Juicy Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
