Juicy Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles Recipe

Introduction

These Juicy Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles combine rich dark chocolate with bright, zesty orange for a festive treat. Soft, creamy ganache centers are coated in chocolate sprinkles, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting.

Ingredients

• 7 oz dark chocolate (preferably 70% cacao, chopped)
• 7 tbsp cold heavy cream
• 1/3 cup chocolate sprinkles
• 1 tsp freshly grated orange zest

Instructions

1. Step 1: Finely chop the dark chocolate and grate the orange zest. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and place chocolate sprinkles in a shallow bowl. In a small saucepan, combine cold heavy cream with the orange zest and gently heat over medium heat until it just starts to simmer around the edges. Remove from heat once tiny bubbles appear to prevent scorching.
2. Step 2: Add the chopped chocolate to the hot cream and let it sit undisturbed for 2-3 minutes. Then, stir gently from the center outwards until the mixture is smooth and uniform, forming a rich ganache.
3. Step 3: Pour the ganache into a shallow dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm but still pliable.
4. Step 4: Using a small spoon or mini scoop, portion the ganache and quickly roll each into a smooth ball between your palms. Roll each truffle in the chocolate sprinkles, pressing gently to coat completely.
5. Step 5: Place the coated truffles on the parchment-lined tray and chill for an additional 30 minutes to set. Transfer them to a container and store in the refrigerator.

Tips & Variations

• Use high-quality dark chocolate for a richer flavor and smoother texture.
• Substitute orange zest with other citrus zest like lemon or lime for a different twist.
• For a festive look, try rolling truffles in crushed nuts or cocoa powder instead of sprinkles.

Storage

Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To enjoy, remove them from the fridge about 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly. Avoid freezing, as it can affect the texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, milk chocolate will make the truffles sweeter and creamier. Adjust the orange zest amount to balance the flavors.

How do I prevent the cream from scorching?

Heat the cream gently over medium and remove it from the heat as soon as small bubbles appear around the edges, before a full boil develops. Stirring occasionally helps distribute heat evenly.

Juicy Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles Recipe

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These Juicy Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles combine rich dark chocolate with a hint of fresh orange zest, creating a luscious and festive treat perfect for the holiday season. Coated in chocolate sprinkles and chilled to perfection, these truffles offer a silky ganache center with a delightful citrus twist.

• Author: Tara
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
• Yield: 20 truffles 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: International

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chocolate Ganache

• 7 oz dark chocolate (Lindt 70% cacao, chopped)
• 7 tbsp heavy cream (cold)
• 1 tsp fresh orange zest (grated)

Coating

• 1/3 cup chocolate sprinkles

Instructions

1. Prepare Mis-en-Place and Infuse Cream: Finely chop the dark chocolate and grate the fresh orange zest, setting them aside. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and place chocolate sprinkles in a shallow bowl. In a small saucepan, combine the cold heavy cream with the orange zest and gently heat over medium heat until it just begins to simmer around the edges, avoiding a full boil. Remove from heat as tiny bubbles form around the edges to prevent scorching.
2. Create the Ganache: Remove the saucepan from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate to the hot cream. Let it sit undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to melt the chocolate. Then stir gently from the center outward using a whisk or spatula until smooth and glossy, forming a rich ganache.
3. Chill the Ganache: Pour the ganache into a shallow dish or small baking pan and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm but still pliable enough to shape.
4. Form and Coat Truffles: Using a small spoon or mini ice cream scoop, portion the ganache and roll each into smooth balls between your palms. Immediately toss each truffle in the chocolate sprinkles, pressing gently to ensure even coating.
5. Final Chill and Storage: Place coated truffles on the parchment-lined baking tray and chill in the refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes to set the coating and firm up completely. Once set, transfer to an airtight container and store refrigerated.

Notes

• Use good quality dark chocolate (70% cacao recommended) for the best flavor and texture.
• Ensure the cream does not boil to avoid curdling and preserve smooth ganache texture.
• Chilling the ganache adequately is crucial for easy shaping of truffles.
• Truffles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week in an airtight container.
• For a stronger orange flavor, increase the orange zest slightly but avoid adding too much to prevent bitterness.

Keywords: orange chocolate truffles, holiday desserts, Christmas treats, chocolate ganache, festive sweets, orange zest chocolates