Print

Homemade Chocolate Orange Sticks Recipe

4.9 from 115 reviews

Delightfully tangy and sweet homemade chocolate orange sticks combine a luscious orange jelly center coated in smooth dark chocolate. These elegant treats are perfect for gifting or serving at dessert tables, offering a refreshing citrus flavor paired with rich chocolate.

Ingredients

Scale

Orange Jelly:

  • 1 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed or store-bought
  • 2 tablespoons orange zest
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin
  • ¼ cup water

Chocolate Coating:

  • 1½ cups dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil or butter (optional, for shine)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Jelly: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the water and let it bloom for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, heat the orange juice, zest, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until the mixture is steaming. Add the bloomed gelatin to the warm liquid and stir thoroughly until the gelatin is fully dissolved.
  2. Set the Jelly: Pour the jelly mixture into a parchment-lined loaf pan or small baking dish. Refrigerate for about 4 hours or until it is completely firm and set.
  3. Cut into Sticks: Once the jelly has set, carefully remove it from the pan and slice it into stick shapes using a sharp knife. Use a paper towel to gently pat the sticks dry and remove any excess moisture for better chocolate adherence.
  4. Melt the Chocolate: Melt the chocolate chips together with coconut oil or butter (if using) in a heatproof bowl placed over simmering water, stirring continuously until smooth. Alternatively, melt in short bursts in the microwave, stirring between intervals to prevent burning.
  5. Dip and Set: Dip each orange jelly stick halfway or fully into the melted chocolate, then place them on parchment paper to set. Chill in the refrigerator until the chocolate coating becomes firm and solid.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: These candies can be prepared up to one week in advance and stored in the refrigerator or a cool place to maintain freshness.
  • Customizing the Flavor: Substitute orange juice and zest with lemon or grapefruit for a different citrus profile. Milk chocolate can be used instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter taste.
  • Serving Suggestions: Perfect when served with tea, included on dessert trays, or elegantly wrapped in clear bags with ribbons as festive gifts.
  • Allergy-Friendly Options: Use dairy-free chocolate chips to make this recipe vegan and dairy-free.
  • Storage Tips: Store finished chocolate orange sticks in an airtight container separated by layers of parchment paper at room temperature in a cool environment or refrigerated for up to 7 days.

Keywords: chocolate orange sticks, homemade candy, orange jelly, chocolate coating, citrus chocolate treats, no-bake dessert