Raffaello Candies

Raffaello Candies with Sour Cherries: Quick and Simple Delight

When it comes to desserts, we all seek that recipe that delights our taste buds and brings a smile to our faces. Today, I will share a recipe for Raffaello candies with sour cherries, a dessert that not only looks good but is also incredibly delicious. These little treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a party, a family gathering, or simply a personal indulgence.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Number of servings: approx. 80 candies

Ingredients

- 500 g powdered milk
- 200 g powdered sugar
- 200 g butter (at room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- A drop of vanilla essence
- 150 g coconut (for decoration)
- 300 g coconut (for the mixture)
- 150-200 g plain biscuits (finely crushed)
- 1 jar of sour cherry compote (preferably from Raureni, pitted)

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the Mixture

1. In a large bowl, add the powdered milk, powdered sugar, and 150 g of coconut. These ingredients form the delicious base of our candies.
2. In another container, gently melt the butter in the microwave. Make sure it doesn't completely melt but becomes soft. This will help with better incorporation.
3. Add the melted butter to the powdered milk and sugar mixture. Use a mixer to blend well until all ingredients are fully combined.

Nut Types: You can also use other types of ground nuts (almonds, hazelnuts) to vary the flavor.

Step 2: Enriching the Mixture

4. Add the sour cream and vanilla essence. Mix again to achieve a uniform composition.
5. Now, to give texture and a pleasant taste, add the crushed biscuits. These will make the candies denser and easier to shape.

Biscuit Secret: Choose plain biscuits without filling to avoid altering the flavor.

Step 3: Preparing the Sour Cherries

6. Drain the sour cherries well from the compote, using an absorbent napkin to remove excess liquid. This step is essential to avoid wetting the mixture.

Step 4: Shaping the Candies

7. Slightly wet your hands with water to prevent the mixture from sticking. Take a portion of the mixture and flatten it in your palm.
8. Add a sour cherry in the center and wrap the mixture around it, forming a ball.
9. Roll the ball in white coconut, then in red coconut (if you want a color contrast, but white is sufficient).

Step 5: Chilling and Serving

10. Place the formed candies on a platter and let them chill in the refrigerator for about 1 hour. This step allows the candies to firm up and hold their shape.

Useful Tips

- How to store the candies? These candies store excellently in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for a few weeks.
- Variations: You can replace the sour cherries with other fruits, such as strawberries or raspberries, to add a touch of freshness.
- Serving suggestions: These candies pair perfectly with flavored tea or fine coffee. You can also gift them, beautifully wrapped in decorative boxes.
- Nutritional benefits: These candies contain calcium-rich ingredients (powdered milk), healthy fats (butter), and vitamin C (sour cherries). However, consume in moderation due to the sugar content.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use whole powdered milk? Yes, but skimmed powdered milk will make the candies lighter.
- What other ingredients can I add? You can add chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even a splash of cocoa to create a chocolate variant.
- How many candies can I make? With this recipe, you will get approximately 80 candies, depending on the size you shape them.

A Personal Note

This recipe for Raffaello candies with sour cherries has quickly become a family favorite. I fondly remember how we prepare them together, each choosing their favorite sour cherry. It's a recipe that not only brings a delicious taste but also creates beautiful moments with loved ones. I hope you try them and enjoy them as much as I do!

Try this simple and quick recipe for a sweet experience that will surely win you over!