Non-Alcoholic Truffles Recipe
Introduction
Indulge in the sheer decadence of Non-Alcoholic Truffles, a treat that combines the richness of cocoa, the creaminess of condensed milk, and the crunchiness of crushed digestives. These delightful bites, covered in coconut or icing sugar, promise to be a hit for all ages, perfect for a quick and easy dessert or a sweet addition to any gathering. This recipe, crafted with care, allows you to create delectable truffles in just under 30 minutes.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Recipe Category: Candy
- Keywords: Dessert, Canadian, Kid Friendly, < 30 Mins, Easy
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 195.3 kcal
- Fat Content: 7 g
- Saturated Fat Content: 4.7 g
- Cholesterol Content: 21.2 mg
- Sodium Content: 76.9 mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 30.1 g
- Fiber Content: 0.6 g
- Sugar Content: 29.2 g
- Protein Content: 4.6 g
Ingredients
To whip up a batch of these scrumptious truffles, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Digestive Biscuits: 10 pieces
- Cocoa Powder: 1 tablespoon
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Icing Sugar: 2 tablespoons (for rolling, optional)
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: 1 can (approximately 14 oz)
- Desiccated Coconut: 2 tablespoons (for mixing and rolling)
- Sprinkles or Icing Sugar: 2 tablespoons (for rolling, optional)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your own non-alcoholic truffles:
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Crush the Digestives: Place the digestive biscuits in a resealable plastic bag. Seal the bag and crush the biscuits using a rolling pin until they turn into fine crumbs. Ensure there are no large chunks left.
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Melt Butter and Mix: In a non-stick pan, pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk. Add the butter to the pan. Heat over a low flame, stirring occasionally until the butter melts completely and blends with the condensed milk.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: Once the butter and condensed milk are well combined, add the crushed digestive biscuits, cocoa powder, and half of the desiccated coconut. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
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Set the Mixture: Remove the mixture from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Once it is cool enough to handle but still warm, shape it into a compact mass. Cover the mixture with plastic wrap or a lid and let it set in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to firm up.
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Shape the Truffles: Take a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball between the palms of your hands. Continue this process until all of the mixture is used up, making approximately 15-20 truffles depending on size.
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Coat the Truffles: Roll each ball in the remaining desiccated coconut or icing sugar. Alternatively, you can use colorful sprinkles for a festive touch. Ensure each truffle is evenly coated.
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Refrigerate and Serve: Place the coated truffles on a tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for an additional 15-20 minutes to set fully. Once they are firm, serve and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
- Custom Coatings: Besides coconut and icing sugar, you can roll your truffles in finely chopped nuts, crushed candy canes (for a holiday twist), or even drizzle them with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.
- Flavor Infusion: To add a burst of flavor, consider mixing a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon into the truffle mixture.
- Storage: Store your truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month.
Culinary Insights
The Magic of Digestive Biscuits
Digestive biscuits, a staple in many households, are used in this recipe for their mildly sweet flavor and crumbly texture. Originally developed in the 19th century, these biscuits were intended to aid digestion, hence their name. Today, they are beloved for their versatility in baking and as a snack.
Condensed Milk: A Sweet Staple
Sweetened condensed milk, made by removing most of the water from milk and adding sugar, provides the truffles with their rich, creamy sweetness. It’s a key ingredient in many dessert recipes around the world due to its ability to enhance the texture and flavor of sweets.
Cocoa Powder: The Chocolate Essence
Cocoa powder, derived from cacao beans, gives the truffles their deep, chocolaty flavor. It’s essential to use good-quality cocoa powder for the best results. The bitterness of the cocoa balances the sweetness of the condensed milk, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
Desiccated Coconut: Texture and Flavor
Desiccated coconut adds a delightful texture and a hint of tropical flavor to the truffles. It’s made by drying out shredded coconut meat and is used in various desserts to add both flavor and a chewy texture.
Kid-Friendly Fun
This non-alcoholic truffle recipe is a great project for kids to get involved in the kitchen. They can help crush the biscuits, mix the ingredients, and roll the truffles into balls. Allowing children to choose their favorite coatings, like colorful sprinkles, can make the experience even more enjoyable.
Serving Suggestions
Non-Alcoholic Truffles are incredibly versatile and can be served in various settings:
- As a Dessert: Serve them as a dessert at a dinner party alongside coffee or tea.
- Gift Idea: Pack them in a decorative box or tin for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Party Treats: Use them as part of a candy buffet or as treats at a birthday party.
- Afternoon Snack: Enjoy a couple of truffles as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those who want a quick treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
- No-Bake Delight: There’s no need to turn on the oven, making this recipe ideal for warm weather or when you’re short on time.
- Customizable: The recipe allows for numerous variations in coatings and flavors, making it easy to tailor to your preferences.
- Kid-Friendly: Simple enough for children to help with, these truffles are a great way to involve kids in cooking.
Troubleshooting and FAQs
My mixture is too sticky. What should I do?
If your truffle mixture is too sticky to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for a few more minutes until it firms up enough to shape. You can also add a bit more crushed digestive biscuits to absorb some of the moisture.
Can I use unsweetened cocoa powder?
Yes, you can use unsweetened cocoa powder for a less sweet, more intense chocolate flavor. Adjust the amount according to your taste.
How do I make the truffles vegan?
To make vegan truffles, use a dairy-free alternative for the condensed milk, such as sweetened condensed coconut milk, and substitute the butter with a plant-based butter or margarine.
Conclusion
Creating Non-Alcoholic Truffles is a delightful culinary adventure that brings together the creamy richness of condensed milk, the deep flavor of cocoa, and the satisfying crunch of digestive biscuits. Perfect for any occasion, these truffles offer a quick, no-bake solution for a sweet craving, with endless possibilities for customization. Enjoy them fresh from the fridge or freeze them for a future treat; either way, they are sure to be a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re sharing them with family, serving them at a party, or savoring them as a personal indulgence, these truffles are a testament to the joy of simple, homemade confections.