Description
These Juicy Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles combine rich, dark chocolate with a burst of fresh orange zest for a festive and indulgent treat. Coated in chocolate sprinkles, they offer a perfect balance of smooth, creamy texture and vibrant citrus flavor, making them an elegant and easy-to-make dessert perfect for holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Scale
Truffle Base
- 7 oz dark chocolate (70% cacao, chopped, Lindt recommended)
- 7 tbsp cold heavy cream
- 1 tsp freshly grated orange zest
Coating
- 1/3 cup chocolate sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare Chocolate: Chop the dark chocolate finely and place it in a heatproof bowl.
- Heat Cream: Gently warm the cold heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer, but do not let it boil.
- Combine Cream and Chocolate: Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let sit for 1-2 minutes to soften the chocolate.
- Melt the Mixture: Stir gently and continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Add Orange Zest: Stir in the freshly grated orange zest, folding it evenly into the chocolate mixture for a fragrant citrus flavor.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until the mixture is firm enough to scoop.
- Shape the Truffles: Using a teaspoon or melon baller, scoop small portions of the chocolate mixture and quickly roll them between your palms to form smooth balls.
- Coat with Sprinkles: Roll each chocolate ball in the chocolate sprinkles until fully coated, then place on a parchment-lined tray.
- Final Chill: Refrigerate the coated truffles for another 30 minutes to set completely before serving.
Notes
- Use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cacao for best flavor and texture.
- Chilling the mixture is essential to make rolling easier and to maintain the truffles’ shape.
- Fresh orange zest adds brightness without overpowering the chocolate; adjust to taste.
- Store truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For a twist, try rolling truffles in cocoa powder, crushed nuts, or shredded coconut instead of sprinkles.
Keywords: orange chocolate truffles, Christmas truffles, festive chocolate desserts, dark chocolate truffles, holiday treats, chocolate orange dessert