Homemade Ferrero Rocher Mon Cheri Gourmet Fine Chocolate Pack in an Affinity Foods Box Recipe: Cherry Cream Delights with a Crunchy Hazelnut Coating

Category: Confections

Introduction

Ferrero Rocher Mon Cheri chocolates are a beloved treat known for their rich, creamy centers and crunchy hazelnut coatings, encasing a sweet cherry. These bite-sized delicacies have captured the hearts of many with their perfect balance of textures and flavors. Making them at home allows for customization, healthier options, and cost-effectiveness. By using fresh ingredients and adjusting sweetness levels, you can enjoy these chocolates with a clearer conscience.

Why Make It at Home?

Creating homemade versions offers the freedom to tweak ingredients, reducing sugar content and using higher-quality components. This not only enhances the taste but also aligns with dietary preferences, making it a delightful and healthier indulgence.

Personal Anecdote

Recall the joy of unwrapping a Ferrero Rocher and savoring the initial crunch giving way to creamy richness. Replicating this at home brings that same excitement, with the added satisfaction of knowing exactly what goes into each piece.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:30 minutes
• **Cook Time:15 minutes
• **Total Time:45 minutes
• **Yield:12 pieces

Ingredients

For the Hazelnut Cream:

• 1 cup (120g) hazelnuts
• 2 tablespoons (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons (30g) powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) milk or milk alternative

For the Cherry Centers:

• 12 maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry

For the Chocolate Coating:

• 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)

For the Crunchy Coating:

• 1/2 cup (60g) hazelnuts, finely chopped

Instructions

• Prepare the Hazelnut Cream:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roast hazelnuts for 10-12 minutes until fragrant. Let cool, then grind into a paste.

  • Mix the paste with cocoa, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth. Refrigerate for 15 minutes.

• Assemble the Centers:

• Roll the hazelnut cream into 12 small balls. Flatten each slightly and place a cherry in the center, folding the cream around it to seal.

• Coat with Chocolate and Hazelnuts:

• Melt chocolate in a double boiler or microwave. Dip each cherry-cream piece into the chocolate, then roll in chopped hazelnuts. Let set on parchment paper.

• Set and Store:

• Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Use less powdered sugar and dark chocolate.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne to the cream.
• Liqueur Infusion: Soak cherries in a cherry liqueur for enhanced flavor.

Special Equipment

• Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
• Food processor for grinding hazelnuts
• Parchment-lined tray

Pro Tips

• Chill Before Coating: Refrigerate cream-covered cherries to prevent melting.
• Dry Cherries: Pat cherries dry to avoid moisture issues.
• Toast Hazelnuts: Lightly toast nuts for better flavor.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh cherries? Yes, but they may have more moisture; pat dry thoroughly.
• What if the chocolate is too thick? Reheat gently or add a touch of shortening.
• How to make them last longer? Store in the fridge up to a week.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy as a sweet treat or gift.
• Pair with coffee or wine for a sophisticated dessert.

Conclusion

This recipe captures the essence of Ferrero Rocher Mon Cheri with a homemade touch, offering a delicious and customizable treat. Share your creations and savor the joy of homemade confectionery!