Chocolate Avalanche
Chocolate Avalanche offers a rich, chewy treat with toasted coconut and crunchy walnuts, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or sharing at parties and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line cookie sheets with waxed paper.
- Use a food processor for easiest preparation.
- In the top of a double boiler over simmering water, melt the semi-sweet chocolate.
- Fit the steel knife blade into the work bowl of the food processor.
- Combine melted chocolate, evaporated milk, powdered sugar, chopped black walnuts, and dried coconut in the work bowl.
- Process until well mixed, 6 to 8 seconds only, stopping to scrape down sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula.
- Drop by teaspoonfuls onto the waxed paper-lined cookie sheets.
- Let stand for 30 minutes or until set.
- Store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet. If you don't have black walnuts, pecans or regular walnuts can be substituted. Make sure to finely chop the nuts to ensure an even distribution in the mixture. If you prefer a sweeter treat, feel free to adjust the amount of powdered sugar to your taste. Using a food processor streamlines the process, but mixing by hand is also an option.
Serving Suggestions
These treats are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet snack. Serve alongside a glass of cold milk or hot cocoa for a comforting pairing. They also complement other desserts like Kari's Chocolate Chip Cookies or Cinnamon Crinkle Cookies beautifully. For a fun twist, try drizzling melted chocolate over the top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Chocolate Avalanche in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you live in a warmer climate, consider refrigerating them to maintain their shape and prevent melting. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to three months; just separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Avalanche contains roughly 119 calories, with 3g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 10g 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 a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute black walnuts with any nut you prefer, such as pecans or almonds. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly. Ensure the nuts are chopped finely for best results.
How can I make these treats more festive?
To add a festive touch, consider mixing in colored sprinkles or mini chocolate chips. You could also shape them into holiday-themed forms using cookie cutters or shape them into small balls for a more uniform look.
What is the best way to melt chocolate for this recipe?
Using a double boiler is ideal for melting chocolate gently without burning it. If you don't have one, you can create a makeshift double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Stir the chocolate frequently for even melting.
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).