Dark Chocolate Orange Truffles

Name: Dark Chocolate Orange Truffles
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 truffles
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher); 100ml heavy cream; Zest of 1 orange; 1 tablespoon orange liqueur (optional); Cocoa powder for coating

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making these Dark Chocolate Orange Truffles, especially during the holiday season. The combination of rich dark chocolate and fresh orange zest creates a delightful burst of flavor that always impresses my family and friends. They are surprisingly easy to make and require minimal ingredients, making them perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Plus, once I mastered the rolling technique, I found it to be a therapeutic and enjoyable process. Trust me, these truffles will elevate any dessert table!

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:43:16.486Z

When I first experimented with these truffles, I discovered that using high-quality dark chocolate made all the difference. The intense cocoa flavor paired with the brightness of orange zest creates a decadent treat that is simply irresistible. I often find myself sneaking a few truffles before serving them.

Another tip I learned is to chill the mixture for at least 15 minutes before rolling them. This helps the truffles maintain their shape and makes them easier to handle. Once coated in cocoa powder, they become little gems that are perfect for gifting or indulging!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

Understanding Chocolate Quality

Choosing the right dark chocolate is crucial for achieving the best flavor in your truffles. I recommend using chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content, as it provides a rich, intense flavor that perfectly complements the bright notes of orange. Higher cacao percentages yield a deeper flavor, but be sure to taste as you go; you might prefer a lower percentage for a sweeter profile.

When melting chocolate, it's important to avoid overheating. I like to melt it in a heat-proof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, ensuring that the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Stir often, and remove it from heat as soon as it's smooth and glossy. This prevents the chocolate from seizing, which can occur when exposed to moisture or too much heat.

The Role of Orange Zest

Fresh orange zest is what really elevates these truffles to a new level. The zest contains essential oils that contribute aromatic flavors without adding extra moisture, which can affect the truffle's texture. Be sure to use a microplane or fine grater to obtain the zest, taking care to avoid the bitter white pith beneath. This small touch adds a refreshing brightness that balances the richness of the dark chocolate beautifully.

If you're looking for an alternative, consider incorporating zest from other citrus fruits like lemon or lime for a unique twist. However, I recommend sticking with orange as the primary flavor, as its sweetness pairs exceptionally well with the chocolate. You can also experiment with flavored liqueurs, like Grand Marnier, to layer the citrus notes even further.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These truffles are perfect for making ahead of time. Once rolled in cocoa powder, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Simply place the truffles in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking, and they will last up to three months. Just remember to let them thaw in the fridge before serving for the best texture.

If you find the truffles too hard after chilling, a quick solution is to leave them at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before serving. This allows them to soften slightly, enhancing that melt-in-your-mouth experience. If you want to jazz them up even more, try rolling some in crushed nuts or shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.

Ingredients

For the Truffles

200g dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher)
100ml heavy cream
Zest of 1 orange
1 tablespoon orange liqueur (optional)
Cocoa powder for coating

Ensure to use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces and place it in a heat-proof bowl. In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for a minute, then whisk until smooth.

Add Flavors

Stir in the orange zest and orange liqueur, if using. Mix until well combined and let the mixture cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes.

Chill and Shape

Once the mixture is cool, refrigerate it for another 15 minutes until it becomes firm enough to handle. Using a small scoop or your hands, shape the mixture into small balls.

Coat the Truffles

Roll each truffle in cocoa powder until fully coated. Place them on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate them until set.

Serve

Enjoy the truffles chilled, or serve at room temperature for a softer texture!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pro Tips

Adjust the sweetness by using milk chocolate instead of dark if preferred. You can also try rolling the truffles in crushed nuts or shredded coconut for a different flavor profile!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your truffle mixture is too soft to handle after chilling, it may be beneficial to give it an additional 5-10 minutes in the refrigerator or freezer. Alternatively, you could mix in a bit more melted chocolate to firm it up, allowing for easier shaping. Ensuring the heavy cream is hot enough when pouring over the chocolate is also essential to achieve a smooth ganache.

In case your cocoa-coated truffles are too dusty, consider using a light hand when rolling them in cocoa powder—just a thin layer to enhance the flavor without masking the chocolate underneath. If you find the cocoa to be too bitter, dust them in powdered sugar or finely grated chocolate for a sweeter finish.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful presentation, serve these truffles on a decorative platter, possibly paired with additional slices of fresh orange or a drizzle of melted chocolate. They also make for an elegant party favor—just package them in small boxes tied with ribbon for a personal touch.

If you're feeling creative, consider dipping half of the truffles in tempered chocolate before coating in cocoa. This adds an appealing visual element and an extra layer of flavor. It's a fun way to make different variations while still staying true to the original recipe!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but keep in mind that the flavor will be sweeter and less intense. Adjust the amount of orange zest to balance the sweetness.

→ How long do these truffles last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

→ Is it necessary to use the orange liqueur?

No, it's optional! It adds extra depth of flavor, but you can omit it for a non-alcoholic version.

→ Can I freeze these truffles?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.