Chocolate Orange Truffles Recipe
These decadent Chocolate Orange Truffles combine the rich intensity of dark chocolate with a bright burst of fresh orange zest and extract. Coated in a sweet granulated sugar shell, these no-bake treats deliver a perfectly balanced flavor and a smooth, creamy texture that melts in your mouth. Ideal for gifting or enjoying as a luxurious homemade dessert.
- Author: Marco
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 minute
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: About 20 truffles 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Truffle Mixture
- ⅔ cup + 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest (plus extra for optional garnish)
- 1½ teaspoons pure orange extract
- 12 ounces dark chocolate chips
Coating
- ½ cup granulated sugar (for rolling the truffles)
- Heat the Cream: Add the heavy cream to a medium-sized microwave-safe bowl and heat it in the microwave for 1 minute until hot but not boiling.
- Add Orange Flavor: Whisk in the fresh orange zest and pure orange extract into the heated cream to infuse the citrus aroma and flavor.
- Melt the Chocolate: Add the dark chocolate chips to the warm cream mixture, stirring until the chocolate is completely melted and smoothly incorporated. If necessary, return the bowl to the microwave and heat in 15-second increments to help melt the chocolate fully.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the mixture firms enough to be shaped by hand.
- Scoop the Truffles: Using a 1-tablespoon cookie scoop or spoon, portion the chilled chocolate mixture into individual balls.
- Coat in Sugar: Roll each truffle thoroughly in granulated sugar to create a sweet, crunchy exterior coating.
- Set and Chill: Place the sugar-coated truffles on a lined baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve to maintain their shape and texture.
Notes
- For best results, use high-quality dark chocolate chips with at least 60% cocoa content for a rich flavor.
- Adjust the orange zest and extract to taste if you prefer a more or less intense citrus flavor.
- Optional garnish: sprinkle extra fresh orange zest on the truffles before serving for a bright finish.
- Store truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Allow truffles to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly for the best texture.
Keywords: Chocolate Orange Truffles, no-bake truffles, orange zest dessert, dark chocolate truffles, easy homemade truffles, holiday treats