Barn Yard "Cow Pies"
Sweet and crunchy chocolate confections with raisins and almonds, perfect for satisfying cravings or serving at gatherings. Easy to make and delightfully indulgent.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a double boiler over simmering water, melt chocolate chips and shortening, stirring until smooth.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in raisins and chopped slivered almonds.
- Drop by tablespoonfuls onto waxed paper.
- Chill until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the chocolate chips are fully melted before adding the other ingredients. If you want to reduce sweetness, consider using dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate. You can also substitute the almonds with walnuts or pecans for a different flavor. Adding a pinch of sea salt can enhance the overall taste, making it a delightful treat. This recipe is a fun twist on American recipes for sweet snacks.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cow pies as a fun dessert at parties or family gatherings. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. Consider presenting them alongside a fruit platter or a light salad, such as Quick Spinach Supreme, to balance the sweetness. They make a great addition to a dessert table.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cow pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. They can last up to a week when properly stored. For a quick treat, enjoy them chilled or let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barn Yard "Cow Pies" contains roughly 221 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 23g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute slivered almonds with your favorite nuts, such as walnuts or pecans. Each type of nut will add a unique flavor and texture to the cow pies. Just ensure that any nuts you choose are chopped similar in size to maintain a consistent texture throughout.
How can I make these cow pies healthier?
To make these cow pies a bit healthier, you can substitute half of the chocolate chips with a sugar-free alternative or dark chocolate. Additionally, you may reduce the amount of raisins or use dried cranberries for a lower sugar option. Utilizing unsweetened chocolate can also provide a richer flavor without the extra sweetness.
Can I add other ingredients to the mixture?
Yes! Feel free to customize the cow pies by adding ingredients like shredded coconut, mini marshmallows, or even a hint of cinnamon for added flavor. Just be mindful of the overall mixture consistency; adding too much can make them difficult to drop onto the waxed paper.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).