Delicious Milk and Cocoa Balls
These delightful milk and cocoa balls are a sweet treat that is both simple to prepare and satisfyingly rich in flavor. Combining the creaminess of condensed milk and butter with the deep taste of cocoa, these treats are perfect for a quick snack or a delightful dessert. They can be prepared ahead of time, making them ideal for parties or gatherings. Rolled in coconut flakes or colorful sugar decorations, they offer a playful presentation that kids and adults alike will enjoy. With the addition of toasted oats, these treats have a pleasing chewiness, offering a delightful texture contrast. These milk and cocoa balls also make a wonderful gift idea, wrapped in cute boxes or bags. You can easily adapt the recipe by adding different toppings, such as crushed nuts or cookie crumbs, for a variety of flavors. Lastly, they are a no-bake wonder, requiring just simple refrigeration to set. Try crafting these delicious bites at home and enjoy the burst of flavor with each bite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 cup dry milk powder (or any infant milk formula)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 30 ml water
- 50 g butter
- 1 tablespoon condensed milk
- 3 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup quick-cooking oats
Preparation Time
Total Time: 30 minutes (including prep and chilling time)
Step-by-Step Instruction
- Begin by pouring the water into a small saucepan and adding the sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar completely dissolves.
- Add the butter to the saucepan and continue to heat while stirring until the butter melts completely and incorporates into the mixture.
- Introduce the condensed milk to the saucepan, stirring for 2-3 more minutes until everything is well combined. Remove the mixture from heat.
- While the mixture is still warm, sift in the dry milk powder and the unsweetened cocoa powder. Stir thoroughly to ensure there are no lumps and everything is evenly mixed.
- Now, take the oats which you have previously toasted slightly in a pan, and fold them into the mixture.
- Once the mixture is smooth and well combined, spread it out on a flat surface, allowing it to cool to room temperature.
- As the mixture begins to cool, it will thicken. This is the perfect time to start forming small balls from the dough with your hands.
- Roll each ball in your desired coating—coconut flakes, colorful sugar sprinkles, crushed biscuits, wafers, or even chopped nuts for added crunch.
- Place the coated milk and cocoa balls on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper.
- Once all balls are prepared, refrigerate them to set and firm up before serving.
- These treats are best served chilled, but they can also be stored in the refrigerator for a few days if needed.
Tips
- **Adjust sweetness by tweaking the sugar amount** according to your taste preference.
- Using dark cocoa powder can give a richer chocolate flavor.
- Make sure the oats are fully toasted to enhance their flavor and aroma.
- For a healthier version, try substituting sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Nutritions
**Calories:** Approximately 120 calories per ball
**Protein:** 2g
**Fats:** 6g
**Carbs:** 15g
Variations
- Substitute quick oats with shredded coconut if you prefer a different texture.
- Incorporate dried fruit pieces like raisins or chopped dates into the mixture for added sweetness.
- For a nutty version, add a bit of peanut butter to the mix before shaping the balls.
Serving Suggestions
These cocoa balls pair excellently with a cup of espresso or iced coffee. They can also be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. Offering them as a part of a dessert platter with various dipped fruits would elevate your presentation for special occasions.
Best Places
- The Sweet Tooth - A cozy dessert haven specializing in creative sweets. Location: 123 Sweet Lane, Los Angeles, USA.
- Cocoa Delight Café - Famous for its exquisite chocolate creations. Location: 456 Chocolate Avenue, Brussels, Belgium.
- Delights Dessert Bar - Offers a unique range of fusion desserts. Location: 789 Dessert Drive, Melbourne, Australia.
- Heavenly Treats - Renowned for its international dessert menu. Location: 101 Sugar Blvd, Paris, France.
- Sweet Sensations - Combining traditional and modern sweet recipes. Location: 234 Candy St, Rome, Italy.
- Coco's Sweet Shop - Specializing in hand-crafted desserts. Location: 567 Truffle Road, Toronto, Canada.
- Choco Haven - A must-visit for chocolate lovers. Location: 890 Mousse Alley, Berlin, Germany.
- Le Petit Chocolat - Known for its artisanal chocolate treats. Location: 111 Bonbon Close, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Sweets of Istanbul - Offers a wide variety of Turkish delights. Location: 678 Pudding Row, Istanbul, Turkey.
- Gourmet Cocoa Bar - Combines gourmet ingredients with traditional recipes. Location: 345 Cocoa Crescent, New York, USA.