Ingredients with Measurements:
- 500g Elenski But cheese
- 200g dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Special equipment needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, beat the Elenski But cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
3. Add the chopped chocolate, chopped walnuts, honey, and vanilla extract to the cheese mixture. Mix well.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, form the cheese mixture into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake the cheese balls for 15-20 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown.
7. Remove the cheese balls from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
8. Transfer the cheese balls to a serving platter and serve immediately.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
- This recipe makes about 20 cheese balls.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 170
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Protein: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of nuts you prefer instead of walnuts.
- You can use milk chocolate or white chocolate instead of dark chocolate.
Variations:
- You can add dried fruit, such as raisins or cranberries, to the cheese mixture for added sweetness.
- You can roll the cheese balls in cocoa powder or powdered sugar before baking for a different texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the Elenski But cheese is at room temperature before mixing it with the other ingredients.
- Use a cookie scoop to make evenly sized cheese balls.
- Serve the cheese balls warm for the best flavor.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the cheese balls, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the cheese balls on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving.
- Arrange the cheese balls on a bed of fresh herbs or lettuce leaves for a colorful presentation.
Garnishes:
- Garnish the cheese balls with chopped nuts or shaved chocolate for added texture.
Pairings:
- Serve the cheese balls with a glass of red wine for a sophisticated pairing.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve the cheese balls with a side of fresh fruit or a green salad for a light and refreshing meal.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese balls are too soft, add more chopped nuts or chocolate to the mixture to firm it up.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils thoroughly before preparing this recipe.
- Store any leftover cheese balls in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
Food history:
- Elenski But is a traditional Bulgarian cheese that has been made for centuries.
Flavor profiles:
- The combination of Elenski But cheese, chocolate, and walnuts creates a rich and savory flavor with a hint of sweetness.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the cheese balls as an appetizer or dessert.
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Taste: Rich, Sweet, Chocolatey, Nutty, Decadent