I love making these chocolate dipped orange creams because they feel festive, indulgent, and incredibly easy at the same time. The centers are soft and creamy with a bright orange flavor, and the dark chocolate coating adds just the right amount of richness. Every time I make them, they remind me of classic holiday candies, but without the stress of baking or complicated steps.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it is completely no-bake and comes together quickly with simple ingredients. The texture is smooth and melt-in-your-mouth, and the orange flavor is fresh without being overpowering. I also enjoy how elegant these look with minimal effort, making them perfect for gifting, parties, or a sweet treat straight from the fridge.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
I start by placing the cream cheese and orange extract into a mixing bowl and mixing until the texture is completely smooth. I then add 2 cups of the powdered sugar along with the milk and mix until everything is creamy and well combined.
Next, I add the remaining powdered sugar and continue mixing until a soft dough forms and pulls away from the sides of the bowl. The dough should be smooth and easy to handle. I roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in size, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
I refrigerate the balls for about 30 minutes so they firm up. Once chilled, I gently press each one with the back of a fork to flatten slightly and create a ridged pattern on top.
I melt the dark chocolate slowly, stirring often until smooth. I dip each cream halfway into the melted chocolate and return it to the parchment-lined sheet. I then refrigerate them for about one hour until the chocolate is fully set.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 24 pieces from one batch. The preparation takes around 20 minutes, and the chilling time is about 1 hour, making this an easy recipe to fit into a busy schedule.
Variations
I like to switch things up by using semi-sweet or white chocolate for dipping when I want a sweeter finish. Sometimes I add a small amount of orange zest to the dough or sprinkle it on top before the chocolate sets for extra citrus flavor. I have also experimented with other extracts like almond or cherry for different flavor combinations.
Storage/Reheating
I store these orange creams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They also freeze very well, which I find helpful during the holidays. When I am ready to serve them, I let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.
FAQs
Can I make these with a hand mixer?
I have made these with a hand mixer, but it takes more time and patience. I make sure everything is well mixed so the dough forms properly.
Do these need to be refrigerated?
I always keep them refrigerated because of the cream cheese. This helps them keep their shape and stay fresh.
Why is my dough too sticky?
When this happens, I chill the dough for a short time or dust my hands with powdered sugar to make rolling easier.
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
I like using dark chocolate for balance, but semi-sweet or white chocolate works just as well depending on how sweet I want them.
Can I freeze these candies?
I freeze them often, and they hold up very well. I thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Conclusion
I keep coming back to these chocolate dipped orange creams because they are simple, beautiful, and delicious. The creamy orange center paired with rich chocolate makes them feel special every time. This recipe has become one of my favorite no-bake treats to make for holidays, gatherings, or whenever I want something sweet without turning on the oven.
No-bake chocolate dipped orange creams with a smooth, citrusy cream cheese center and a rich dark chocolate coating, perfect for festive treats and gifting.
Total Time:1 hour 20 minutes
Yield:24 pieces
Ingredients
4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
4 cups powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk
1 teaspoon orange extract
4 ounces dark chocolate
Instructions
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and orange extract until completely smooth.
Add 2 cups of powdered sugar and the milk, mixing until creamy and well blended.
Gradually add the remaining powdered sugar and mix until a soft, smooth dough forms.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Refrigerate for about 30 minutes until firm.
Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a fork to create ridges.
Melt the dark chocolate gently, stirring until smooth.
Dip each cream halfway into the melted chocolate and return to the parchment-lined sheet.
Refrigerate for about 1 hour, or until the chocolate is fully set.
Notes
Chill the dough if it becomes too sticky to handle.
Allow candies to soften slightly at room temperature before serving.
Store refrigerated due to the cream cheese filling.
