Ingredients
- 400 g (14 oz) light cheese (ricotta or cottage cheese)
- 200 g (7 oz) dark chocolate (or milk chocolate without added sugar)
- 100 g (1 cup) grated coconut flakes
- 100 g (3/4 cup) milk powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Coconut Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the light cheese, grated coconut flakes, and milk powder. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated, and the mixture becomes smooth. This mixture should be firm enough to shape but still soft to the touch, ensuring that the bites will hold their shape once chilled.
2. Shape the Bites
Using your hands, take small portions of the coconut cheese mixture and form them into balls or bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniformity in size to ensure even chilling and coating. Place the shaped bites onto a lined baking tray or plate, making sure they are spaced apart to avoid sticking.
3. Chill the Bites
Refrigerate the bites for about 30 minutes to allow them to firm up. This step is crucial as it makes the bites easier to handle when dipping in chocolate. A well-chilled bite will also help the chocolate coating to set more quickly.
4. Melt the Chocolate
In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark or milk chocolate. You can do this over a pot of simmering water using the double boiler method, or in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as this can cause it to seize and become grainy.
5. Coat the Bites
Once the bites are thoroughly chilled, use a fork or dipping tool to dip each one into the melted chocolate, ensuring an even coating. Let the excess chocolate drip off before placing the coated bites back onto the lined tray or plate. For a professional look, tap the fork gently on the edge of the bowl to remove excess chocolate and create a smooth, even coating.
6. Set the Chocolate
Allow the chocolate-covered bites to set by refrigerating them for an additional 15-20 minutes. This will ensure that the chocolate hardens properly, giving the bites a glossy, firm finish that enhances their visual appeal and provides a satisfying snap when bitten into.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once the chocolate has fully set, serve the Coconut Cheese Bites chilled. They make a perfect treat for gatherings, parties, or simply as a snack to enjoy anytime. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness.
Nutritional Information
Servings: 20 bites
Serving Size: 1 bite
Calories: 80
Total Fat: 6 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Cholesterol: 5 mg
Sodium: 30 mg
Total Carbohydrates: 7 g
Dietary Fiber: 1 g
Sugars: 5 g
Protein: 2 g
These nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on the exact brands and types of ingredients used, especially the type of chocolate and cheese.
Tips for Success
Choice of Cheese: For a creamier texture, use ricotta cheese. For a slightly firmer bite, cottage cheese works well. Ensure the cheese is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the mixture.
Coconut Variations: You can toast the coconut flakes lightly for an added nutty flavor before mixing them into the cheese.
Chocolate Coating: Experiment with different types of chocolate, like white chocolate or flavored chocolates, to customize the bites to your taste.
Storing: Keep the bites in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, store them in the freezer for up to a month, and thaw them in the fridge before serving.