Savory Chocolate Hedgehog Treats
This delightful recipe transforms basic ingredients into charming chocolate hedgehog treats. Perfect for a gathering, these morsels combine the sweetness of condensed milk with a rich cocoa flavor. A hint of brandy enhances the mix, offering a sophisticated touch to a playful treat. Each "hedgehog" features a chocolate-covered raisin snout, adding texture and a surprise burst of flavor. The whipped cream topping with vanilla undertones acts as the "spines," creating an appealing visual effect. A blend of whipped and sour cream gives a unique tangy contrast to the chocolate base. These treats require minimal baking skills yet deliver in taste and aesthetics. They're sure to be a hit with both children and adults.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 packs of classic "Selga" biscuits
- 1 pack of chocolate biscuits
- 180 g butter
- 1 can condensed milk
Spices/Sauces
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp brandy
Decoration
- 200 ml whipping cream
- 200 ml sour cream
- 150 g sugar
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- Chocolate-covered raisins
Preparation Time
Total Time: 60 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Crush Biscuits: Begin by crushing both classic and chocolate biscuits thoroughly. Use a food processor for the best results.
- Melt Butter: In a double boiler, melt the butter until fully liquefied.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the melted butter to the crushed biscuits and mix well.
- Mix With Cocoa and Brandy: Introduce the cocoa powder, condensed milk, and brandy into the mixture. Stir until the mixture achieves a play-dough-like consistency.
- Form Hedgehogs: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small hedgehog forms. Insert a chocolate-covered raisin at the front to act as the snout.
- Chill the Hedgehogs: Place the shaped hedgehogs on a tray and cool them in the fridge for about 60 minutes to firm up.
- Prepare the Cream: For decoration, combine whipping cream, sour cream, sugar, and vanilla sugar in a mixing bowl.
- Whip Until Stiff: Beat the cream mixture vigorously until stiff peaks form, suitable for decorating.
- Decorate the Hedgehogs: Use the whipped cream to create spikes across the back of each hedgehog, mimicking their quills.
- Create Eyes: Melt a bit of dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Using a toothpick or fine nozzle, dot small amounts of melted chocolate to form the eyes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the decorated hedgehogs on a serving platter. Serve fresh for optimum taste.
Tips
- Substitution: If brandy is not preferred, substitute with orange juice for a citrus twist.
- Whipping: For best results, chill the cream and bowl before whipping to achieve the perfect consistency.
- Decoration: Use additional small chocolate chips for eyes if melting chocolate is inconvenient.
Nutritions
- Calories: 250 per serving
- Protein: 3g
- Fats: 12g
- Carbs: 33g
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute biscuits with gluten-free versions to cater to dietary restrictions.
- Nutty Flavor: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these treats with a hot beverage like coffee or tea for a satisfying afternoon snack.
- Serve on decorative trays at parties for an eye-catching dessert option.
Best Places
- Café Ladurée - Known for its exquisite pastries and delightful ambiance. Location: 16 Rue Royale, Paris, France.
- Café Demel - Offers traditional Austrian sweets in a regal setting. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, 1010 Vienna, Austria.
- Café Central - Famous for its classic Viennese charm and historic significance. Location: Herrengasse 14, 1010 Vienna, Austria.
- Café Florian - A staple in Venice renowned for its elegant decor. Location: Piazza San Marco, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy.
- Café Savoy - Known for its famous brunch and classic French pastries. Location: Vítězná 5, 150 00 Praha 5, Czech Republic.
- Café de la Paix - Situated near the Opera Garnier, offering a luxurious experience. Location: 5 Place de l'Opéra, 75009 Paris, France.
- Café Tortoni - The oldest café in Argentina serving beloved local delights. Location: Avenida de Mayo 825, C1084 Buenos Aires, Argentina.
- Fitzbillies - Renowned for rich, sticky Chelsea buns. Location: 51-52 Trumpington St, Cambridge CB2 1RG, UK.
- Café Sperl - Known for a perfect blend of tradition and comfort. Location: Gumpendorfer Str. 11, 1060 Wien, Austria.
- Konditorei Zauner - Offers traditional Austrian confections since the 19th century. Location: Pfarrgasse 7, 4820 Bad Ischl, Austria.