Orange Chocolate Truffles Gift (Printer-Friendly)

Creamy orange and dark chocolate bites ideal for holiday gifting and savoring at home.

# List of Ingredients:

→ Dairy

01 - 1/3 cup plus 2 teaspoons heavy cream (90 ml)

→ Chocolate

02 - 7 oz (200 g) dark cooking chocolate (40% cocoa), finely chopped
03 - 1/3 cup chocolate sprinkles

→ Flavoring

04 - 1 teaspoon finely grated orange peel

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Line a small flat dish (approximately 5 x 7 inches) with non-stick baking paper. Place chocolate sprinkles in a small bowl and set aside. Also, line a baking tray with non-stick baking paper and set aside for later use.
02 - Combine heavy cream and grated orange peel in a small saucepan. Heat gently over low heat until just below boiling, then remove from heat. Stir in chopped chocolate until fully melted and mixture is smooth and glossy.
03 - Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared dish and smooth into an even layer. Refrigerate for about 2 hours until firm enough to handle and shape.
04 - Use a teaspoon or small ice cream scoop to portion about 3 level teaspoons of mixture. Roll into compact balls, cooling hands with an ice pack if necessary. If too firm, let sit at room temperature 5-10 minutes before rolling.
05 - Toss each ball in the bowl of chocolate sprinkles to coat evenly. Arrange coated truffles on the prepared baking tray.
06 - Refrigerate the coated truffles for at least 30 minutes until firm. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, separating layers with baking paper if stacked.

# Additional Suggestions:

01 - For a dairy-free alternative, substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk in equal quantity, ensuring it is well mixed.
02 - Dark cooking chocolate can be replaced with carob chips for a caffeine-free option; flavor and sweetness may vary.
03 - Unsweetened chocolate may be used with a preferred sweetener to reduce sugar content.
04 - Orange extract (1/4 teaspoon) or orange juice concentrate (1 tablespoon) can replace fresh grated orange peel for smoother texture and stronger flavor.