Homemade Hershey Bliss Creme De Menthe Meltaway Center Milk Chocolates Recipe: A Minty Fresh Twist on a Classic Treat

Introduction

Hershey's Bliss chocolates are a beloved treat known for their smooth, creamy centers and rich, velvety chocolate coatings. Among the varieties, the Creme De Menthe Meltaway Center Milk Chocolates stand out for their refreshing mint flavor encapsulated in milk chocolate. These bite-sized chocolates are perfect for satisfying both chocolate and mint cravings. Making them at home allows for customization, better nutritional control, and the joy of creating something delicious from scratch. This recipe captures the essence of the original while offering a healthier and personalized touch.

Why Make It at Home?

Crafting these chocolates at home provides several advantages. You can use higher-quality ingredients, reduce sugar content, and customize the mint intensity to your liking. Plus, homemade treats make thoughtful gifts and are cost-effective in the long run.

Personal Anecdote

I remember the first time I tried Hershey's Bliss Meltaways. It was a moment of pure delight, with the chocolate melting effortlessly, revealing a cool mint center. Inspired by that experience, I set out to recreate them at home, experimenting with various ingredients until I nailed the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:30 minutes
• **Cook Time:10 minutes
• **Total Time:40 minutes
• **Yield:24-30 pieces

Ingredients

Chocolate Coating:

• 2 cups (400g) milk chocolate chips
• 1 tbsp (15g) unsalted butter
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Mint Filling:

• 1 cup (240g) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp (15g) corn syrup (optional, for texture)
• 2-3 drops green food coloring

Instructions

• Prepare the Mint Filling:

• In a bowl, mix sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, and salt until smooth.

  • Add corn syrup if using and mix well.
  • Add green food coloring and mix until evenly colored.
  • Cover and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to firm up.

• Form the Mint Centers:

• Scoop small portions of mint mixture (about 1 tsp each) and roll into balls.

  • Flatten each ball slightly into disks.
  • Place on parchment-lined tray and freeze for 10 minutes.

• Melt the Chocolate:

• Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.

  • Stir in butter and vanilla extract.

• Coat the Mint Centers:

• Dip each mint disk into melted chocolate, coating fully.

  • Tap off excess chocolate by gently tapping the fork against the bowl.
  • Place coated chocolates on parchment-lined tray.

• Set and Enjoy:

• Let chocolates set at room temperature or refrigerate for 5-10 minutes.

  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Replace sweetened condensed milk with a low-sugar alternative like Greek yogurt with honey.
• Dark Chocolate Version: Use dark chocolate for a richer taste.
• Crunchy Mint Version: Add crushed peppermint candies to the mint filling.

Pro Tips

• Tempering Chocolate: For a professional finish, temper the chocolate by heating to 105°F (40°C), cooling to 82°F (28°C), then re-warming to 86-90°F (30-32°C).
• Texture Mastery: Ensure mint filling is firm but pliable for easy coating.
• Chill Time: Freeze mint centers before coating to prevent melting.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Alternative Ingredients: Substitute sweetened condensed milk with coconut cream and maple syrup.
• Adjusting Mint Flavor: Start with a small amount of extract and taste, adding more as desired.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
• Troubleshooting Coating: If chocolate is too thick, warm slightly. If too thin, let cool a bit.
• Scaling: Double or triple the recipe for larger batches.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy as a post-meal mint or snack.
• Use as a topping for ice cream or cupcakes.
• Pair with coffee or tea for a delightful treat.

Conclusion

This recipe offers a delicious and healthier alternative to store-bought chocolates, allowing you to savor the minty freshness and chocolatey goodness with the satisfaction of homemade quality. Share your creations and enjoy the bliss of homemade Hershey's Meltaways!