November 22, 2008

Quick and Easy Edible Holiday Gifts


This time of year when we start making our holiday gift lists, it can be a bit overwhelming especially at a time when budgets are tight. I love to make edible gifts for many of the special people in my life. This afternoon I have an appointment with my hairdresser and I wanted to take him a little extra “thank you” for the holidays. This recipe was perfect because it looks impressive, sounds fancy and yet it is a super easy no-bake treat! I like to make a few batches and wrap them up in some pretty cellophane and tie it up in a nice bow.


GINGER CHOCOLATE PUMPKIN TRUFFLES

Here is a sweet treat that requires no baking, is easy enough to make with kids, and is sophisticated enough to enjoy at a holiday dinner party! Makes 48 truffles.

2 ½ cups crushed ginger snaps (about 12 ounces)
1 cup ground, toasted almonds
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
½ cup powdered sugar, sifted
1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips, melted (one minute in the microwave)
½ cup pumpkin puree
¼ cup coffee liqueur

1) Separately, pulse ginger snaps and chilled, toasted almonds until finely ground in a food processor.
2) Combine ground ginger snaps and almonds, cinnamon and ½ cup of the powdered sugar in a medium-sized bowl. With a rubber spatula, blend in the melted chocolate, pumpkin and coffee liqueur. Let stand 10 minutes to firm up.
3) Shape mixture into 1-inch balls, place on wax paper-lined platter and refrigerate until firmed, about 20 minutes.
4) Garnish with chopped, toasted almonds just before serving.



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