Dark chocolate truffles with pistachios and orange zest

by | May 10, 2023 | Chocolate Information

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Indulge in a fantastic dessert recipe featuring rich dark chocolate truffles with pistachios and a zesty burst of orange. These truffles are easy to make and are perfect for any occasion, whether it be a fancy dinner party or a cozy night in. The combination of decadent flavors creates a harmonious balance of tastes that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Plus, these truffles make a great gift for any chocolate lover in your life. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and let’s get started on making these delectable treats! 

What are dark chocolate truffles?

Dark chocolate truffles are delicious little bites of pure velvety chocolate ganache. The rich, smooth texture and deep chocolate flavor of the ganache come from a mixture of melted dark chocolate and heavy cream, which is chilled until firm and rolled into balls before being coated with cocoa powder or chopped nuts.

What is the best dark chocolate for truffles?

When making truffles, the type of chocolate you use can make a big difference in the end result. Between dark, milk and white chocolate, dark chocolate is the most popular choice for truffles because of its rich, intense flavor and high cocoa butter content. Here are some options for the best dark chocolate for truffles:

  • Lindt Excellence 70% Dark Chocolate: This smooth and velvety chocolate has a rich and intense flavor profile. It’s made with higher-quality cocoa beans than your average chocolate candy bar, which gives it a slightly sweet finish that pairs well with a variety of truffle flavorings.
  • Valrhona Guanaja 70% Dark Chocolate: This chocolate has a rich, full-bodied flavor with hints of berries and coffee. Made from high-quality cocoa beans, it has a velvety texture that melts in your mouth.
  • Ghirardelli 72% Cacao intense dark: This chocolate has a bold and rich flavor profile, with a hint of vanilla and a slightly bitter finish. It has a smooth texture that works well for truffles and other chocolate desserts.

Dark chocolate truffles with pistachios and orange zest

These dark chocolate truffles are a delicious, elegant twist on classic truffles. The combination of rich, intense chocolate with the crunch of pistachios and the bright, citrusy flavor of orange zest creates an incredible taste experience.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz. dark chocolate, chopped
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup  shelled pistachios, chopped
  • 2 tbsp orange zest

Method

  • Place the chopped chocolate in a bowl.
  • In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it comes to a simmer.
  • Pour hot cream over the chopped chocolate, cover with plastic wrap and let rest. After two minutes, stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
  • Stir in the chopped pistachios and orange zest.
  • Let the chocolate mixture cool to room temperature, then cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3 hours or until firm.
  • Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, form the chocolate mixture into balls.
  • Roll the truffles in more chopped pistachios or cocoa powder, if desired.
  • Place the truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate until ready to serve.

You can store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Before serving, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. Enjoy the delicious combination of dark chocolate, pistachios, and orange zest in every bite!

We hope you enjoyed this article. For more great recipes, check out the rest of our CocoTerra blog

If you have any questions or comments, feel free to contact us through our social media channels.  We are @cocoterra_co on Instagram and Pinterest and @cocoterraco on Twitter and Facebook.

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