Festive Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles
Celebrate the holiday season with these Festive Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles that blend creamy dark chocolate and fresh orange zest for a luxurious and bright treat. Easy to make, customizable, and perfect for gifting or holiday parties, these truffles offer a delicious balance of rich chocolate and vibrant citrus flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: About 30 truffles 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 200g good-quality dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa), chopped
- 100ml heavy cream
- 30g unsalted butter
- Zest of 1 fresh orange
- 1 tbsp orange liqueur (optional)
For Coating
- Cocoa powder
- Powdered sugar
- Finely chopped toasted nuts (almonds or pistachios)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ganache Base: Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces and place them in a heatproof bowl. Heat the heavy cream and butter together until just simmering, then pour over the chocolate. Let sit for one minute, then gently stir until smooth and glossy.
- Add Orange Zest and Liqueur: Fold in the fresh orange zest and a splash of orange liqueur, if using. Mix thoroughly to evenly combine the citrus flavor throughout the chocolate.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2-3 hours, or until the ganache is firm enough to scoop.
- Shape the Truffles: Using a teaspoon or melon baller, scoop small portions of ganache. Quickly roll between your palms to form smooth, round truffles, working fast to prevent melting.
- Coat the Truffles: Roll the shaped truffles in cocoa powder, powdered sugar, or chopped nuts to coat evenly. Place on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate until completely set.
Notes
- Use quality chocolate for the best flavor.
- Zest the orange just before using to preserve aroma and avoid bitterness.
- Keep your hands cool while rolling to prevent melting.
- Experiment with different coatings such as matcha, crushed peppermint, or toasted coconut for variety.
- Store truffles refrigerated in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 truffle (approx.)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Festive, Christmas, Truffles, Orange, Chocolate, Holiday treat, Gift idea, Gluten Free