Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups of walnuts
- 1 cup of honey
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 8 oz of dark chocolate chips
Special Equipment Needed:
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the walnuts on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 8-10 minutes, until fragrant and lightly browned.
3. In a saucepan, combine the honey, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes bubbly.
4. Add the toasted walnuts to the honey mixture and stir until the nuts are evenly coated.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and pour the walnut mixture onto it. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly, about 1/2 inch thick.
6. Let the mixture cool and harden for 30 minutes.
7. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
8. Cut the cooled walnut mixture into small squares or diamonds.
9. Dip each piece of walnut candy into the melted chocolate, using a fork to lift it out and tapping off any excess chocolate.
10. Place the chocolate-dipped gozinaki on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them cool and harden for at least 30 minutes.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour
Temperature:
Oven temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Microwave temperature: Medium heat
Serving size:
This recipe makes about 20-25 pieces of chocolate-dipped gozinaki.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 180
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 30mg
Carbohydrates: 23g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 20g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of nuts instead of walnuts, such as almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts.
- Maple syrup can be used instead of honey.
- Milk chocolate or white chocolate can be used instead of dark chocolate.
Variations:
- Add dried fruit, such as raisins or cranberries, to the walnut mixture before spreading it on the baking sheet.
- Sprinkle sea salt on top of the chocolate-dipped gozinaki before the chocolate hardens.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the honey mixture for a spicy twist.
Tips and Tricks:
- Use a sharp knife to cut the hardened walnut candy into pieces.
- If the honey mixture starts to harden before you've finished coating the walnuts, reheat it over low heat until it becomes liquid again.
- Use a double boiler to melt the chocolate for a smoother consistency.
Storage Instructions:
Store the chocolate-dipped gozinaki in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating Instructions:
These candies do not need to be reheated.
Presentation Ideas:
Arrange the chocolate-dipped gozinaki on a platter or in a decorative box for a beautiful presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped nuts or sea salt on top of the chocolate-dipped gozinaki for a finishing touch.
Pairings:
Serve these candies with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
Suggested Side Dishes:
These candies can be served as a dessert or snack on their own.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the honey mixture becomes too thick, add a splash of water to thin it out.
- If the chocolate becomes too thick, add a teaspoon of vegetable oil to thin it out.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to use fresh ingredients and wash your hands and utensils thoroughly before preparing this recipe.
Food History:
Gozinaki is a traditional Georgian candy made with nuts and honey. It is often served during the New Year's celebrations.
Flavor Profiles:
This recipe has a sweet and nutty flavor, with a hint of cinnamon and vanilla. The dark chocolate adds a rich and slightly bitter taste.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these candies as a sweet treat after a meal or as a snack during the day.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: Georgia
Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Chocolatey, Sticky