Toffee Pop Balls

Toffee Pop Balls Recipe from New Zealand with Cream Cheese, Bailey's Irish Cream, Icing Sugar, and Coconut

Region / culture: New Zealand | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Toffee Pop Balls are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that is perfect for any occasion. These bite-sized balls are made with a combination of toffee pop biscuits, cream cheese, icing sugar, and coconut, creating a sweet and creamy dessert that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

History

Toffee Pop Balls are a popular dessert in the UK, where toffee pop biscuits are a common ingredient in many sweet treats. This recipe puts a unique twist on the classic toffee pop biscuit by combining it with cream cheese and coconut to create a rich and indulgent dessert that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

1 (250 g) packet of chilled toffee pop biscuits (or use the same quantity of Twix bars or any creamy to biscuit if in the UK)
250 g full fat cream cheese
0.25 cup icing sugar
3 tbsp bailey's irish cream (optional)
0.5 cup desiccated coconut

How to prepare

Process the biscuits in a food processor until they resemble small, chunky bits of biscuit.
Ensure that the crumbs are not too fine.
If you do not have a food processor, you can place the biscuits in a bag and crush them with a rolling pin. This can be quite therapeutic after a long day at work!
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, icing sugar, and Baileys (if using) until well combined and creamy.
Add the ground biscuits to the cream cheese mixture and mix until well incorporated.
Gradually add the coconut, a little at a time, until the mixture reaches a relatively stiff consistency.
The mixture should still have a slightly gooey texture as it will firm up in the fridge.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for approximately 2-4 hours, or until the mixture becomes firm.
Place the remaining coconut in a separate bowl.
Using a teaspoon, scoop small amounts of the biscuit mixture from the bowl and roll them into balls.
Roll the biscuit balls in the coconut until coated.
Store the prepared balls in a container in the fridge until ready to use.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the mixture for added texture and flavor.
Drizzle melted chocolate over the balls for an extra indulgent touch.
Use different flavored biscuits or cream cheese for a unique twist on the recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to process the biscuits until they are small, chunky bits to give the balls a nice texture.

- If you don't have a food processor, you can crush the biscuits in a bag with a rolling pin.

- Refrigerate the mixture for at least 2-4 hours to allow it to firm up before rolling into balls.

- Roll the balls in coconut for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Toffee Pop Balls can be served as a dessert at a party or gathering, or enjoyed as a sweet treat with a cup of tea or coffee.

Cooking Techniques

Use a food processor to process the biscuits for a quick and easy preparation.

- Refrigerate the mixture to allow it to firm up before rolling into balls.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of biscuit or cookie in place of the toffee pop biscuits.

- You can use low-fat cream cheese in place of full cream cheese for a lighter version of the recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

Toffee Pop Balls can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge until ready to serve. They will keep well for up to 3-4 days.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the Toffee Pop Balls on a serving platter and garnish with a sprinkle of coconut or a drizzle of chocolate for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Toffee Pop Balls pair well with a cup of coffee or tea for a sweet and satisfying treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the Toffee Pop Balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. They can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Toffee Pop Balls contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Toffee Pop Balls contains approximately 15g of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Toffee Pop Balls contains approximately 8g of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Toffee Pop Balls contains approximately 2g of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Toffee Pop Balls are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Toffee Pop Balls contain dairy and gluten.

Summary

Toffee Pop Balls are a sweet and indulgent treat that is relatively low in calories but high in fats and carbohydrates. They are not a significant source of proteins, vitamins, or minerals.

Summary

Toffee Pop Balls are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With a rich and creamy texture and a sweet toffee flavor, these bite-sized balls are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy them as a sweet treat or serve them at your next party for a delicious and indulgent dessert.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Toffee Pop Balls. It was tucked away in an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. The pages were yellowed and stained with years of use, but the words on them were clear and concise. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I knew that I had to try making these delicious treats.

The recipe called for simple ingredients - butter, sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, baking soda, and of course, popcorn. It seemed like a strange combination at first, but something about it intrigued me. I had always loved experimenting in the kitchen, and this recipe presented a new challenge for me to tackle.

I set to work gathering all the ingredients I would need. I sifted through my pantry, measuring out the butter and sugar, and carefully melting them together in a saucepan. The aroma of caramel filled the air as I added the corn syrup and vanilla, stirring until everything was well combined. Then came the baking soda, which caused the mixture to bubble and foam, creating a light and airy texture.

Next, it was time to add the popcorn. I had never made popcorn from scratch before, but the recipe called for popping it on the stovetop in a bit of oil. The kernels sizzled and popped, filling the pot with a delightful aroma. Once the popcorn was ready, I poured the caramel mixture over it, tossing everything together until the popcorn was evenly coated.

I then shaped the mixture into small balls, rolling them in my hands until they were smooth and round. As I worked, I couldn't help but think about the history of this recipe. Where had it come from? Who had originally created it? These were questions that would likely never be answered, but it didn't matter. What mattered was that I was carrying on a tradition, passing down a recipe that had been enjoyed by generations before me.

I placed the Toffee Pop Balls on a tray to cool, admiring their shiny, golden appearance. They looked almost too good to eat, but I couldn't resist taking a bite. The crunch of the popcorn mixed with the sweet, buttery caramel was absolutely divine. I knew right away that this recipe would become a staple in my own collection.

Over the years, I have made Toffee Pop Balls countless times, each batch just as delicious as the last. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all raved about its unique flavor and addictive crunch. It has become a favorite at holiday gatherings and potlucks, always disappearing within minutes of being served.

As I reflect on the journey that led me to discover this recipe, I am grateful for the generations of cooks who came before me, passing down their knowledge and love of food. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my heritage, to honor the traditions of my family. And with each bite of Toffee Pop Balls, I am reminded of the joy and satisfaction that comes from creating something delicious with my own two hands.