Juicy Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles Recipe

Introduction

These Juicy Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles combine rich dark chocolate with a bright hint of orange zest, making them a delightful holiday treat. They are simple to make and perfect for sharing or gifting during festive gatherings.

Ingredients

• 90 ml (around 1/3 cup plus 2 teaspoons) heavy cream
• 200 g (7 oz) dark cooking chocolate (40% cocoa), finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon finely grated orange peel
• 1/3 cup chocolate sprinkles

Instructions

1. Step 1: Line a small, flat dish with non-stick baking paper. A Pyrex dish measuring about 13 x 18 cm (7 x 5 inches) works well. Also, place the chocolate sprinkles in a small bowl and line a baking tray with non-stick baking paper for later use.
2. Step 2: In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream and finely grated orange peel. Heat gently over low heat until just below boiling point. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Stir gently until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
3. Step 3: Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared dish and smooth it evenly. Chill in the refrigerator for about 2 hours, or until firm enough to handle.
4. Step 4: Using a small ice cream scoop or teaspoon, scoop approximately 3 level teaspoons of the chocolate mixture. Roll each portion into a compact ball. If the mixture is too firm to roll, let it sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes. To keep your hands cool, use an ice pack or frozen peas and dry your hands with paper towels as needed.
5. Step 5: Roll each chocolate ball in the bowl of chocolate sprinkles until evenly coated. Place the coated balls on the prepared baking tray.
6. Step 6: Refrigerate the truffles on the tray for at least 30 minutes until firm. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, separating layers with non-stick baking paper if stacking.

Tips & Variations

• Use a good quality dark chocolate with at least 40% cocoa for the best flavor and smooth texture.
• Add a splash of orange liqueur such as Grand Marnier to the cream for an extra citrusy kick.
• If you prefer, roll the truffles in cocoa powder or powdered sugar instead of chocolate sprinkles for a different finish.

Storage

Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If stacking the truffles, place sheets of non-stick baking paper between the layers to prevent sticking. For serving, you can let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before enjoying.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter, creamier truffle. Keep in mind the flavor will be less intense and you might want to reduce added sugar elsewhere in the recipe if you adjust it.

How do I prevent the truffles from melting while rolling?

Keep your hands cool by pressing them against a cold surface or by holding an ice pack intermittently. Also, rolling small batches and working quickly will help prevent the truffles from becoming too soft.

Juicy Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles Recipe

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These Juicy Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles combine rich dark chocolate with a zesty hint of orange, creating a festive and indulgent treat. Coated with chocolate sprinkles, these truffles are perfect for holiday gifting or as a decadent dessert at your Christmas celebration.

• Author: Stella
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 20 truffles 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Christmas, Western

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Truffle Base

• 90 ml (around 1/3 cup plus 2 teaspoons) heavy cream
• 200 g (7 oz) dark cooking chocolate (40% cocoa), finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon finely grated orange peel

Coating

• 1/3 cup chocolate sprinkles

Instructions

1. Prepare the Equipment and Ingredients: Line a small, flat dish with non-stick baking paper; a 13 x 18 cm Pyrex dish works well. Place the chocolate sprinkles in a small bowl and set aside. Also, line a baking tray with non-stick baking paper for later.
2. Heat the Cream and Melt the Chocolate: Combine the heavy cream and orange zest in a small saucepan. Heat slowly over low heat until just below boiling point. Remove from heat and add the finely chopped chocolate. Stir gently until fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
3. Chill the Chocolate Mixture: Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared dish and smooth into an even layer. Refrigerate for about 2 hours, or until firm enough to handle and shape.
4. Shape the Chocolate Balls: Using a small ice cream scoop or teaspoon, scoop about 3 level teaspoons of the chilled chocolate mixture and roll into compact balls. If the chocolate is too firm, let sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes. Use an ice pack to cool your hands if needed, keeping them dry while rolling.
5. Coat in Chocolate Sprinkles: Toss each rolled chocolate ball in the bowl of chocolate sprinkles, ensuring an even coating. Place coated truffles on the prepared baking tray lined with baking paper.
6. Refrigerate and Store the Truffles: Chill the coated truffles in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes until firm. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Separate layers with baking paper if stacking.

Notes

• Use high-quality dark chocolate with 40% cocoa for balanced flavor and texture.
• If the truffles become too soft while rolling, chill your hands with an ice pack or run them under cold water briefly and dry thoroughly.
• The orange zest adds a fresh citrus flavor, but adjust quantity according to taste preferences.
• For longer storage, freeze the truffles in an airtight container and thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Rolling the truffles quickly helps maintain their shape and texture.

Keywords: orange chocolate truffles, Christmas treats, holiday desserts, chocolate sprinkles, festive truffles