Fruit and Nut Easter Eggs

Fruit and Nut Easter Eggs Recipe with Candied Fruit and Chocolate

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 10

Introduction

Fruit and Nut Easter Eggs are a delicious and festive treat that can be enjoyed during the Easter holiday season. These sweet confections are made with a combination of sugar, syrup, cream, cherries, nuts, and dipping chocolate. They are perfect for gifting or serving at Easter gatherings.

History

The tradition of making Easter eggs dates back to ancient times when eggs were used as a symbol of fertility and rebirth. Over the years, the practice of decorating eggs has evolved into a variety of different forms, including the creation of sweet treats like Fruit and Nut Easter Eggs. These decadent candies are a popular choice for Easter celebrations and are enjoyed by people of all ages.

Ingredients

2.5 cups of sugar
1 cup of light corn syrup
0.75 cups of hot water
0.5 lb (227 g) of marshmallow cream
0.5 cup of melted shortening
0.25 cup of confectioner's sugar
2 cups of candied fruit (pineapple and cherries)
nuts
dipping chocolate

How to prepare

In a saucepan, cook sugar, syrup, and water until it reaches 265°F (129°C) on a candy thermometer.
Add marshmallow creme and beat until it becomes almost firm.
Add melted shortening, confectioner's sugar, candied fruit, and nuts.
Mix well.
Shape the mixture into eggs by hand and dip them in dipping chocolate.
This recipe makes 10 eggs that can be stored for 6 – 8 months.
Note: You can try piping a name on the egg after the chocolate has become firm.
Enjoy.

Variations

Try adding different types of nuts or dried fruits to the mixture for a unique flavor.
Experiment with different flavors of dipping chocolate, such as dark chocolate or white chocolate.
Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the dipped eggs for a sweet and salty combination.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use a candy thermometer to ensure that the sugar mixture reaches the correct temperature.

- When shaping the mixture into eggs, wet your hands with water to prevent sticking.

- Allow the eggs to set completely before dipping them in chocolate to prevent melting.

- Store the eggs in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Fruit and Nut Easter Eggs can be served as a dessert or snack during Easter celebrations. They pair well with a cup of coffee or tea.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking technique for making Fruit and Nut Easter Eggs is to carefully monitor the temperature of the sugar mixture to ensure that it reaches the correct consistency for shaping.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have cream, you can substitute with milk or half-and-half.

- If you don't have cherries, you can use dried fruit or candied peel instead.

- If you don't have dipping chocolate, you can use melted chocolate chips or candy melts.

Make Ahead Tips

Fruit and Nut Easter Eggs can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 6 – 8 months. They make a great homemade gift for friends and family.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the eggs on a decorative platter and garnish with fresh mint leaves. - Place each egg in a colorful foil wrapper for a festive touch. - Serve the eggs in a decorative Easter basket for a charming presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Fruit and Nut Easter Eggs pair well with a glass of sparkling wine or champagne for a special Easter treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Fruit and Nut Easter Eggs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 – 8 months. Do not refrigerate as this can cause the chocolate to sweat. To reheat, allow the eggs to come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Fruit and Nut Easter Eggs contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Fruit and Nut Easter Eggs contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Fruit and Nut Easter Eggs contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Fruit and Nut Easter Eggs contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Fruit and Nut Easter Eggs are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Fruit and Nut Easter Eggs contain nuts and dairy.

Summary

Fruit and Nut Easter Eggs are a sweet and indulgent treat that is high in carbohydrates and fats. They are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Fruit and Nut Easter Eggs are a delightful and decadent treat that is perfect for Easter celebrations. These sweet confections are made with a combination of sugar, syrup, cream, cherries, nuts, and dipping chocolate. They are easy to make and can be stored for several months, making them a great homemade gift or dessert option. Enjoy these delicious treats with friends and family during the Easter holiday season.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my grandmother. She was a master in the kitchen, with an array of recipes passed down through generations.

One spring day, as Easter approached, my grandmother decided to teach me how to make her famous Fruit and Nut Easter Eggs. I remember the excitement that filled me as she pulled out the ingredients and began to explain the process.

She told me that this recipe was a special one, handed down to her from her own grandmother. It was a tradition to make these sweet treats every Easter, and I was honored to be learning the recipe from her.

We started by melting chocolate over a double boiler, stirring it until it was smooth and creamy. My grandmother showed me how to carefully dip each egg-shaped mold into the chocolate, making sure to coat it evenly.

As the chocolate set, we mixed together dried fruits, nuts, and a touch of rum to create the filling for the eggs. My grandmother explained that the combination of flavors was what made these Easter treats so delicious.

Once the chocolate had hardened, we carefully filled each egg with the fruit and nut mixture, sealing them shut with more melted chocolate. My grandmother’s hands moved with such precision and care, and I tried my best to mimic her movements.

After all the eggs were filled and sealed, we placed them in the refrigerator to set. As we waited, my grandmother told me stories of how this recipe had been passed down through the generations, each woman adding her own touch to make it truly special.

When the time came to taste our creation, I was filled with anticipation. The first bite was pure bliss – the rich chocolate coating giving way to the sweet and nutty filling inside. It was a flavor unlike anything I had ever experienced before, and I savored every bite.

From that moment on, Fruit and Nut Easter Eggs became a staple in our household every Easter. My grandmother and I would spend hours in the kitchen, perfecting the recipe and making sure each egg was made with love and care.

As the years passed, I continued to make these Easter treats for my own family, passing down the recipe to my children and grandchildren. Each generation added their own twist to the recipe, making it their own while still honoring the tradition that had been passed down through the years.

And now, as I make these Fruit and Nut Easter Eggs once again, I am filled with gratitude for my grandmother and the memories we shared in the kitchen. This recipe will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the love and traditions that have been passed down through the generations.