Name: Chocolate Orange Truffles Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 90 ml thickened/whipping cream (⅓ cup + 2 tsp); 200 g dark cooking chocolate (40% cocoa solids), finely chopped; 1 teaspoon orange zest, finely grated; ⅓ cup chocolate sprinkles

There’s something utterly indulgent about the pairing of chocolate and orange – the rich cocoa dancing with bright citrus notes. That’s why I’m excited to share this Chocolate Orange Truffles Recipe that’s both elegant and surprisingly simple, perfect whether you’re treating yourself or gifting loved ones.

A white plate filled with multiple small round chocolate balls covered in dark chocolate sprinkles, one ball is bitten showing a smooth, dark chocolate inside. On the right side of the plate, there are bright orange slices with a juicy texture. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Chocolate Orange Truffles Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Chocolate Orange Truffles Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Chocolate Orange Truffles Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I absolutely adore these truffles for how effortlessly you can whisk up something that tastes like a luxury chocolatier’s creation right at home. Once I started making them, they quickly became my go-to for celebrations and cozy nights in.

Simple Ingredients: You only need a few kitchen staples – good chocolate, cream, and fresh orange zest – to create something magical.
Decadent Flavor Combo: The tangy orange zest perfectly lifts the deep, smooth dark chocolate, making these truffles unforgettable.
Customizable Coating: While I love chocolate sprinkles, you can easily mix it up with cocoa powder, crushed nuts, or even desiccated coconut to suit your mood.
Make-Ahead Friendly: These truffles need some chilling time, but they keep beautifully for up to a week, making them perfect for prepping ahead of time.

A round white plate is filled with about twenty small dark chocolate balls covered evenly with chocolate sprinkles. Around the edge of the plate, there are seven bright orange slices placed in a circular pattern, each slice showing the juicy texture of the fruit. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient plays a key role here. The cream creates a silky ganache base, the dark chocolate brings structure and richness, and the fresh orange zest adds that vibrant, unmistakable citrus kick. Here are a few tips when picking your ingredients:

Flat lay of a small white ceramic bowl filled with thickened cream, a neat pile of finely chopped dark cooking chocolate pieces, a small white ceramic bowl containing finely grated fresh orange zest, and a small white ceramic bowl filled with glossy dark chocolate sprinkles, all arranged in perfect symmetry, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Thickened/Whipping Cream: Use full-fat cream (at least 35% fat) for the creamiest texture and richest flavor balance.
Dark Cooking Chocolate (40% cocoa solids): I find 40% cocoa solids hits the sweet spot—not too bitter, not overly sweet. Finely chop it so it melts smoothly.
Orange Zest: Freshly grated zest is key—it’s bursting with natural oils that bring brightness. Avoid the white pith as it can add bitterness.
Chocolate Sprinkles: I love these for a festive, crunchy coating, but you can switch to cocoa powder, chopped nuts, or even finely grated freeze-dried orange for variety.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Chocolate Orange Truffles Recipe is how easy it is to personalize. I often switch up the coatings depending on the season or occasion, and it’s fun to experiment with unexpected additions.

Variation: Sometimes, I stir a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder into the ganache for a warm, spicy twist that surprises guests.
Dairy-Free Adaptation: Swap the cream for coconut cream to make dairy-free truffles that still have a luscious texture.
Seasonal Flair: Around Christmas, I love adding a splash of Grand Marnier or Orange Liqueur to deepen the orange flavor and add a festive kick.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Chocolate Orange Truffles Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Space and Ingredients

Start by lining a small dish (I use a 13 x 18 cm Pyrex) with non-stick baking paper – to make this easier, scrunch the paper first to soften it, then unfold and fit it inside. Pop some chocolate sprinkles into a small bowl nearby and line a tray with baking paper for later. Having everything ready means less scrambling when your ganache is set.

Step 2: Heat Cream with Orange Zest

Pour your thickened cream and freshly grated orange zest into a small saucepan. Warm on low heat just until it’s about to simmer—not boiling—because overheating can cause the cream to separate. This gentle heat lets the zest infuse its vibrant citrus oils into the cream beautifully.

Step 3: Melt Chocolate Into Cream

Turn off the heat, then add your finely chopped dark chocolate to the hot cream. Stir gently but continuously until the chocolate fully melts into a silky, smooth mixture. This step is key – if you use chopped chocolate that’s too large or stir too fast, it can seize. Patience is your friend here.

