Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles Recipe

Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles are the perfect festive treat that combines rich dark chocolate with bright citrus flavors in every decadent bite. These homemade truffles bring holiday magic to your kitchen with just four simple ingredients and about 2.5 hours from start to finish.

Last December, I was scrambling for a last-minute gift when I remembered my grandmother’s chocolate truffle recipe. I added fresh orange zest to create these Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles, and they became an instant family favorite. The creamy ganache center paired with that bright citrus pop makes these truffles irresistible. What I love most is how the chocolate sprinkle coating adds the perfect textural contrast while keeping the presentation beautifully festive. These orange chocolate truffles are surprisingly easy to make and store beautifully for holiday entertaining.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Chocolate Truffles

I always recommend using high-quality dark chocolate for the richest flavor in these Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles. The ingredient list is refreshingly simple, but each component plays a crucial role in creating that perfect truffle texture.

• 90 ml (about 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 – I prefer using organic oranges for the best zest
• 1/3 cup chocolate sprinkles

Pro tip from my kitchen: Make sure to finely chop your chocolate for even melting, and always use fresh orange zest rather than dried for that bright citrus flavor that makes these orange chocolate truffles special.

Step-by-Step Truffle Making Process

I recommend having all your equipment ready before starting, as the chocolate mixture needs to be handled while it’s at the right temperature for these Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles.

Step 1: Line a small flat dish (13 x 18 cm or 7 x 5 inches) with non-stick baking paper. Place chocolate sprinkles in a small bowl and set aside. Line a baking tray with baking paper for the finished truffles.

Step 2: Add heavy cream and finely grated orange peel to a small saucepan. Over low heat, gradually heat the cream until it reaches just below boiling point. Watch carefully – you’ll see small bubbles forming around the edges, but don’t let it actually boil.

Step 3: Turn off heat and add finely chopped chocolate to the hot cream mixture. Let it sit for 30 seconds, then stir gently until chocolate is fully melted and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. This creates your ganache base.

Step 4: Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared lined dish, smoothing it into an even layer. Transfer to refrigerator and chill for about 2 hours, or until mixture is firm enough to handle and roll into balls.

Step 5: Using a small ice cream scoop or teaspoon, scoop about 3 level teaspoons of chocolate mixture and roll into small balls. Keep an ice pack nearby to cool your hands – this prevents the chocolate from melting and makes rolling much easier.

Step 6: Toss each chocolate ball in the bowl of chocolate sprinkles, moving the bowl around to ensure even coating. Place each coated Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffle on the prepared baking tray.

Step 7: Refrigerate the chocolate balls on tray for at least 30 minutes, or until firm and ready to serve.

Perfect Pairings for Orange Chocolate Truffles

These Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles pair beautifully with both beverages and complementary desserts that enhance their rich chocolate and citrus flavors.

Coffee or Espresso: The bitter notes perfectly balance the sweet chocolate while highlighting the orange zest.

Champagne or Prosecco: The bubbles cleanse the palate between bites, making these orange chocolate truffles ideal for celebrations.

Port or Dessert Wine: Creates an elegant adult dessert experience with complementary rich flavors.

Hot Chocolate: Double down on chocolate flavor for the ultimate cozy winter treat.

Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add bright acidity that complements the citrus notes beautifully.

Perfect Holiday Pairings for Your Truffle Platter

These elegant Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles create the perfect ending to any holiday meal when paired with complementary treats and appetizers. Serve alongside our irresistible Hot Chocolate Cookies for a chocolate lover’s dream dessert table – the warm, gooey cookies provide a delightful temperature contrast to these chilled truffles.

Build an impressive holiday spread by starting with sophisticated appetizers like our Cranberry Pecan Brie in Flaky Puff Pastry and Herb and Cheese Stuffed Puff Pastry Bites, followed by hearty mains like Stuffed Meatballs with Mozzarella Cheese, Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta, or light options like Viral Cottage Cheese Flatbread and BBQ Chicken Flatbread.

Smart Storage Solutions for Homemade Truffles

Store your Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. I recommend separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain their beautiful appearance.

For serving, remove the truffles from the refrigerator about 10-15 minutes before enjoying to allow them to soften slightly. This brings out the full flavor of the orange chocolate combination while maintaining that perfect creamy texture.

Common Questions About Orange Chocolate Truffles

Your Holiday Baking Success Story Starts Here

These Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles prove that impressive holiday treats don’t require complicated techniques or endless ingredients. The combination of rich chocolate and bright orange creates a sophisticated flavor that guests will remember long after the holidays end. Try this recipe tonight and discover how easy it is to create bakery-quality truffles in your own kitchen!

Print