Raffaello-style candies with coconut, dates, and dried plums

Raffaello Candies with Coconut, Dates, and Dried Plums

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Soaking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 20 candies

If you are looking for a quick, healthy, and extremely delicious dessert recipe, you have come to the right place! Today I will tell you about Raffaello candies with coconut, dates, and dried plums. These treats will not only impress anyone who tastes them, but they are also a nutritious choice, rich in fiber and antioxidants. Furthermore, they contain no added sugar, relying on the natural sweetness of the dates.

The history of these candies is fascinating: the inspiration comes from the famous Raffaello candies, which have captivated the taste buds of sweet lovers around the world. This reinterpreted recipe adds a personal touch and, most importantly, a healthy twist, transforming classic ingredients into a vegan and gluten-free version.

Necessary ingredients:
- 200 g dates (preferably soft Medjool dates)
- 100 g dried plums (preferably with no added sugar)
- 250 g coconut (divided into two portions: 200 g for mixing and 50 g for rolling)

Step by step, let’s see how we can make these wonderful candies!

1. Soaking the dates
We start by soaking the dates for about 2 hours. This step is essential to make them easier to process. You can use warm water to speed up the process. Be sure to remove the pits before soaking.

2. Preparing the mixture
After the dates have been soaked, drain them well. In a blender or food processor, add the dates, dried plums, and 200 g of coconut. If you have a small blender, it is recommended to blend in three batches to achieve a smooth paste. Blend until the ingredients form a paste that is easy to shape.

3. Shaping the balls
I suggest moistening your hands with a little water to prevent the mixture from sticking. Take a small portion of the paste and shape it into balls the size of a ping-pong ball. Continue this process until you finish all the mixture.

4. Rolling in coconut
After you have shaped the balls, take the remaining 50 g of coconut and pour it into a bowl. Roll each ball in the coconut, making sure they are evenly coated. This step will not only add an attractive appearance but will also enhance the coconut flavor.

5. Serving and storage
Once all the balls are coated, you can arrange them on a platter. These candies are excellent for serving as a dessert during dinner or for offering as a healthy snack throughout the day. You can store the candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for about a week.

Useful tips:
- You can experiment with other types of dried fruits, such as apricots or figs, to add a different flavor.
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture.
- These candies pair wonderfully with a cup of green tea or a fresh smoothie.

Nutritional benefits:
These candies are packed with nutrients. Dates are an excellent source of fiber, B vitamins, and potassium. Dried plums contribute to healthy digestion and are rich in antioxidants. Coconut, on the other hand, contains healthy fats and can help maintain energy throughout the day.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of nuts instead of coconut? Sure! You can experiment with hazelnuts or almonds for a different taste.
- Are these candies suitable for vegans? Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based, making them ideal for a vegan diet.
- Can I freeze these candies? Yes, you can freeze the candies in an airtight container, and they will retain their taste and texture.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to try this simple and delicious recipe! I assure you that every bite will be an explosion of flavors and a real delight for your taste buds. Enjoy!