As a Health Specialist I don't usually encourage that my clients indulge in candy and desserts on a regular basis. Why? Because it's just not a healthy way to go about life. However, there are times (usually weekends) that I encourage clients to splurge a little on something deliciously sweet.
I have a HUGE sweet tooth! Anything covered in chocolate is my favorite thing. As a rule, I save my cheat days for weekends or special holidays (like Christmas or Thanksgiving). Since today is a candy-centered holiday, I wanted to share some alternatives for the adults who aren't trick-or-treating tonight.
Quick Whoopie Pies
Ingredients:
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter, softened
3 ounces marshmallow creme
12 soft chocolate cookies
Directions:
Beat the cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy. Fold in the marshmallow creme.
Spread the filling on the bottoms of half the cookies. Top with remaining cookies and enjoy! For firmer filling, chill before serving.
Spiked Chocolate Fondue
Ingredients:
2 1/2 cups whipping cream
12 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, chopped
1/4 cup orange liqueur, amaretto, hazelnut liqueur, or brandy
Assorted dippers - marshmallows, graham crackers, cookies, kiwi, strawberries, bananas, raspberries, etc.
Directions:
In a slow cooker, combine the cream, chocolate, and liqueur.
Cover and cook on low heat for 2 1/2-3 hours, whisking once halfway through cooking until the mixture is smooth and the chocolate is melted. Serve immediately or keep warm for up to 1 hour.
Serve your fondue with desired dippers.
Affogato Trifles
Ingredients:
2 cups coarsely crushed biscotti, amaretti, or other favorite cookie
2 cups vanilla ice cream, softened slightly
1 cup whipped cream
1 teaspoon cinnamon
4 shots hot espresso (separated) or 3/4 cup strong brewed coffee
Directions:
In four parfait or dessert glasses, layer with 1/4 cup of the crushed cookie and 1/4 cup of the ice cream. Repeat with the remaining cookies and ice cream.
Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with cinnamon. Accompany with shots of espresso to drizzle over the ice cream before eating.
Recipes courtesy of Mid-West Living
So what do you think?
I am definitely in the mood for the spiked fondue right now. There's nothing better than a strawberry dipped in chocolate! Now my mouth is watering...excuse me while I go to the store and pick up some ingredients.
Until next time,
Amanda
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