Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cream cups combine the richness of chocolate with the bright, refreshing flavor of orange. They’re quick to assemble, visually impressive, and provide the perfect balance of sweet and tangy in every bite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
semi-sweet or dark chocolate
heavy cream
cream cheese or mascarpone
powdered sugar
orange zest
orange extract or fresh orange juice
Directions
Melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water (double boiler) or in short bursts in the microwave until smooth. Spoon or brush the chocolate into silicone or paper-lined mini muffin cups to form a thin shell. Chill in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes until firm.
In a bowl, beat the cream cheese or mascarpone until smooth. Add powdered sugar, orange zest, and orange extract or juice, mixing until fully combined. Whip the heavy cream separately until soft peaks form, then fold gently into the orange cream mixture.
Spoon or pipe the orange cream into the chilled chocolate shells. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Optionally, drizzle with additional melted chocolate or sprinkle with extra zest before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 8 to 10 mini cups.
Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with chilling time of at least 1 hour. Total time is around 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Variations
Use milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor or white chocolate for a creamier contrast. Add a sprinkle of crushed nuts, chocolate shavings, or candied orange peel on top. For a boozy twist, add a teaspoon of orange liqueur to the cream filling.
Storage/Reheating
Store Chocolate Orange Cream Cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Serve chilled. Reheating is not recommended, as it can melt the chocolate shell and alter the cream texture.
FAQs
Can I make the chocolate shells ahead of time?
Yes, they can be prepared and stored in the fridge until ready to fill.
Can I use orange juice instead of extract?
Yes, fresh orange juice works but may slightly soften the cream if too much is added.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Use dairy-free chocolate, plant-based cream, and cream cheese alternatives.
How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking?
Temper the chocolate or melt gently and handle carefully to form smooth shells.
Can I use silicone molds?
Yes, silicone molds work perfectly for easy removal.
Can I add other flavors to the cream?
Vanilla, almond, or a touch of cinnamon can complement the orange flavor.
How long do these cups last?
Up to 3 days refrigerated, best served chilled.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just double all ingredients and use additional molds.
Can I freeze them?
Freezing is possible, but the chocolate shell may develop condensation when thawed.
Are these cups suitable for kids?
Yes, omit any alcohol and they’re perfect for all ages.
Conclusion
Chocolate Orange Cream Cups are a sophisticated yet simple dessert that balances rich chocolate with zesty orange cream. Quick to make and visually appealing, they’re ideal for parties, gifts, or a special indulgence at home.
PrintChocolate Orange Cream Cups
Bite-sized chocolate cups filled with smooth, citrusy orange cream, combining rich chocolate and bright orange flavor for an elegant, indulgent treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 mini cups
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese or mascarpone, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon orange extract or 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
Instructions
- Melt chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in short bursts in the microwave until smooth.
- Spoon or brush the chocolate into silicone or paper-lined mini muffin cups to form a thin shell. Chill in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes until firm.
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese or mascarpone until smooth. Add powdered sugar, orange zest, and orange extract or juice, mixing until fully combined.
- Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then fold gently into the orange cream mixture.
- Spoon or pipe the orange cream into the chilled chocolate shells.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Optional: drizzle with additional melted chocolate or sprinkle with extra orange zest before serving.
Notes
- Use milk or white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
- Optional toppings include crushed nuts, chocolate shavings, or candied orange peel.
- Handle chocolate carefully to prevent cracking and achieve smooth shells.
- Best served chilled for optimal texture and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
