Homemade chocolate with nuts

Homemade Chocolate with Nuts – a Sweet Delicacy Full of Nostalgia

Homemade chocolate is one of those recipes that reminds us of childhood, of moments spent with loved ones, when every bite was a joy. This simple yet delicious recipe will captivate you with its intense cocoa aroma and the crunchy taste of nuts. I invite you to discover how to prepare this delicacy at home, step by step, and enjoy a quick dessert that blends tradition with flavor.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooling time: 12 hours (ideally overnight)
Total time: 12 hours and 20 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Ingredients
- 125 ml water
- 250 g sugar
- 125 g margarine (good quality for a richer taste)
- 400 g powdered milk (choose whole powdered milk for a finer texture)
- 2 and a half tablespoons of cocoa (preferably high-quality cocoa)
- 1 teaspoon of rum essence (optional, but recommended for an extra touch of flavor)
- 1 cup walnut halves (ideally freshly roasted to enhance the flavor)

The Story of the Recipe
This homemade chocolate with nuts recipe has deep roots in the culinary traditions of many families, often prepared during holidays or for special occasions. It is a no-bake dessert that can be customized according to individual preferences by adding other ingredients such as raisins, hazelnuts, or even coconut flakes.

Preparation Techniques and Helpful Tips
1. Roasting the nuts: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Spread the walnut halves on a baking tray and roast them for 5-10 minutes until golden brown. This step is essential to intensify the flavor and add a crunchy taste to your chocolate.

2. Sifting the ingredients: Sifting the powdered milk and cocoa twice is not just a formality, but an important step to avoid lumps. This will ensure a smooth and even texture for the chocolate.

3. Preparing the syrup: In a pot, add water and sugar. Place the pot on the stove over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. This syrup will form the base for the chocolate, so make sure it is homogeneous.

4. Adding the margarine: Once the sugar is fully dissolved, remove the pot from the heat and add the margarine. Stir continuously until it is completely melted.

5. Incorporating the dry ingredients: Gradually add the powdered milk and cocoa to the syrup mixture, stirring vigorously with a whisk or wooden spoon. It is important not to stop stirring to avoid lumps. If you have a helper, it's ideal for one to pour in the dry ingredients while the other stirs.

6. Pouring the mixture: Prepare a baking dish (not too large) by lining it with plastic wrap. Once the mixture is smooth, pour it into the dish and spread it out with a spatula to achieve a smooth surface.

7. Adding the nuts: Chop the roasted walnuts into small pieces and evenly sprinkle them over the surface of the chocolate. Gently press down with the spatula to integrate them into the mixture.

8. Cooling: Cover the chocolate with plastic wrap and let it cool, ideally overnight. This step is essential as it helps the chocolate to set and achieve the perfect texture.

Serving
Once the chocolate has set, cut it into rectangular or square pieces. You can serve it plain or with a drizzle of rum essence on top for an extra flavor boost. This homemade chocolate pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or aromatic tea, making it an ideal snack for relaxing moments.

Customized Variation
To add a touch of originality, you can replace the walnuts with roasted hazelnuts or add coconut flakes to the chocolate mixture. These variations will bring a delicious new flavor dimension.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Why do lumps form in the mixture? Lumps usually occur due to insufficient mixing or adding dry ingredients too quickly. Make sure to stir constantly to avoid this.
- Can I use butter instead of margarine? Yes, you can use butter for a richer taste, but make sure it is at room temperature for easier incorporation.
- What other ingredients can I add? You can add raisins, dates, or even pieces of white chocolate to diversify the flavor.

Nutritional Benefits
This homemade chocolate with nuts is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and vitamins, while cocoa is rich in antioxidants. In moderation, this delicacy can be part of a balanced diet.

Enjoy the cooking process, the smell of chocolate wafting through the house, and every bite of this homemade chocolate with nuts! I encourage you to share this recipe with friends and family to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!