Candies from leftovers

Leftover Candies - A Delicacy From the Heart of Your Home

Total Preparation Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes (30 minutes prep + 1 hour chilling)
Servings: Approximately 25-30 candies

Who doesn't need a clever recipe to transform leftover cookies and muffins into a delicious dessert? This leftover candy recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor, making it a fantastic way to reduce food waste. Plus, it's a fun activity for the whole family, perfect for spending time together in the kitchen.

A Short Story About Leftover Candies

Leftover candies are a perfect example of culinary creativity. Originating from the tradition of using leftover ingredients to create new delights, these little treats have become popular in many cultures. They remind us that every ingredient has a story, and transforming them into something new and tasty is an art we can easily master.

Ingredients

- 200 g leftover cookies (ideally Easter cookies, but you can use any type of cookies)
- 2 muffins with candied cherries (or muffins of your choice)
- 140 g lightly toasted coconut (for an intense and aromatic flavor)
- 150 g powdered sugar
- 100 g butter, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon coconut extract
- 50 ml milk

Preparing the Candies

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by breaking the cookies and muffins into smaller pieces. Use a food processor to achieve a fine texture, but you can also do it manually with a rolling pin or by crushing with your hands. Make sure there are no large pieces left so that the mixture is easy to shape.

2. Mixing the Mixture
In a large bowl, add the crumbled cookies and muffins. Add the toasted coconut, powdered sugar, softened butter, vanilla and coconut extracts, as well as the milk. Use a spatula or a large spoon to mix all the ingredients until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. It may seem sticky, but that's exactly what you want!

3. Chilling the Mixture
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill for 1 hour. This step is essential as the mixture will harden, making it easier to form the candies.

4. Shaping the Candies
After the 60 minutes have passed, take the mixture out of the fridge. Use your hands to form balls about 2-3 cm in diameter. If you prefer, you can use an ice cream scoop to get uniform portions.

5. Decorating
Place the remaining 70 g of coconut in a small bowl. Roll each ball in the coconut, covering it evenly. You can also decorate them with melted chocolate, chopped nuts, or even chocolate chips for a more attractive appearance.

6. Final Chilling
Place the candies on a tray lined with parchment paper and let them chill for another 30 minutes. This final step will help them firm up and hold their shape.

Serving Suggestions

Leftover candies can be served as a delicious dessert at a party or as a sweet snack between meals. They pair excellently with a cup of coffee or tea, and for a touch of elegance, you can present them in a beautifully decorated box. You can also include them in a gift basket of homemade treats as a special gift for loved ones.

Possible Variations

- Different Cookies: Instead of Easter cookies, you can use cocoa cookies or chocolate biscuits for a different flavor.
- Flavoring Additives: Experiment with different extracts, such as almond or rum, to add another layer of flavor.
- Including Fruits: Add pieces of dried fruit, such as raisins or cranberries, to the mixture for extra sweetness and color.

Nutritional Benefits

These leftover candies are a good source of carbohydrates from cookies and muffins, while coconut adds a dose of fiber and healthy fats. The use of powdered sugar can be adjusted according to personal taste, and butter provides a creamy texture and rich flavor. Overall, they are a treat that, when consumed in moderation, can fit into a healthy lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of nuts?
Yes, you can use ground almonds, hazelnuts, or even pecans to add a different texture.

How long do these candies last?
In an airtight container, the candies can be stored in the fridge for 5-7 days.

Can I freeze the candies?
Yes, you can freeze the candies. Make sure to place them in an airtight container and divide them into individual portions for easy defrosting.

These leftover candies are not only an effective way to reduce food waste but also a delicacy that will bring joy to your tables. So, don’t hesitate and prepare your ingredients to try this simple and delicious recipe!