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Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles

Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles
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These Orange Chocolate Christmas Truffles blend rich dark chocolate with fresh orange zest to create a festive, melt-in-your-mouth treat perfect for holiday gifting and entertaining. With a creamy ganache center coated in cocoa powder or sugar, they offer a balanced flavor of sweet citrus and intense chocolate.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Dark Chocolate (8 ounces) – at least 70% cocoa
  • Heavy Cream (1/2 cup)
  • Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons)
  • Fresh Orange Zest (1 tablespoon)
  • Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)
  • Optional Orange Liqueur (1 tablespoon)

Coating Options

  • Fine Sugar or Cocoa Powder for Coating
  • Optional: Crushed toasted almonds or pistachios (for nutty crunch)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ganache: Chop the dark chocolate into small, even pieces and place them in a heatproof bowl. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it begins to simmer gently. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for a minute to soften the chocolate.
  2. Stir Until Smooth: Using a spatula, gently stir the mixture until it becomes completely smooth and glossy. Add the unsalted butter, fresh orange zest, vanilla extract, and orange liqueur if using. Stir again to incorporate all the flavors evenly.
  3. Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the ganache for at least 2 hours, or until it’s firm enough to scoop and shape.
  4. Shape the Truffles: Using a small spoon or melon baller, scoop out portions of ganache and quickly roll between your palms to form small balls. If the ganache becomes too soft, refrigerate it for a few minutes before continuing.
  5. Coat the Truffles: Roll each truffle in cocoa powder, powdered sugar, or finely chopped nuts to coat completely. Place the finished truffles on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate until firm.

Notes

  • Use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for the best flavor and texture.
  • Heat the cream just to a simmer, not boiling, to avoid seizing the chocolate.
  • Chill the ganache thoroughly to make shaping easier and less sticky.
  • Always use freshly grated orange zest for vibrant citrus flavor; dried zest is less potent.
  • Wipe your hands regularly while rolling to prevent the ganache from melting too quickly.

Nutrition

Keywords: orange chocolate truffles, Christmas truffles, holiday desserts, chocolate ganache, festive sweets

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/orange-chocolate-christmas-truffles/