Bulgarian Cocoa Dessert

The 'Cocoa Balls' dessert is a delicacy that combines simplicity with exquisite taste, perfect for enjoying with loved ones or to bring a touch of sweetness to any day. This popular dessert, easy to prepare, has a rich history and widespread popularity, thanks to its delicious combination of ingredients that blend harmoniously. Here’s how you can prepare this wonder step by step, achieving a perfect result every time.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 20-25 balls

Ingredients

- 250 g sugar
- 250 ml water
- 250 g Rama Maestro (or butter, for a richer version)
- 2 x 25 ml rum (you can use white or dark rum, depending on your preference)
- 500 g popular biscuits (or digestive biscuits for a crunchier texture)
- 20 g cocoa (pure, quality cocoa)
- 100 g coconut (for decoration and flavor)
- Sour cherries in syrup (pitted, but you can also use other fillings like nuts, unsalted peanuts, or Turkish delight)

Preparation Technique

1. Crushing the Biscuits: Start by crushing the popular biscuits. If you have a food processor, this step will be quick and easy. If not, you can place the biscuits in a sturdy bag and crush them with a rolling pin or the back of a garlic clove. The goal is to achieve a fine texture that will blend well into the mixture.

2. Preparing the Syrup: In a medium pot, add the sugar and water. Place the pot over medium heat and stir gently until the sugar completely dissolves. This step is crucial, as a well-prepared syrup will provide moisture and sweetness to the balls.

3. Adding the Ingredients: Once the syrup is boiling, add the Rama Maestro and stir well until it completely melts. Remove the pot from heat and add the crushed biscuits, stirring vigorously to avoid lumps.

4. Incorporating Cocoa and Rum: At this point, add the cocoa and rum, continuing to mix until all ingredients are perfectly integrated. The aroma of rum and the rich taste of cocoa will transform the dessert into a true delicacy.

5. Forming the Balls: On a wooden board or tray, start forming balls from the biscuit mixture. It’s important to use wet hands to prevent sticking.

6. Adding the Filling: In the center of each ball, add a cherry (or the chosen filling). This will provide a pleasant contrast between the soft texture of the biscuit and the juiciness of the cherries.

7. Decorating with Coconut: After forming the balls, roll them in grated coconut to give them an attractive appearance and a tropical taste. This will add a crunchy and flavorful note to the dessert.

8. Cooling: Place the balls on a tray and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This step is essential to allow the dessert to set and hold its shape.

Serving and Variations

The 'Cocoa Balls' dessert is perfect to be enjoyed alongside a cup of coffee or tea. You can serve it on a beautiful platter, and a garnish of fresh mint leaves will add a touch of freshness. You can also experiment with different fillings, such as blueberries or strawberries for a fruity note.

Practical Tips

- Storing the Dessert: If you don’t consume them immediately, you can store the balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Recommended Drinks: This dessert pairs perfectly with a glass of sweet wine or a refreshing fruit-based cocktail.

Nutritional Information

Each ball contains approximately 80 calories, but this may vary depending on the ingredients used. The biscuits provide carbohydrates, while cocoa and coconut offer antioxidants and healthy fats. The cherries add vitamins and minerals, making this dessert a healthier option.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of biscuits? Yes, you can try chocolate biscuits or whole grain biscuits for a healthier version.
- What if I don’t have rum? You can omit the rum or replace it with vanilla extract to maintain the sweet aroma.
- Can the balls be frozen? Yes, you can freeze them. Make sure they are well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Cocoa Balls are not just a recipe, but an experience that brings joy and satisfaction. Try this simple and quick recipe, and let yourself be carried away by the sweet aroma and intense taste of cocoa. Enjoy!