried orange zest, so always opt for fresh when possible.

If you're looking to adjust the orange flavor intensity, feel free to start with the zest of half an orange and taste the mixture before adding more. For a twist, you can substitute the orange with lemon or even a mix of citrus zests for a unique flavor profile while keeping the truffle’s foundational richness intact.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start.

Ingredients

8 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
Zest of 1 orange
2 tablespoons orange liqueur (optional)
Cocoa powder for rolling

Remember to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your truffles.

Melt the Chocolate

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chopped chocolate and heavy cream. Stir gently until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.

Add Orange Flavor

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the orange zest and orange liqueur (if using). Mix until well combined.

Chill the Mixture

Transfer the chocolate mixture to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 2 hours, or until firm.

Form the Truffles

Once the mixture is firm, use a small scoop or spoon to portion out the chocolate. Roll each portion between your hands to form smooth balls.

Coat the Truffles

Roll each truffle in cocoa powder until fully coated. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.

Serve the Truffles

Chill the truffles for another 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious chocolate orange truffles!

These truffles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try drizzling some melted chocolate over the truffles before they set.

Storing and Serving

After your Chocolate Orange Truffles have set, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to two weeks, maintaining their rich flavor and creamy texture. If you prefer a softer texture, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to achieve optimal creaminess.

These truffles make a delightful treat on their own, but they can also be dressed up for special occasions. Consider serving them on a platter with fresh orange slices or melted chocolate for dipping. For a stunning presentation, you could roll them in finely chopped nuts, grated chocolate, or even gold dust to impress your guests during celebrations or dinner parties.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, which is perfect for gatherings or gifting. Simply double or triple the ingredients while keeping an eye on chilling time. If you’re making larger batches, be aware that you might need more space in your refrigerator as the truffles need ample room to set evenly without sticking together.

When scaling up, consider using a larger bowl for mixing and a bigger tray for chilling the truffles. For even portioning, invest in a medium-sized cookie scoop; this ensures uniform truffles, which not only looks appealing but also provides an even melt-in-your-mouth experience for everyone enjoying them.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of bittersweet?

Yes, but keep in mind that the flavor will be sweeter and less intense.

→ How do I store leftover truffles?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I make these truffles vegan?

Absolutely! Use a dairy-free chocolate and coconut cream for the mixture.

→ What can I roll the truffles in besides cocoa powder?

You can use finely chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or powdered sugar for variety.