Raffaello candies with condensed milk

Delicious Homemade Raffaello Candies with Cranberries – Almond-Free

Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooling time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 20-25 candies

Who doesn’t love sweets? Raffaello candies are a renowned delight, but what do you do when you can’t consume almonds from the original recipe? I invite you to discover an easy-to-make version, full of flavors, that will pamper your taste buds: Homemade Raffaello Candies with Cranberries! These candies are not only quick to prepare but also extremely delicious, making them a perfect alternative for those with allergies or simply for those who prefer other types of fillings.

The story of these candies intertwines with sweet childhood memories, where each bite brought a splash of happiness. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, these delights will bring smiles to your face. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

- 400 ml full-fat milk (3.5%)
- 400 g powdered sugar
- 1/2 vanilla bean
- 40 g butter (82%)
- 250 g coconut + 50 g for rolling
- Cranberries (approximately 20-25 pieces)
- 50 ml Port wine or another sweet wine

Preparation Steps

1. Hydrating the cranberries
Start by placing the cranberries in a small bowl and pouring the Port wine over them. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and microwave for one minute. This step is essential to enhance their flavor and make them softer. After a minute, stir them occasionally and let them hydrate.

2. Preparing the condensed milk cream
In a saucepan, combine the full-fat milk, powdered sugar, diced butter, and the split vanilla bean. Place the saucepan over high heat and stir constantly until it reaches a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, stirring continuously for 10-12 minutes, until the mixture becomes slightly creamy. It is important to stir well to prevent sticking to the bottom of the saucepan.

3. Cooling the cream
Once you have a creamy consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool completely. You will obtain approximately 600 g of delicious cream that will flavor your candies.

4. Mixing with coconut
In a large bowl, place 400 g of the cooled cream and add the coconut. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition. At this step, you can adjust the amount of coconut according to your preferences.

5. Forming the candies
With slightly damp hands, take a small portion of the mixture and form balls the size of a walnut. In the center of each ball, place 1-2 hydrated cranberries. Make sure to cover them well with the coconut cream.

6. Rolling in coconut
After you have formed all the balls, take the remaining 50 g of coconut and roll each candy in it. This step will give them an attractive appearance and a crunchy texture.

7. Cooling and serving
Place the candies in a covered container and keep them in the refrigerator until serving. It is recommended to let them cool for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Practical Tips

- Choose the wine carefully: Port wine adds a distinct note, but you can also experiment with other types of sweet wine, such as Madeira wine or a sweet white wine.
- Alcohol-free version: If you prefer a non-alcoholic recipe, you can replace the wine with water or cranberry juice for a fruity taste.
- Perfect texture: Make sure to stir the condensed milk cream constantly to achieve a uniform consistency without lumps.
- Personalize the filling: Instead of cranberries, you can use pieces of candied fruit or even fine chocolate for a different taste.

Nutritional Benefits

These candies are rich in energy due to the coconut content, which provides healthy fats. Additionally, cranberries are known for their antioxidant properties and can contribute to good heart health. Of course, moderation is key, but these delights can turn any moment into a sweet experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of sugar?
Yes, you can use brown sugar or coconut sugar for a deeper flavor, but this will also change the color of the cream.

How can I store the candies?
These candies store well in the refrigerator for about a week, but they are most delicious if consumed within the first few days after preparation.

Can I freeze the candies?
Yes, you can freeze the candies! Make sure to keep them in an airtight container. When thawing, let them sit in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These Homemade Raffaello Candies with Cranberries are perfect for serving at parties, family gatherings, or simply as a personal treat. You can pair them with a cup of flavored coffee or a warm tea to balance their sweetness. They are also ideal for gifting, beautifully wrapped in elegant boxes.

I encourage you to try this simple and delicious recipe, which will surely become a favorite in your home! Bon appétit!