Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups of ground hazelnuts
- 2/3 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup of strong brewed coffee
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons of butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons of rum
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
Special Equipment Needed:
- Food processor
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a food processor, pulse the hazelnuts until they are finely ground.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the ground hazelnuts, sugar, coffee, cocoa powder, melted butter, rum, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until combined.
5. Using a tablespoon, scoop out the mixture and roll into balls. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the balls are lightly golden.
7. Allow to cool before serving.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: Makes 24 balls
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 80
Fat: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Protein: 2 g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Ground hazelnuts: ground almonds or walnuts
- Granulated sugar: brown sugar or coconut sugar
- Strong brewed coffee: espresso or decaf coffee
- Cocoa powder: carob powder
- Butter: coconut oil
- Rum: brandy or whiskey
- Vanilla extract: almond extract
Variations:
- Add 1/4 cup of chopped hazelnuts to the mixture before rolling into balls.
- Substitute the rum for 1/4 cup of orange juice.
- Add 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips to the mixture before rolling into balls.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to use freshly ground hazelnuts for the best flavor.
- If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
- For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate cocoa powder.
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the balls on a platter with fresh berries and mint leaves.
- Place the balls on a skewer and serve as an appetizer.
Garnishes:
- Chopped hazelnuts
- Chocolate shavings
- Powdered sugar
Pairings:
- Fresh berries
- Ice cream
- Whipped cream
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fruit salad
- Yogurt parfait
- Muffins
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the mixture is too wet, add a tablespoon of ground hazelnuts at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
- If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of liquid (coffee, rum, or orange juice) at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Food Safety Advice:
- Store the balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Do not leave the balls out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Food History:
Ballokume is a traditional Italian dessert that originated in the 19th century. It is made with ground nuts, sugar, and coffee, and is usually served during the holidays.
Flavor Profiles:
This dessert has a rich and nutty flavor with hints of coffee and cinnamon.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate or caramel sauce.
- Sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts or chocolate shavings.
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Region: Albanian