Growing up, my grandmother would always have a special treat waiting for us after a family dinner. Her signature truffles, rich and indulgent, were a highlight of our gatherings. As I reminisce about those cozy evenings filled with laughter and love, I decided to give her classic recipe a modern twist by incorporating zesty orange to balance the deep flavors of dark chocolate. These Decadent Dark Chocolate Orange Truffles are sure to become a cherished tradition in your home as they were in mine.
Ingredients
- 8 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- Cocoa powder, for dusting
- Optional: crushed nuts or shredded coconut for coating
Instructions
Begin by preparing your workspace. Gather all ingredients and tools. You’ll need a heatproof bowl, a whisk, a spatula, a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and a small scoop or melon baller for shaping the truffles.
In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and unsalted butter. Set aside. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Be careful not to boil it.
Once the cream is simmering, pour it over the chocolate and butter mixture. Let it sit for a minute to soften the chocolate, then gently whisk until smooth and glossy.
Add the vanilla extract, orange zest, and fresh orange juice to the chocolate mixture. Stir until everything is well combined. This is where the magic happens—the bright citrus notes meld beautifully with the deep chocolate.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for about 2 hours, or until it is firm enough to handle.
Once the truffle mixture is set, scoop out small portions using your small scoop or melon baller. Roll each portion into a ball between your hands. If the mixture is too sticky, you can lightly dust your hands with cocoa powder.
Roll the truffles in cocoa powder, crushed nuts, or shredded coconut for an added layer of texture and flavor. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
After all the truffles are rolled, return them to the refrigerator to chill for another 30 minutes. This will help them firm up even more.
Once chilled, serve these delightful truffles on a beautiful platter, and watch as everyone’s eyes light up with joy. They make for a perfect dessert to share with loved ones—just as my grandmother would have wanted.
These Decadent Dark Chocolate Orange Truffles are a modern take on a classic treat, combining nostalgia with a hint of citrusy brightness. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or as a sweet finish to any meal. Happy baking!