Juicy Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles Recipe

Introduction

These Juicy Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles combine rich dark chocolate with a bright hint of fresh orange zest for a festive treat. Smooth, creamy ganache centers are rolled in chocolate sprinkles, making them perfect for holiday gifting or indulging yourself.

Ingredients

• 7 oz dark chocolate (70% cacao, chopped)
• 7 tbsp heavy cream (cold)
• 1/3 cup chocolate sprinkles
• 1 tsp orange zest (freshly grated)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Finely chop the dark chocolate and grate the orange zest, then set them aside. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and place chocolate sprinkles in a shallow bowl. In a small saucepan, combine the cold heavy cream and orange zest. Heat gently over medium heat until small bubbles just begin to form around the edges, but do not let it boil.
2. Step 2: Remove the saucepan from heat as soon as it simmers. Add the chopped chocolate to the hot cream and let sit undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to melt. Then, stir gently from the center outward until smooth and uniform, forming a silky ganache.
3. Step 3: Pour the ganache into a shallow dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm but still pliable enough to scoop and roll.
4. Step 4: Use a spoon or mini scoop to portion the ganache, then quickly roll each into smooth balls between your palms. Immediately coat each truffle in chocolate sprinkles, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Step 5: Place coated truffles on the lined baking tray and refrigerate for another 30 minutes to fully set. Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Tips & Variations

• Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor and smooth texture.
• If you prefer a stronger orange flavor, add a few drops of orange extract to the cream while heating.
• Try rolling the truffles in cocoa powder, crushed nuts, or powdered sugar instead of sprinkles for variety.
• Allow ganache to soften slightly at room temperature before rolling if too firm.

Storage

Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To serve, let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly and enhance flavor. These truffles can also be frozen for up to three months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate for a sweeter, creamier truffle, but be aware the texture and flavor will be lighter and less intense.

How do I prevent the ganache from seizing or becoming grainy?

Ensure the cream is hot enough to melt the chocolate and stir gently without rushing. Avoid overheating or boiling the cream, and stir from the center outward to help the chocolate melt evenly.

Juicy Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles Recipe

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4.7 from 300 reviews

Delight in these Juicy Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles, a luxurious blend of rich dark chocolate enhanced with a hint of fresh orange zest. These creamy, luscious truffles are coated in chocolate sprinkles, making them a festive and elegant treat perfect for holiday celebrations or gifting.

• Author: zara
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
• Yield: About 20 truffles 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: European

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Truffle Ingredients

• 7 oz dark chocolate (Lindt 70% cacao, chopped)
• 7 tbsp heavy cream (cold)
• 1 tsp orange zest (freshly grated)
• 1/3 cup chocolate sprinkles

Instructions

1. Prepare Mis-en-Place and Infuse Cream: Finely chop the dark chocolate and grate the orange zest, setting them aside. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and place chocolate sprinkles in a shallow bowl. In a small saucepan, combine cold heavy cream with the orange zest and gently heat over medium until it just begins to simmer around the edges, taking care not to let it boil.
2. Create the Ganache: Remove the saucepan from heat immediately once simmering starts. Add chopped dark chocolate to the hot cream and let it sit for 2-3 minutes to melt. Then, gently stir from the center outward until smooth and fully combined, forming a rich ganache.
3. Chill the Ganache: Pour the ganache into a shallow dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm but still pliable enough to scoop and roll.
4. Form and Coat Truffles: Using a small spoon or mini ice cream scoop, portion the chilled ganache and roll quickly between palms into uniform balls. Immediately toss each ball in chocolate sprinkles, pressing gently to ensure full coating.
5. Final Chill and Storage: Place coated truffles on the parchment-lined tray and chill for an additional 30 minutes to set. Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Notes

• Use high-quality dark chocolate like Lindt 70% cacao for the best flavor and texture.
• Ensure the cream is just simmering, not boiling, to avoid burning and maintain a smooth ganache.
• If ganache is too soft after chilling, extend refrigeration time to firm up before rolling.
• Roll truffles quickly to prevent melting from the warmth of your hands.
• Store truffles refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one week.

Keywords: orange chocolate truffles, Christmas truffles, dark chocolate truffles, holiday dessert, ganache truffles, chocolate orange dessert