Caramel and chocolate candies a la Jamie
Caramel and Chocolate Candies a la Jamie
Preparation times:
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooling time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
- Number of servings: about 20 candies
Welcome to the sweet world of caramel and chocolate candies, inspired by the unmistakable talent of Jamie Oliver! These treats are perfect for indulging, gifting, or impressing guests at a party. The rich caramel perfectly blends with fine chocolate, and the hazelnuts add a crunchy note that makes every bite an unforgettable experience.
The history of these candies takes us back to the sweet traditions of caramel confections, which have evolved over time, bringing joy to people's homes. Caramel, a versatile ingredient, has been used in countless desserts, and the combination with chocolate is a classic choice that never disappoints. Now, let's get to work!
Ingredients:
- 400 g dark chocolate (high quality, with at least 70% cocoa content)
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or coconut oil)
- 280 ml liquid cream
- 400 g sugar
- 9 tablespoons of water
- 200 g hazelnuts (lightly roasted for a more intense flavor)
- 1 packet of vanilla (or vanilla essence)
- Powdered sugar and cocoa for decoration
Step by step to perfect candies:
1. Caramelizing the sugar: Start by adding the sugar and 9 tablespoons of water to a deep pan over medium heat. Stir gently, just until the sugar dissolves. Then, let the mixture boil without stirring until it turns a deep golden color. Be careful, as the caramel can become bitter if left on the heat too long.
2. Adding the hazelnuts: When the caramel reaches the desired shade, add the roasted hazelnuts and mix quickly. They will incorporate a delicious flavor and a crunchy texture into your candies.
3. Preparing the mold: Grease a Jena dish with oil, ensuring it is evenly coated to prevent sticking. Carefully pour the caramel mixture into the dish, letting it cool for 30 minutes at room temperature or in the fridge if you want to speed up the process.
4. Crumbling the caramel: Once the caramel has cooled and hardened, remove it from the dish. This can be a bit tricky. If it sticks, you can use a knife to gently pry it loose. Break it into small pieces, then place it in a blender and blend until it becomes a fine paste.
5. Melting the chocolate: In another bowl, add 200 g of dark chocolate and 280 ml of liquid cream. Place the bowl over a bain-marie (with hot water) and stir constantly until the chocolate melts completely and combines with the cream, resulting in a smooth and creamy mixture.
6. Shaping the candies: Using your hands or a spoon, form balls from the caramel paste. You can choose the desired size, but we recommend making them a bit larger to fully enjoy the taste!
7. Coating in chocolate: Dip each candy into the melted chocolate, allowing the excess to drip off. If you want additional decoration, you can roll them in cocoa or powdered sugar for an elegant look and extra flavor.
8. Final cooling: Place the candies on a tray lined with parchment paper and allow them to cool in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate hardens.
9. Serving: These caramel and chocolate candies are perfect to be enjoyed alongside a cup of fresh coffee or aromatic tea. You can arrange them on a beautiful platter and gift them as a sweet treat to your loved ones!
Useful tips:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before you start. This will facilitate the preparation process.
- You can experiment with different types of nuts or even coconut flakes to add a tropical touch.
- If you want a more intense caramel flavor, you can add a small amount of sea salt before pouring the mixture into the dish.
Frequently asked questions:
1. How can I prevent the caramel from sticking to the dish?
Ensure that you grease the dish well with oil, and if necessary, you can use parchment paper to facilitate removal.
2. What type of chocolate should I use?
Dark chocolate with a high cocoa content (70% or more) is ideal, as it provides a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the caramel.
3. Can I use other types of nuts?
Absolutely! Almonds, walnuts, or even cashews are excellent options that can add a different flavor.
Calories and nutritional benefits:
Each candy has approximately 150 calories, depending on the size and ingredients used. These candies contain antioxidants from chocolate and healthy fats from hazelnuts, making them a sweet snack that, when consumed in moderation, can be part of a balanced diet.
Now that you have the complete recipe for caramel and chocolate candies a la Jamie, all that's left is to put on your apron and enjoy the cooking process! These delights will not only tantalize your taste buds but will also bring a touch of joy to each day. Bon appétit!
Ingredients: 400 g dark chocolate 2-3 tablespoons of oil 280 ml liquid cream 400 g sugar 9 tablespoons of water 200 g hazelnuts 1 packet of vanilla powdered sugar and cocoa for decoration
