Chocolate Fingers

Delicious Chocolate Fingers Recipe: An Irresistible Snack

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 24-30 cookies

Recipe Introduction

Who doesn't love a dessert that fills your heart with joy? Chocolate fingers are a sweet treat, perfect for any occasion, whether it's a party, a family gathering, or simply a day when you want to indulge yourself. These cookies are easy to make and have a rich chocolate flavor, with a crispy exterior and soft interior. The history of these cookies is lost in the mists of time, but what is certain is that they have managed to capture the hearts and tastes of many.

Necessary Ingredients

- 400 g butter (soft, at room temperature)
- 200 g powdered sugar
- 100 g milk chocolate (finely grated)
- 2 egg yolks
- 100 g nuts (ground)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa
- 1 packet baking powder
- 700 g flour
- Essences: vanilla and rum (one teaspoon of each)

*For the chocolate sauce:*
- 200 g chocolate (again, preferably milk)
- 70 g liquid cream
- 1 teaspoon butter

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the ingredients: Ensure the butter is soft by leaving it at room temperature for a few hours before starting. This will allow for a more even mixing with the sugar, which is crucial for achieving a fluffy texture.

2. Sweetening the butter: In a large bowl, add the soft butter and powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer or a spatula to cream the two ingredients until the mixture becomes a smooth and fluffy cream.

3. Adding the yolks: Incorporate the two egg yolks, mixing well to fully integrate them into the composition. This step will add richness of flavor and a velvety texture.

4. Chocolate and nuts: Add the grated chocolate and ground nuts. These ingredients will give the cookies a deep flavor and interesting texture. Make sure to mix well so that each bite has a bit of each ingredient.

5. Dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour, cocoa, and baking powder. Sift the mixture to avoid lumps, then gradually incorporate it into the wet mixture, stirring continuously until you obtain a homogeneous dough ball.

6. Resting the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step is essential to improve the texture of the cookies and make them easier to shape.

7. Preparing the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (low heat). Place a baking sheet in a tray, ready to receive your delights.

8. Shaping the cookies: Once the dough has been refrigerated, take it out and form equal-sized fingers. You can give them a classic shape or play with various shapes, depending on your imagination.

9. Baking: Place the cookies on the prepared tray and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Be careful, as the baking time may vary depending on the oven. The cookies are ready when they become slightly golden at the edges.

10. Preparing the chocolate sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the chocolate, liquid cream, and butter, then heat them over low heat, stirring constantly until melted and becomes a smooth and shiny sauce. This will be the perfect topping for your cookies.

11. Serving: Once the cookies have cooled slightly, dust them with cocoa or powdered sugar for an elegant look. Then, pour the chocolate sauce over them or serve it separately, so everyone can personalize their dessert.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These chocolate fingers can be served alongside a cup of aromatic coffee or hot tea, turning them into a perfect snack for any time of the day. If you want a healthier option, you can replace the chocolate with a dark variety with a higher cocoa content, or you can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. You can also experiment with different types of nuts or add pieces of dried fruit for a fruity note.

Nutritional Benefits

Although these cookies are a sweet treat, ingredients like nuts bring important nutritional benefits, being a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Additionally, milk chocolate, when consumed in moderation, can provide antioxidants that contribute to heart health.

Frequently Asked Questions

- *Can I use margarine instead of butter?*
While margarine is an alternative, for an authentic taste and better texture, butter is preferable.

- *How can I store the cookies?*
They store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

- *Can I freeze the cookies?*
Yes, the cookies can be frozen, but it's recommended to add the chocolate sauce just before serving.

Every bite of these chocolate fingers will bring a smile to your face and turn any ordinary day into a special occasion. So, get into the kitchen, gather the ingredients, and enjoy the cooking process!