My Mom's Famous Orange Creamsicle Truffles
These dreamy little bites of nostalgia take me right back to summer days and orange popsicles. I've perfected this recipe over countless batches and they never fail to disappear at parties. The best part? They're surprisingly simple to make.
Why You'll Love These Truffles
The magic happens when smooth white chocolate meets fresh orange zest creating that classic creamsicle flavor we all grew up loving. These aren't just treats they're little bites of happiness that look as beautiful as they taste.
Let's Gather Your Ingredients
- • The Base - White Chocolate: 8 oz Ghirardelli Premium Baking Bars they melt like silk
- • For Richness - Butter: 2 tablespoons unsalted make sure it's nice and soft
- • Fresh Flavor - Orange Zest: 2 tablespoons from one medium orange the fresher the better
- • Creamy Touch - Heavy Cream: 3 tablespoons this makes them melt in your mouth
- • Extra Punch - Orange Extract: 1 teaspoon for that perfect creamsicle taste
- • Pretty Color - Food Coloring: Just a few drops of oil based orange to make them look perfect
- • Final Touch - Powdered Sugar: Enough for rolling keeps them from sticking and looks lovely
Making The Magic Happen
- Start With Flavor
- Warm your butter and orange zest together until your kitchen smells amazing. Let it cool a bit.
- Mix It Together
- Melt your white chocolate slowly in the microwave stir in your butter mix cream and that orange extract until everything's smooth and beautiful.
- Let It Rest
- Cover your bowl and pop it in the fridge for about 2 hours until it's firm enough to roll.
- Shape Your Truffles
- Roll them into cute little balls and give them a quick chill in the freezer.
- Dress Them Up
- Roll them in powdered sugar or dip in chocolate if you're feeling fancy.
A Little Truffle History
Did you know chocolate truffles were born in France back in 1895? They got their name because they look just like those fancy mushrooms that grow underground. Pretty clever right?
Keeping Them Fresh
Keep your truffles in an airtight container in the fridge they'll stay perfect for two weeks. Want them to last longer? Pop them in the freezer for up to three months. Pro tip use non dissolving powdered sugar for the coating it stays prettier longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why strain the orange zest mixture?
Straining removes the zest pieces while keeping the orange oils and flavor, creating a smooth truffle texture.
- Can I use regular food coloring?
Use only oil-based food coloring as water-based types can make the chocolate seize up.
- Why do my truffles need to chill twice?
The first chill firms the mixture for shaping, while the second sets the finished truffles for perfect texture.
- How should I store these truffles?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Let soften slightly before serving.
- Can I freeze these truffles?
Yes, they freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and re-roll in powdered sugar if needed.