Dark Chocolate Orange Truffles

Name: Dark Chocolate Orange Truffles
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 truffles
Ingredients: 8 oz (225g) dark chocolate, chopped; 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream; Zest of 1 orange; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Cocoa powder; Chopped nuts (optional); Melted chocolate (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making these Dark Chocolate Orange Truffles, especially when I'm craving a sweet treat that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. The combination of rich dark chocolate and zesty orange always excites my taste buds, and making them is a delightful activity that the whole family can join in on. With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, I create a delicious little morsel that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying all by myself. These truffles are truly a special treat that never fails to impress!

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:25:08.991Z

I remember the first time I made these truffles for a gathering; everyone was surprised at how rich and flavorful they were. The secret lies in using high-quality dark chocolate and freshly grated orange zest, which intensifies the flavors beautifully. I learned that letting the mixture chill thoroughly is crucial for that perfect texture, allowing for easy rolling into glossy rounds.

Another tip I've discovered is to roll the truffles in cocoa powder, crushed nuts, or even a drizzle of milk chocolate for presentation. It adds an extra layer of flavor and makes them visually appealing. Each bite delivers a punch of richness combined with a refreshing citrus note, making these truffles a memorable dessert experience!

        Why You Will 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

      

Mastering the Chocolate Melting Process

Melting chocolate can be tricky if you don't monitor it closely. Using a double boiler allows for gentle heat that prevents scorching, which is essential for achieving that silky smooth texture. If you opt for the microwave, heat in 15-20 second increments, stirring in between, until the chocolate is just melted. Look for a glossy finish to ensure it’s perfectly melted without being burned.

Remember, the quality of chocolate matters greatly in this recipe. A good quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa) will not only enhance the flavor but also ensure a smoother texture. Avoid chocolate chips if possible, as they often contain stabilizers that prevent them from melting smoothly.

Handling Chocolate Mixture and Chilling

After combining the chocolate with the heavy cream, it’s essential to incorporate the orange zest and vanilla while the mixture is still warm. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If the mixture cools too much, it becomes harder to blend evenly. Ensure everything is combined until you can no longer see the cream, creating a rich, homogenous mixture that embodies the flavors.

Chilling the mixture is a crucial step. By refrigerating it for about an hour, you allow it to firm up sufficiently, making the scooping and rolling easier. If after an hour it’s still too soft to handle, let it chill a bit longer; timing may vary depending on your fridge's temperature.

Ingredients

For the Truffles

8 oz (225g) dark chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
Zest of 1 orange
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Coating

Cocoa powder
Chopped nuts (optional)
Melted chocolate (optional)

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and heavy cream. Heat over a double boiler or microwave in short bursts until melted and smooth, stirring frequently.

Add Flavorings

Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the grated orange zest and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Chill the Mixture

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 1 hour, or until the mixture is firm enough to scoop.

Form the Truffles

Using a teaspoon or melon baller, scoop out the chilled chocolate mixture and roll between your palms to form small balls.

Coat the Truffles

Roll the truffles in cocoa powder, chopped nuts, or drizzle with melted chocolate, if desired.

Serve and Enjoy

Place the finished truffles in a decorative box or on a serving plate. Enjoy as a delightful treat!

Pro Tips

For an extra zesty kick, consider adding a few drops of orange essential oil to the chocolate mixture. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference.

Coating Variations

While rolling the truffles in cocoa powder is traditional, consider experimenting with different coatings such as crushed nuts or shredded coconut for added texture and flavor. Finely ground pistachios or almonds can provide a beautiful contrast to the dark chocolate and an intriguing crunch.

If you're feeling adventurous, try drizzling your truffles with white chocolate. This not only enhances the flavor profile but also offers a visually stunning presentation. Just ensure the drizzled chocolate has cooled slightly before adding to avoid melting the truffles.

Storage Tips

These truffles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To prevent them from sticking together, consider placing a layer of parchment paper between each layer of truffles. If you’d like to keep them longer, freezing is an excellent option; they can last up to three months when stored properly.

When you're ready to serve the frozen truffles, let them thaw in the refrigerator for a couple of hours prior to enjoying. This will help restore some of their creamy texture and bring back the flavors as they become soft enough to melt in your mouth.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but keep in mind that the flavor will be sweeter and less intense.

→ How should I store the truffles?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

→ Can I freeze the truffles?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure they are in a sealed container.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free version, although the texture may vary slightly.