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Chocolate Orange Christmas Truffles Recipe

4.9 from 133 reviews

Indulge in these rich and festive Chocolate Orange Christmas Truffles, perfect for holiday gifting or a luxurious treat. Made with smooth dark chocolate ganache infused with fresh orange zest and a hint of orange liqueur, these bite-sized delights are coated in cocoa powder, chopped nuts, or powdered sugar for added texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Ganache

  • 200g dark chocolate (at least 60% cacao), finely chopped
  • 120ml heavy cream
  • 30g unsalted butter
  • Zest of 1 fresh orange
  • 12 tbsp orange liqueur (optional, e.g., Grand Marnier or Cointreau)

Coatings

  • Cocoa powder (for rolling)
  • Chopped nuts (such as pistachios, hazelnuts, or almonds)
  • Powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ganache: Finely chop the dark chocolate and place it in a heatproof bowl. Heat the heavy cream and unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until bubbles form around the edges. Immediately pour the hot cream mixture over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for a couple of minutes to melt the chocolate.
  2. Incorporate Orange Zest and Liqueur: Stir the mixture gently until it becomes smooth and glossy. Fold in the fresh orange zest and orange liqueur if using, mixing thoroughly to meld all the flavors together.
  3. Chill the Mixture: Cover the ganache with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm enough to scoop and shape.
  4. Shape the Truffles: Using a small melon baller or teaspoon, scoop portions of the chilled ganache. Quickly roll each portion between your palms to form smooth balls, working fast to prevent melting and stickiness.
  5. Coat the Truffles: Roll each shaped truffle in your choice of coatings—cocoa powder, chopped nuts, or powdered sugar. Place the coated truffles on parchment paper and refrigerate again until firm and ready to serve.

Notes

  • For best results, use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cacao content.
  • To avoid melting, chill your hands or use gloves while shaping the truffles.
  • Orange liqueur is optional but adds a lovely depth of flavor; you can omit for a non-alcoholic version.
  • Store truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Keywords: Chocolate orange truffles, Christmas truffles, holiday dessert, chocolate ganache, festive treats