Dark Chocolate Orange Truffles

Name: Dark Chocolate Orange Truffles
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 truffles
Ingredients: 8 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp fresh orange zest; 2 tbsp orange liqueur (optional); Cocoa powder or chopped nuts for rolling

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore these Dark Chocolate Orange Truffles! The combination of rich dark chocolate and the invigorating zest of fresh orange creates an irresistible treat. I love how simple they are to make yet they taste indulgent enough for special occasions. The contrasting flavors and textures are a delight, and letting them chill in the fridge allows the flavors to meld beautifully. These truffles are sure to impress anyone who tries them, making them a perfect addition to any dessert table or gift box.

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-10T00:58:11.377Z

Making these truffles was an adventure in flavor; I experimented with different chocolate brands and finally settled on a deep, dark chocolate that balances perfectly with the orange zest. To infuse the orange flavor, I grated in some fresh zest, which added a lovely brightness that elevated the entire confection. I found that letting the truffles cool and set in the fridge for a few hours made a big difference in both texture and taste, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

When forming the truffles, I learned that using a small ice cream scoop ensures they’re all uniform in size, which helps with presentation and tasting consistency. I also decided to roll some in cocoa powder and others in finely chopped nuts for an extra layer of flavor and texture. This simple technique turned what could have been a standard dessert into something truly special.

        Why You Will Love These Truffles
        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 Choices

Choosing the right dark chocolate is crucial for your truffles. Aim for chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content, as this provides a rich depth of flavor. Higher cocoa content chocolate offers a more intense experience, while a lower percentage can result in a sweeter, less complex taste. I prefer to use a slab of quality chocolate rather than chocolate chips, as it melts more evenly and creates a smoother ganache.

When you chop the chocolate, try to keep the pieces uniform to ensure even melting. If you’re unsure which brand to use, consider tasting a few varieties—look for notes of fruitiness or earthiness, as these flavors will complement the fresh orange zest in your truffles beautifully.

Perfecting the Chilling Process

After mixing the ganache and adding your flavors, chilling is essential. The initial 10-minute chill should be just long enough for the mixture to firm without becoming too hard to scoop. If your mixture is too soft after this time, you can chill it longer, but be cautious; over-chilling can make it difficult to form balls. The ideal consistency should be scoopable yet firm enough to hold its shape when rolled.

Once you form the truffles, another chill is necessary to set them. It’s tempting to skip this step, but letting them rest in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes solidifies their texture and flavor. I recommend using parchment paper on your baking sheet to prevent sticking, making cleanup easier.

Customization and Variations

While the base recipe is delicious as is, feel free to get creative! You can substitute the orange liqueur with other flavors—try using raspberry liqueur for a berry twist or even espresso for a coffee-infused treat. Additionally, consider rolling the truffles in finely chopped pistachios or coconut flakes instead of cocoa powder for a different texture and flavor profile.

If you're looking to reduce sugar or make the truffles dairy-free, opt for dark chocolate that contains no dairy, and substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream. Just keep in mind that different types of cream may alter the texture slightly, so adjust your chilling time as needed.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Dark Chocolate Orange Truffles

8 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp fresh orange zest
2 tbsp orange liqueur (optional)
Cocoa powder or chopped nuts for rolling

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best blending results.

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces and place it in a heatproof bowl. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it starts to simmer, then pour it over the chocolate. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth.

Add Flavors

Mix in the fresh orange zest and orange liqueur, if using, until everything is well combined. The zesty aroma should be delightful!

Chill the Mixture

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 10 minutes, or until the mixture is firm enough to scoop.

Form the Truffles

Once chilled, use a small ice cream scoop or your hands to form small balls of the mixture. Roll them between your palms until smooth.

Coat the Truffles

Roll the truffles in cocoa powder or chopped nuts until fully coated. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Final Chill

Refrigerate the truffles for at least 20 minutes to set before serving. Enjoy your delightful creations!

These truffles can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Pro Tips

For an added twist, you can experiment with different flavors of zest or add a pinch of sea salt for contrast.

Storage Tips

These Dark Chocolate Orange Truffles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. They often taste even better after a day or two, as the flavors have time to meld. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the truffles in a single layer on a baking sheet first, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen truffles, simply transfer them to the refrigerator to thaw for a few hours or let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. This gradual thawing helps preserve their creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

These truffles make a delightful addition to a dessert platter, especially when paired with fresh fruit like strawberries or a citrus salad that complements the orange notes. For a festive touch, consider presenting them in decorative cupcake liners and drizzling some additional melted chocolate on top as a garnish.

If you're gifting these truffles, placing them in a beautifully wrapped box or a mason jar with a ribbon not only elevates their presentation but also adds a personal touch. A handwritten note with serving suggestions can impress your recipients even more.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but make sure to use high-quality chocolate chips for the best flavor and texture.

→ How do I store these truffles?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead?

Absolutely! Just know that it will result in a sweeter truffle.

→ Is it necessary to use orange liqueur?

No, the liqueur is optional. The zest alone adds great flavor.