Homemade Hershey Chocolate Advent Calendar Christmas Holiday Countdown 2020 Filled With Milk Cookies 'n' Creme Chocolate For Toddlers, Children, Adults, and Kids Perfect Holiday Activity Recipe: A Healthier, Customizable Delight

Category: Candy

Introduction

The Hershey's Chocolate Advent Calendar has been a beloved holiday tradition for many, offering a daily countdown to Christmas with a delicious piece of chocolate. The 2020 version featured Milk Cookies 'n' Creme, a delightful combination of milk chocolate, creamy filling, and crunchy cookie bits. This recipe allows you to recreate this treat at home with common ingredients, offering customization and improved nutrition. By making it yourself, you can reduce sugar content, use whole ingredients, and tailor the flavors to your preference, all while enjoying the festive fun of an advent calendar.

Why Make It at Home?

Making this advent calendar at home offers several benefits. You can control the ingredients, reducing sugar and using healthier options like whole wheat flour for the cookies and natural sweeteners for the creme. It's also cost-effective and allows for customization, whether it's adjusting flavors or using different types of chocolate. Plus, it's a fun holiday activity for the whole family.

Personal Anecdote

I remember the excitement of opening each window of my Hershey's Advent Calendar as a child. When I grew older, I wanted to share that magic with my own kids but with a healthier twist. After some experimentation, I perfected a homemade version that not only tastes like the original but is also better for them. It's a tradition we now cherish, making the countdown to Christmas even more special.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:60 minutes
• **Cook Time:20 minutes
• **Total Time:80 minutes
• **Yield:24 pieces

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 1/2 cups (190g) whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (50g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 tsp (2g) baking powder
• 1/4 tsp (1g) salt
• 1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract

For the Creme Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups (190g) powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tbsp (30ml) milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Coating:

• 2 cups (250g) milk chocolate chips (higher cocoa content preferred)
• 1 tsp (5g) coconut oil or shortening

Instructions

• Bake the Cookies:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  • In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter and vanilla, mixing until a dough forms.
  • Roll out dough thinly and cut into small shapes. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden. Let cool, then crush into small pieces.

• Prepare the Creme:

• Mix powdered sugar, butter, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Adjust consistency with more milk if needed.

• Assemble the Chocolates:

• In candy molds or an ice cube tray, layer a small amount of melted chocolate, then a dollop of creme mixed with cookie crumbs. Top with more chocolate.

  • Tap molds gently to remove air bubbles. Refrigerate until set, about 15 minutes.

• Set and Enjoy:

• Once set, remove from molds. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Variations

• Spiced Creme: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the creme.
• Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk and chocolate, and vegan butter.

Pro Tips

• Temper Chocolate: For a glossy finish, temper the chocolate by melting 2/3, cooling to 82°F (28°C), then adding the remaining 1/- 2. Cookie Crunch: Ensure cookies are crispy for the best texture.
• Mold Choice: Use silicone molds for easy release.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use different cookies? Yes, try oatmeal or cinnamon cookies.
• How to reduce sugar? Use natural sweeteners like honey in the creme.
• Storage tips: Keep refrigerated for up to 3 weeks.

Serving Suggestions

• Advent Treat: Perfect for a daily countdown.
• Gift Idea: Package in decorative bags for holiday gifts.
• Party Favors: Offer as treats at festive gatherings.

Conclusion

This homemade version of the Hershey's Advent Calendar offers a healthier, customizable alternative that captures the festive spirit. With reduced sugar and whole ingredients, it's a delightful treat for all ages. Share the joy of the holiday season with this fun and delicious tradition.