Dark Chocolate and Orange Truffles

Dark Chocolate and Orange Truffles Recipe

The dark chocolate and orange truffles combine the intensity and depth of cocoa with the refreshing citrus touch of orange, creating an dessert exquisite treat for any occasion. They are perfect for sharing and easy to prepare at home, even for those who don't have much cooking experience.

Preparation time

Find out the time you need to prepare these delicious chocolate and orange truffles.

• Preparation: 40 minutes
• Cooking: 20 minutes
• Total: 60 minutes
• Servings: 20 truffles
• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

For the truffles

• 200 g of dark chocolate (minimum 70% cocoa)
• 100 ml whipping cream
• 30 g unsalted butter
• Zest of one fresh orange
• 2 tablespoons orange liqueur (optional)
• 20 g cocoa powder for coating (optional)

If you don't have orange liqueur, you can substitute it with natural orange juice. The amount of cream can be adjusted to obtain a more or less creamy texture as you prefer.

Utensils we will use

• Medium pot
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and board for zesting
• Spoon or spatula for stirring
• Small spoon for forming balls
• Plate covered with paper for chilling
• Two forks for dipping the truffles (optional)

Preparation

1. Prepare the chocolate and orange mixture

1. Heat the cream and butter: Put the liquid cream in a pot along with the butter. Heat over medium heat until the butter melts and the mixture is hot, but without boiling. This step is key for the chocolate to melt well and for the mixture to be creamy.
2. Incorporate the chocolate: Remove the pot from the heat and add half of the dark chocolate chopped into small pieces. Stir with a spatula until the chocolate is completely melted. The residual heat will allow it to integrate slowly, preventing the chocolate from burning and becoming bitter.
3. Add orange and liqueur: Add the fresh orange zest and orange liqueur or natural juice. Mix evenly so that the citrus flavor permeates the entire chocolate base. The zest provides intense aromas that combine with the bitterness of the cocoa.
4. Refrigerate: Pour the mixture into a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until the dough is firm and easy to handle.

2. Shape and prepare the balls

1. Form the truffles: With a small spoon, take portions of the mixture and form small balls with clean hands or with the help of a spoon. The cold texture will be more manageable to prevent it from sticking to your fingers.
2. Rest in the fridge: Place the small balls on a plate covered with paper to prevent them from sticking and return to the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.

3. Chocolate coating

1. Prepare the chocolate for dipping: Heat the rest of the chocolate along with a teaspoon of vegetable oil in a double boiler or over very low heat in a pot. You should obtain a smooth and homogeneous mixture.
2. Dip the truffles: Let the warm chocolate cool slightly. Dip each truffle with two forks to completely cover them with the melted chocolate and place them back on the plate.
3. Final chill: Store again in the fridge until the chocolate hardens.

To finish and serve

Before serving, if you prefer, sprinkle a little cocoa powder on top for a more elegant finish and a balanced flavor. These chocolate and orange truffles are best enjoyed cold, accompanied by a hot drink such as a spiced hot chocolate with rum or an intense coffee.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 110 kcal
• Protein: 1.5 g
• Fats: 8 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g

Approximate values per serving (1 truffle), may vary depending on ingredients and size.

7 practical tips for perfect truffles

1. Use quality chocolate: Choose dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a deep and balanced flavor with the orange.
2. Zest the orange just before using: Fresh zest has essential oils that provide aromatic intensity and flavor.
3. Do not let the cream boil: Only heat it to avoid losing the smooth texture or burning the ingredients.
4. Chill the mixture well: Refrigerating the mixture is essential to facilitate the formation of the balls without them sticking.
5. Adapt the coating: If you don't have oil for the chocolate bath, melt the chocolate slowly to maintain a fluid texture.
6. Vary the flavor: Add spices like cinnamon or pink pepper to give different nuances to the truffles.
7. Store in the cold: Always keep the truffles in the fridge to maintain their optimal texture and flavor.

When is it ideal to enjoy dark chocolate and orange truffles?

These truffles are ideal for special occasions such as family gatherings, celebration dinners, or as a surprising homemade gift. Their intensity and freshness work very well in autumn and winter months, accompanying hot drinks and creating cozy moments. They are also perfect as a gourmet detail for guests or simply for a sweet craving with citrus fruits and intense flavors that brighten any day.

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Frequently asked questions about dark chocolate and orange truffles

Share your experience with dark chocolate and orange truffles

After preparing these chocolate and orange truffles, comment on how they turned out, what variations you tried, and if you found any tricks to improve the recipe. Cooking is a space for learning and sharing, your experience can inspire others to try these delicious chocolates at home.

Culinary glossary of terms used in this recipe

• Dark chocolate: Chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa and little to no sugar, with an intense and less sweet flavor.
• Zest: The colored outer layer of citrus fruit peel, used to flavor without bitterness.
• Liquid cream: Cream with high fat content, used to give smoothness and creaminess to preparations.
• Water bath: Indirect cooking technique where one container is heated with another full of hot water to melt delicate ingredients like chocolate.
• Orange liqueur: Alcoholic beverage with orange flavor, used to give aroma and flavor in desserts.