Coconut candies with cranberries and pistachios

Coconut Candies with Cranberries and Pistachios

Are you looking for a quick and delicious recipe that will bring a smile to your loved ones' faces? I invite you to discover the wonderful recipe for coconut candies with cranberries and pistachios. These little delights are not only easy to prepare, but they also offer a fascinating combination of flavors and textures, making them perfect for serving on any special occasion or simply as a sweet snack during the day.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12-15 candies

Necessary ingredients

- 100 g shredded coconut (ideally, use unsweetened shredded coconut for an authentic taste)
- 50 g butter or Rama margarine (you can opt for margarine if you prefer a lighter option)
- 50 g powdered sugar (this provides a fine sweetness and a velvety texture)
- 4 tablespoons of powdered milk (for added creaminess and flavor)
- 2 tablespoons of cranberry jam (if you prefer, you can use another type of jam, but cranberries offer a splendid tart note)
- 3 tablespoons of chopped pistachios (this adds crunch and an attractive color contrast)

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients in a clean workspace. It is essential to have everything at hand to facilitate your cooking process.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded coconut, butter or margarine (make sure it is at room temperature for easy incorporation), powdered sugar, and powdered milk. Using a spatula or a wooden spoon, mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition.

3. Shaping the balls: Once the mixture is well homogenized, coat your hands with a little oil or butter to prevent sticking. Take a portion of the mixture and form balls the size of walnuts. Repeat this process until you finish all the mixture.

4. Decorating the candies: After you have formed the balls, it's time to decorate them! Place each ball on a plate and add a teaspoon of cranberry jam on each. Then, sprinkle the chopped pistachios on top for a crunchy note and a burst of color.

5. Cooling: Cover the plate with candies with plastic wrap and let them chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up and cool well.

6. Serving: Once the candies have cooled, they are ready to be served! You can arrange them on a nice platter and offer them alongside a cup of aromatic tea or coffee. These little delights are also ideal for gifting, making them a perfect choice for your friends and family.

Useful tips and variations

- If you want an even more intense coconut flavor, you can add a few drops of vanilla extract or coconut essence to the mixture.
- Instead of cranberries, you can use other dried fruits, such as raisins or dried apricots, to vary the recipe.
- The candies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will maintain their freshness for up to a week.
- If you are looking for a vegan option, you can replace the butter with a plant-based margarine and use soy powdered milk.

Nutritional information

These coconut candies are not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Coconut is rich in fiber and healthy fats, which can support heart health, while cranberries are renowned for their antioxidant content. Pistachios, on the other hand, are an excellent source of protein and vitamins, adding nutritional value to these treats.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use fresh coconut instead of shredded coconut?
Yes, but make sure it is well-dried to avoid adding moisture to the mixture.

2. How can I make the candies sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add a little more powdered sugar to the mixture or use a sweeter jam.

3. Is it possible to make the candies without sugar?
Yes, you can use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but you will need to adjust the amount of powdered milk to achieve the desired consistency.

Coconut candies with cranberries and pistachios are a simple yet extremely satisfying recipe that will bring you joy and a burst of flavors in every bite. So gather the ingredients and let’s enjoy these delicious sweets together!