Description
Delight in these easy-to-make Chocolate Orange Truffles that combine rich semi-sweet chocolate with fresh orange zest and juice for a perfect balance of citrus and chocolate flavors. These no-bake treats are creamy, luscious, and coated with powdered sugar or other toppings, ideal for a sophisticated dessert or gift.
Ingredients
Scale
Truffle Base
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped (or chocolate chips)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp orange zest (freshly grated)
- 2 tbsp orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
Coating
- ¼ cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
- Optional toppings: cocoa powder, chopped nuts, or orange sprinkles
Instructions
- Chop Chocolate: Finely chop the semi-sweet chocolate and place it in a heatproof bowl to prepare for melting.
- Heat Cream and Butter: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and unsalted butter over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it starts to simmer but does not boil.
- Combine Hot Cream with Chocolate: Pour the hot cream mixture over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt completely.
- Mix Ganache and Add Flavorings: Stir the mixture gently until smooth and glossy. Then, add the freshly grated orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to incorporate all flavors.
- Chill Ganache: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until the ganache is firm enough to handle.
- Form Truffle Balls: Using a spoon or melon baller, scoop small portions of the chilled ganache and roll them between your hands to form smooth balls.
- Coat Truffles: Roll each truffle in powdered sugar or your preferred toppings such as cocoa powder, chopped nuts, or orange sprinkles to add texture and flavor.
- Set Truffles: Place the coated truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to ensure they firm up perfectly.
- Serve and Store: Once set, the truffles are ready to enjoy. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use high-quality semi-sweet chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
- Freshly grated orange zest and juice enhance the natural citrus flavor.
- Do not overheat the cream; it should just simmer to prevent scorching the chocolate.
- Chilling the ganache properly is essential for easy rolling and shaping.
- Truffles can be coated in a variety of toppings, so get creative with nuts, cocoa, or sprinkles.
- Store truffles in the fridge in an airtight container to keep them fresh up to a week.
