Homemade Hershey Milk Chocolate Almonds Candy Bouquet with King Size Full Size Fun Size Snack Size Bars Perfect Gift Idea for the Chocolate Lovers Birthdays Anniversary Get Well Soon Recipe: A Healthier Twist On A Classic Favorite

Category: Candy

Introduction

Hershey's Milk Chocolate has been a beloved treat for over a century, known for its creamy texture and sweet flavor. The Hershey Milk Chocolate Almonds Candy Bouquet is a delightful arrangement of these iconic chocolates, perfect for gifting on special occasions. However, many of us would love a healthier, customizable version that still captures the essence of the original. This recipe allows you to create your own Hershey-inspired milk chocolate almonds at home, using wholesome ingredients and reducing sugar content. It's a thoughtful and delicious gift idea for any chocolate lover, offering the satisfaction of a homemade treat with improved nutrition.

Why Make It at Home?

Making your own Hershey-style milk chocolate almonds at home offers several advantages. Not only can you control the amount of sugar, but you can also customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences, whether that means adding different nuts, spices, or flavorings. Additionally, homemade chocolate tends to be fresher and free from preservatives found in store-bought versions. It's also a cost-effective and fun project that can be tailored for various occasions, making it a perfect DIY gift.

Personal Anecdote

I remember receiving a Hershey's Candy Bouquet as a gift and being thrilled by the combination of creamy chocolate and crunchy almonds. However, I wished for a version with less sugar and more natural ingredients. This inspired me to experiment with making my own milk chocolate at home, leading to a recipe that not only mimics the taste of Hershey's but also offers a healthier profile.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:30 minutes
• **Cook Time:20 minutes
• **Total Time:50 minutes
• **Yield:1 large bouquet (approx. 12-15 pieces)

Ingredients

Chocolate Base:

• 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter or cocoa butter
• 2 cups (400g) confectioners' sugar (or natural sweetener like erythritol)
• 1/2 cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons (30g) whole milk powder (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Almonds:

• 1 cup (120g) raw almonds
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) coconut oil or olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)

Optional Add-ins:

• Pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper for extra flavor

Instructions

• Prepare the Almonds:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  • Spread almonds on a baking sheet, drizzle with oil, and sprinkle with salt.
  • Roast for 10-12 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Let cool.

• Make the Chocolate Base:

• In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl over simmering water, melt the butter or cocoa butter.

  • Gradually whisk in confectioners' sugar until smooth.
  • Add cocoa powder, milk powder, and vanilla. Mix until well combined.

• Combine Chocolate and Almonds:

• Once chocolate is set but still melted, fold in roasted almonds until evenly coated.

• Shape into Bars:

• Pour the chocolate-almond mixture into molds or shape into bars on parchment paper.

  • Tap molds gently to remove air bubbles. Let set at room temperature or chill in the fridge until firm.

• Create the Bouquet:

• Arrange the chocolate bars in a decorative bouquet. Use floral tape or wrap in decorative paper for a polished look.

Variations

• Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk and chocolate.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chocolate.
• Nut Variety: Substitute almonds with other nuts like hazelnuts or pecans.

Pro Tips

• Temper the Chocolate: For a glossy finish, temper the chocolate by heating and cooling it to around 82°F (28°C).
• Quality Matters: Use high-quality cocoa for the best flavor.
• Roasting Nuts: Stir nuts halfway through roasting to prevent burning.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use different nuts? Absolutely, try hazelnuts or pecans.
• What if the chocolate doesn't set? It might be too warm; refrigerate for 10 minutes.
• How long does it last? Up to 2 weeks in an airtight container in the fridge.

Serving Suggestions

• Gift Idea: Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or get-well gifts.
• Centerpiece: Use as a centerpiece for parties or dinners.
• Snack: Enjoy as a sweet and salty snack.

Conclusion

This homemade Hershey's Milk Chocolate Almonds Candy Bouquet offers a healthier, customizable alternative to the classic treat. With reduced sugar and the option for natural ingredients, it's a thoughtful and delicious gift for any occasion. Share your creations and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade goodness!