Name: Chocolate Orange Christmas Truffles Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate (at least 60% cacao), finely chopped; 120ml heavy cream; 30g unsalted butter; Zest of 1 fresh orange; 1-2 tbsp orange liqueur (optional, e.g., Grand Marnier or Cointreau); Cocoa powder (for rolling); Chopped nuts (such as pistachios, hazelnuts, or almonds); Powdered sugar

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Introduction

These Chocolate Orange Christmas Truffles combine rich dark chocolate with bright citrus notes for a festive treat. They’re smooth, creamy, and coated in cocoa, nuts, or powdered sugar for the perfect bite-sized indulgence this holiday season.

The image shows a close-up of different chocolate truffles arranged closely together on a textured beige cloth placed on a white marbled surface. There are three types of truffles: one type is coated in dark chocolate and sprinkled with small orange zest pieces, some are covered in fine chocolate crumbs with orange zest on top, and others are decorated with a smooth drizzle of dark chocolate lines. In the background, there are bright orange slices adding a fresh contrast to the dark brown of the truffles. The lighting is warm, highlighting the rich textures and vibrant colors of the chocolate and orange slices. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

200g dark chocolate (at least 60% cacao), finely chopped
120ml heavy cream
30g unsalted butter
Zest of 1 fresh orange
1-2 tbsp orange liqueur (optional, e.g., Grand Marnier or Cointreau)
Cocoa powder (for rolling)
Chopped nuts (such as pistachios, hazelnuts, or almonds)
Powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Finely chop the dark chocolate and place it in a heatproof bowl.
Step 2: Heat the heavy cream and unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until bubbles form around the edges.
Step 3: Immediately pour the hot cream mixture over the chocolate and let sit for a couple of minutes to melt.
Step 4: Stir gently until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Step 5: Fold in the fresh orange zest and orange liqueur, mixing thoroughly.
Step 6: Cover the ganache with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm enough to scoop and shape.
Step 7: Using a small melon baller or teaspoon, scoop portions of the ganache and quickly roll each between your palms to form smooth balls.
Step 8: Roll the truffles in your choice of cocoa powder, chopped nuts, or powdered sugar.
Step 9: Place the coated truffles on parchment paper and refrigerate again until firm.

Tips & Variations

For a non-alcoholic version, omit the orange liqueur and add a teaspoon of fresh orange juice or extract for flavor.
Use a combination of coatings to add variety—try half in nuts and half in cocoa powder for different textures.
Work quickly when shaping the truffles to prevent the ganache from melting and becoming sticky.

Storage

Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Allow them to come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

The image shows a pile of round chocolate truffles with three different coatings, placed on a beige textured fabric over a white marbled surface. The first type of truffle has a dark, crumbly texture with small orange zest bits on top and in the coating. The second type is covered in smooth dark chocolate with drizzled lines of chocolate on top along with small orange zest bits. The third type is coated in a crumbly beige coating with orange zest pieces scattered on it. Behind the truffles, there are several slices of bright orange that add a vibrant color contrast. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these truffles in advance?

Yes, these truffles can be prepared a few days ahead of time and kept refrigerated. Just bring them to room temperature before serving.

What type of chocolate works best for truffles?

A good-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cacao is ideal because it provides the perfect balance of rich chocolate flavor without being too sweet.