Raffaello candies

Raffaello Candies – Little Coconut Delights with Almonds

Who doesn't love sweets? Raffaello candies, with their fine texture and delicious taste of coconut and almonds, are a true indulgence for any sweet lover. These candies are not only a delight for everyone’s palate but also a pleasure to make. Here’s how to turn simple ingredients into little culinary masterpieces that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 50 minutes
Cooling time: 5 hours
Total time: 5 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 30 candies

Ingredients:
- 40 ml heavy cream
- 30 g butter
- 100 g white chocolate
- 170 g sweetened condensed milk
- 2 heaping tablespoons of powdered milk
- 300 g shredded coconut (plus extra for decoration)
- 30 blanched almonds (cut in half if large)
- 200 g vanilla cream wafers
- About 40 g powdered sugar with vanilla flavor (optional, for a sweeter taste)
- Vanilla extract (a few drops)
- Almond extract (a few drops)

The History of Raffaello Candies:
These delicious candies were created to combine the enticing flavors of coconut and almonds, reminding us of tropical vacations and indulgent moments. Their popularity has grown over the years, becoming an iconic dessert on festive tables and a perfect gift for loved ones.

Step by Step for Raffaello Candies:

1. Melting the chocolate:
Start by preparing a double boiler. Place a pot of water over medium heat and set a heatproof bowl on top. Add the heavy cream and chopped white chocolate. It’s important not to let the water boil, but to maintain a steady temperature to melt the chocolate evenly. Stir gently until the chocolate is completely melted.

2. Cooling the chocolate:
Once melted, remove the bowl from the heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature for at least 2 hours. It’s essential not to rush this step; it’s crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

3. Whipping the cream:
After the chocolate has cooled, use a mixer to whip the cream until it doubles in volume. A helpful tip: make sure the bowl and mixer beaters are completely dry to achieve well-whipped cream.

4. Adding the ingredients:
In another bowl, cream the butter until smooth, then add the powdered sugar (if you choose to use it) and mix well. Next, add the sweetened condensed milk and powdered milk, continuing to mix. Gradually fold in the whipped cream and mix gently to avoid losing air in the mixture.

5. Incorporating the coconut and wafers:
Add half of the shredded coconut, the vanilla and almond extracts, and the crushed wafers. Mix well using a spatula or even your hands until all ingredients are well combined.

6. Cooling the mixture:
Place the mixture in the refrigerator and let it chill for 3 hours. This will help firm up the mixture, making it easier to shape.

7. Shaping the candies:
After the mixture has cooled, take it out of the refrigerator and start forming balls about the size of a walnut. Place an almond in the center of each ball. Then roll each candy in the remaining shredded coconut, ensuring they are well coated.

8. Final cooling:
Place the formed candies in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. This resting time will allow the flavors to meld perfectly.

Serving suggestions:
These candies are perfect for serving on special occasions, alongside a cup of aromatic coffee or fruit tea. You can also beautifully package them in boxes and give them as sweet gifts to your loved ones.

Recipe variations:
If you want to experiment, you can add a few drops of orange or lemon extract to the mixture for a fresh taste. Another delicious option would be to use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate for an interesting contrast of flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- What is the best type of chocolate for this recipe?
White chocolate is ideal due to its creamy texture and delicate sweetness, but you can also experiment with milk or dark chocolate.

- How can I store Raffaello candies?
These candies are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will maintain their flavor and texture for a week.

- Can I use nuts instead of almonds?
Absolutely! You can replace almonds with pecans or hazelnuts, depending on your preferences.

Nutritional benefits:
These candies are not only delicious but also a source of energy, thanks to the coconut and almonds, which are rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. The sweetened condensed milk adds a creamy note but also caloric content, so enjoy them in moderation!

No matter the occasion for making them, Raffaello candies will surely be a hit at any table. Prepare them with love and enjoy every bite!