Raffaello candies

Rafaelo candies are a delicacy that brings a smile to anyone's lips. These little sweet jewels, with a creamy center and a crunchy texture, evoke a sense of well-being and pleasant memories. Although their recipe may seem simple, the secret lies in choosing quality ingredients and the love with which they are prepared.

Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rest time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 20 candies

Ingredients:
- 150 g vanilla powdered sugar
- 200 g milk powder
- 200 g coconut + extra for decoration
- 100 g butter (at room temperature)
- 2 sheets of vanilla wafers (crumbled)
- 100 g whole almonds (raw)

Useful tips and suggestions before starting the recipe:
1. Vanilla powdered sugar: If you can't find vanilla powdered sugar, you can use regular powdered sugar and add a few drops of vanilla essence for a similar taste.
2. Coconut: Choose quality coconut, as this will influence the final flavor of the candies. You can use unsweetened coconut for a more intense taste.
3. Almonds: Make sure the almonds are whole and unsweetened. If you prefer, you can also use hazelnuts or walnuts instead of almonds.
4. Wafers: Opt for vanilla wafers, as they add a subtle flavor and a delicious crunchy texture.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the base mixture:
In a large bowl, add the soft butter and vanilla powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer to combine them until you achieve a fluffy and homogeneous foam. This step is essential to ensure a creamy texture for the candies.

2. Adding dry ingredients:
Next, add the milk powder, coconut, and crumbled wafers. Mix well with a spatula until all ingredients are completely integrated. At this step, it is important to be patient and mix well to obtain a homogeneous paste.

3. Resting the mixture:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the mixture to firm up, making it easier to shape.

4. Shaping the candies:
Once the mixture has firmed up, take the bowl out of the fridge. With wet hands, take a small portion of the paste (about a teaspoon) and shape it into a ball. In the center of each ball, place a whole almond and reshape to hide the almond. Repeat the process until all the mixture is used up.

5. Decorating:
Place the coconut in a bowl and, one by one, roll each ball in the coconut, ensuring it is evenly coated. This step not only adds an attractive look but also an extra delicious taste.

6. Serving:
Arrange the Rafaelo candies on a nice platter and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. These candies are perfect for gifting or serving at a party.

Useful tips:
- Variations: You can experiment with various flavors by adding a few drops of almond essence or even a bit of cocoa for a chocolatey version.
- Storage: These candies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them.
- Combinations: Rafaelo candies are excellent alongside a cup of flavored coffee or a fruit tea. You can also serve them with a glass of cold milk, making for the perfect snack delight.

Nutritional benefits:
Rafaelo candies are a quick source of energy due to the sugar content and healthy fats from coconut and almonds. Nuts are rich in protein and vitamins, helping to maintain a balanced diet. However, it is advisable to consume them in moderation, as they have a relatively high caloric content. Each candy has about 100 calories, depending on the serving size.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I make Rafaelo candies without milk powder?: Yes, you can replace milk powder with cashew powder or other vegan alternatives, although the taste will be different.
- How can I make the candies less sweet?: You can reduce the amount of powdered sugar added or choose a natural sugar, such as stevia, for a healthier version.

Rafaelo candies are not just a sweet treat but also an opportunity to spend quality time in the kitchen with loved ones. Preparing them can become a joyful tradition, and each bite will bring smiles and unforgettable memories. Enjoy!