Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup semolina flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 cup honey
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Special Equipment Needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Double boiler
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, semolina flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
3. Add the vegetable oil and orange juice to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. Fold in the chopped walnuts.
5. Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
7. In a saucepan, combine the honey and water. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 5 minutes.
8. Dip the baked finikia into the honey syrup and let them soak for a few minutes.
9. In a double boiler, melt the dark chocolate chips and heavy cream together, stirring constantly until smooth.
10. Dip the soaked finikia into the chocolate ganache and let them cool on a wire rack.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
Oven temperature: 350°F
Serving size:
This recipe makes about 24 finikia.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 210
Total fat: 11g
Saturated fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 5mg
Sodium: 60mg
Total carbohydrates: 27g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugars: 18g
Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can substitute chopped almonds or pistachios for the walnuts.
- Instead of orange juice, you can use lemon juice or milk.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract to the dough for extra flavor.
- Drizzle melted white chocolate over the chocolate ganache for a decorative touch.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to roll the dough into small balls to ensure even baking.
- Use a double boiler to melt the chocolate to prevent burning.
- Let the finikia cool completely before dipping them into the chocolate ganache.
Storage Instructions:
Store the finikia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating Instructions:
These finikia are best served at room temperature. If you prefer them warm, you can heat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Presentation Ideas:
Arrange the finikia on a platter and drizzle with extra honey syrup and chocolate ganache. Garnish with chopped nuts or orange zest.
Garnishes:
Chopped nuts, orange zest, or powdered sugar.
Pairings:
Serve with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
Suggested Side Dishes:
These finikia are a sweet treat on their own, but you can also serve them with fresh fruit or a cheese platter.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more orange juice or oil.
- If the honey syrup is too thick, add a little more water.
- If the chocolate ganache is too thick, add a little more heavy cream.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to store the finikia in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. Also, make sure to use clean utensils and equipment when preparing the recipe.
Food History:
Finikia is a traditional Greek dessert that is often served during the Christmas season. It is made with honey, spices, and nuts, and is usually shaped into small balls or crescents.
Flavor Profiles:
These finikia are sweet and nutty with a hint of cinnamon and clove. The chocolate ganache adds a rich and decadent touch.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these finikia as a sweet treat after dinner or as part of a dessert platter.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: Greek
Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Chocolatey, Buttery, Aromatic