Cookie and cocoa balls with cherries

Cookie and cocoa balls with cherries: a recipe from memories

Who doesn't remember childhood days when cooking with friends was a true adventure? This recipe for cookie and cocoa balls with cherries evokes those moments full of joy and creativity, being not only a delicious dessert but also a way to bring family and friends together around the table. Get ready to delight your taste buds with a quick and simple dessert that will bring a smile to anyone's face.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 20 balls

Ingredients:

- 500 g cookies (preferably plain cookies, like "Digestive" or "Petit Beurre")
- 250 g margarine
- 200 g sugar
- 250 ml milk
- 3-4 tablespoons of cherry liqueur (you can adjust to taste)
- 200 g cherries from the liqueur (or fresh cherries, if you prefer)
- Optional: 100 g walnuts (finely chopped)

A touch of history

These cookie and cocoa balls are often associated with festive moments and family traditions, being prepared in various forms over time. Known by different names, including "betivane," this dessert has evolved from the need to create something delicious from simple ingredients, remaining a favorite for many. Whether you prepare them for a party or simply to indulge yourself, these balls are always welcome.

Step by step: how to prepare cookie and cocoa balls

1. Caramelizing the sugar: Start by pouring the sugar into a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar melts and becomes liquid, being careful not to burn it. This step is essential, as the caramelized sugar will give a deep and rich flavor to the dessert.

2. Adding the margarine: Once the sugar has completely melted, add the margarine cut into cubes. Continue stirring until the margarine completely melts and combines with the caramelized sugar. There may be a slight hardening of the sugar, but don’t worry; it will return to normal in the next step.

3. Preparing the mixture: After the margarine has melted, add the milk and cherry liqueur. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous mixture. The cocoa should be added now. Proceed carefully to avoid forming lumps. This is the ingredient that will give the balls that irresistible chocolate flavor.

4. Crumbling the cookies: Use a food processor to crumble the cookies. They should become fine, but not a powder. If you don’t have a processor, you can place the cookies in a bag and crush them with a rolling pin or by hand.

5. Mixing the cookies with the mixture: Add the crumbled cookies to the cocoa mixture and mix well until the cookies are completely coated in chocolate. If the mixture seems too crumbly and doesn’t hold together, add a little melted margarine to achieve a moister consistency.

6. Forming the balls: Wet your hands with a little oil or water to prevent the mixture from sticking. Take a portion of the mixture and form balls. In the center of each ball, add a cherry (or a dried cherry if you don’t have any from the liqueur). Make sure the balls are well compacted.

7. Cooling: Place the balls on a platter and put them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This step is essential for allowing the balls to harden and maintain their shape.

8. Serving: After they have cooled, you can take them out and place them on a serving stand. These balls are perfect to be served alongside a cup of coffee or tea. If you want to make them even more attractive, you can roll them in cocoa or crushed nuts before serving.

Practical tips and variations

- Types of cookies: You can experiment with different types of cookies. Cocoa or chocolate cookies can add an extra flavor.
- Cherries: If you don’t have cherries in alcohol, you can use frozen cherries or even other fruits like raspberries or strawberries.
- Nuts: Walnut pieces are a wonderful addition, but you can also use hazelnuts or almonds, depending on your preferences.
- Chocolate: You can melt dark or white chocolate and glaze them for a more sophisticated look.
- Diet: These balls are relatively high in calories due to the sugar and margarine, so it’s best to consume them in moderation. One ball has about 90-100 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Yes, butter can be used instead of margarine for a richer taste and texture.

2. How can I keep the balls longer?
These balls store well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for about a week.

3. Can I make the balls without alcohol?
Of course! You can omit the cherry liqueur or replace it with vanilla or almond extract for another delicious flavor.

In conclusion, these cookie and cocoa balls with cherries are not only a sweet delight that will take you back in time but also a wonderful way to savor moments spent with loved ones. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or simply to indulge your taste buds, these balls are a symbol of joy and creativity in the kitchen. Try them and enjoy every bite!

 Ingredients: 1/2 kg of biscuits, 1 pack of margarine, 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of milk, 2-3 tablespoons of sour cherry liqueur, the sour cherries from the liqueur, optional walnut kernels

 Tags:  marbles cocoa biscuits sour cherries