Introduction

These Juicy Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles combine rich dark chocolate with bright citrus notes, creating a festive treat that’s both elegant and indulgent. Perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting, these truffles are surprisingly simple to make at home.

The image shows a white bowl filled with round chocolate truffles that have a rough texture, suggesting a coating of cocoa or chocolate crumbs. Around the bowl, there are two square pieces of dark chocolate and two bright orange halves with visible juicy segments. To the top right, a small white bowl contains a mix of what looks like nuts or seeds. Two shiny metal spoons with curved handles lie beside the bowl on a light beige cloth napkin. The backdrop is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

90 ml (around 1/3 cup plus 2 teaspoons) heavy cream
200 g (7 oz) dark cooking chocolate (40% cocoa), finely chopped
1 teaspoon finely grated orange peel
1/3 cup chocolate sprinkles

Instructions

Step 1: Line a small, flat dish (about 13 x 18 cm or 7 x 5 inches) with non-stick baking paper. Place the chocolate sprinkles in a small bowl and set aside. Also, line a baking tray with non-stick baking paper for later use.
Step 2: In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream and grated orange peel. Heat gently over low heat until the cream is just below boiling point, then remove from heat. Add the chopped chocolate and stir until fully melted and smooth.
Step 3: Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared dish, smoothing the surface evenly. Chill in the refrigerator for about 2 hours, or until firm enough to handle.
Step 4: Use a small ice cream scoop or teaspoon to scoop about 3 teaspoons of the chilled chocolate mixture. Roll each scoop into a compact ball. If the chocolate is too hard, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before rolling. Keep your hands cool and dry while shaping the truffles.
Step 5: Roll each chocolate ball in the bowl of chocolate sprinkles until evenly coated. Place the coated truffles on the lined baking tray.
Step 6: Refrigerate the truffles on the tray for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh orange zest for the brightest flavor, and avoid the white pith as it can be bitter.
For a richer chocolate taste, choose chocolate with a higher cocoa percentage.
Try rolling the truffles in chopped nuts or cocoa powder as an alternative coating.
Keep your hands cool by briefly chilling them under cold water or using ice packs while shaping the truffles.

Storage

Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To prevent sticking, separate layers with non-stick baking paper. Before serving, allow truffles to sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. Reheating is not recommended as it can affect texture.

How to Serve

A white plate filled with round chocolate truffles covered in dark brown chocolate sprinkles, arranged tightly in the center, with some sprinkles scattered lightly on the plate; around the edge of the plate are several thick orange slices with bright orange flesh and pale orange rinds, set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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 the texture and flavor will be slightly different. Adjust sweetness accordingly if desired.

How do I prevent my truffles from melting during rolling?

Keep your hands cool by chilling them briefly in cold water or using an ice pack nearby. Roll quickly and dry your hands with paper towels as needed to avoid melting the chocolate mixture.