Step 4: Chill Until Firm

Pour the ganache into your lined dish and smooth it out. Pop it in the fridge for around 2 hours, or until it’s firm enough to scoop and roll. This waiting time is crucial—if you try rolling too early, the mixture will be too soft and sticky to shape.

Step 5: Roll and Coat Your Truffles

Using a small ice cream scoop or teaspoon, scoop about 3 teaspoons of the chilled ganache and roll it between your palms into a smooth ball. If it feels too stiff, leave it for 5-10 minutes at room temp to soften slightly – rushing this step can cause cracks. Keep your hands cool by resting them on an ice pack or frozen peas wrapped in a towel; this helps prevent the truffles from melting under your fingers.

Once rolled, toss each ball in the bowl of chocolate sprinkles, shaking the bowl to help coat evenly. Arrange the coated truffles on your lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the coating firmly.

Top Tip

After making these truffles several times, I’ve learned there are a few tricks that make all the difference between so-so and spectacular.

Cool Hands: I always keep an ice pack beside me when rolling the truffles. It prevents the ganache from melting into a sticky mess and helps the balls keep their shape.
Fine Chocolate Chop: Chopping the chocolate finely ensures it melts smoothly and quickly, preventing any graininess in the ganache.
Fresh Zest Only: Using fresh orange zest, not dried, makes a huge difference. Those oils provide the stunning aromatic punch that truly lifts the truffles.
Patience with Chilling: Don’t rush the chilling steps. Waiting until firm helps the truffles hold their shape and makes rolling much easier.

How to Serve Chocolate Orange Truffles Recipe

Chocolate Orange Truffles - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I usually stick with chocolate sprinkles because they add that classic festive look and subtle crunch. But for a personal touch, I like to dust some with cocoa powder or roll a few in finely chopped toasted almonds for an extra nutty flavor and texture contrast.

Side Dishes

These truffles are a perfect after-dinner treat alongside a steaming cup of black coffee or a glass of full-bodied red wine. I’ve also served them on dessert platters with fresh berries and whipped cream for a show-stopping finish.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I arrange the truffles in mini cupcake liners, alternating coatings for color variety. Another fun idea I tried was stacking them in a clear glass jar layered with orange peel curls and tied with a festive ribbon — they made beautiful edible gifts!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your truffles in an airtight container in the fridge. I like to layer them with sheets of non-stick baking paper to keep each one pristine. They'll stay fresh for up to a week, which makes them perfect for slicing off little indulgences whenever the mood strikes.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze these truffles! I wrap each one in parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you want to enjoy them, just thaw in the fridge overnight — they maintain their rich flavor and silky texture beautifully.

Reheating

No reheating needed here – these truffles taste best chilled or at cool room temperature. If you find them too firm from the fridge, simply sit them out for 10 minutes before enjoying to soften slightly for that melt-in-your-mouth moment.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

You can, but dark chocolate with 40% cocoa solids offers a better flavor balance with the orange zest. Milk chocolate will make the truffles sweeter and less intense. Adjust the amount of cream slightly if you switch chocolates to get the right ganache consistency.

What if my truffle mixture is too soft to roll?

If your ganache is too soft, just return it to the fridge for 10-15 minutes. Also, keep your hands cool while rolling to avoid melting the mixture. If it gets sticky, dust your hands lightly with cocoa powder or wipe them with a cold, damp cloth.

Can I add alcohol to the Chocolate Orange Truffles Recipe?

Yes! Adding a splash of orange liqueur like Grand Marnier or Cointreau works beautifully and brings an adult twist. Mix it in with the cream and zest before adding the chocolate. Use sparingly, about a tablespoon, so it doesn’t affect the set of the ganache.

How long do chocolate orange truffles last?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, chocolate orange truffles will stay fresh for up to one week. Beyond that, they may start to lose texture and flavor. For longer storage, freezing is recommended as described above.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Orange Truffles Recipe has become one of my favorite little luxuries to make and share. It’s straightforward enough for a beginner, but the flavor and texture will impress even the most discerning chocolate lover. I hope when you try it, it brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine—whether it's a special gift or a moment of daily indulgence.