Nutella-Filled Mascarpone Dessert Balls Recipe

Ingredients

• • Nutella: 150g (5.3oz), placed in a piping bag
  • Instant Coffee: 5g (1.5 tbsp)
  • Boiling Water: 60ml (1/4 cup)

• • Savoiardi Cookies (Ladyfingers): 200g (7oz), ground into fine crumbs
  • Powdered Sugar: 60g (2.1oz)
  • Mascarpone Cheese: 250g (8.8oz)

• Peanuts: 200g (7oz), crushed

Directions

Step 1: Freeze the Nutella

• Cover a board or plate with cling film.
• Pipe Nutella onto the cling film in small dollops and freeze for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Coffee

• Dissolve 5g instant coffee in 60ml boiling water. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Grind the Savoiardi Cookies

• • Use a food processor to grind the savoiardi cookies into fine crumbs.

Step 4: Mix the Mascarpone Base

• In a bowl, combine mascarpone cheese and powdered sugar. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Form the Dessert Balls

• • Scoop small portions of the mascarpone mixture and flatten slightly.
  • Remove the Nutella dollops from the freezer and place one in the center of each portion.
  • Wrap the mascarpone mixture around the Nutella, forming a ball.

Step 6: Coat with Peanuts

• Roll each dessert ball in the crushed peanuts, pressing firmly so they stick.

Step 7: Chill Before Serving

• Chill the dessert balls in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• • Drizzle with melted chocolate for extra indulgence.

• Serve alongside a cup of coffee or espresso for a luxurious pairing.
• Present as part of a dessert platter at parties or gatherings.

Cooking Tips

• • Ensure the Nutella is well-frozen to keep it from melting during assembly.
  • Experiment with coatings like chopped almonds, hazelnuts, or even shredded coconut for variety.
  • If the mascarpone mixture feels too soft, chill it briefly before forming the balls.

Nutritional Benefits

• • Peanuts: Provide healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E.
  • Mascarpone Cheese: Adds a rich source of calcium and energy.

Dietary Information

• • Contains: Dairy, nuts, gluten
  • Vegetarian: Yes

Nutritional Facts (per ball, approximate)

• • Calories: 180
  • Protein: 4g

• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 2g