Chocolate Chip Brandy Balls
Chocolate Chip Brandy Balls are delicious, bite-sized treats combining creamy cheese, sweet chocolate morsels, and warm spices, enhanced with a hint of brandy. Perfect for parties or as a sweet gift, they offer a rich, creamy texture with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg for a festive touch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, confectioners sugar, heavy cream, brandy extract, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until creamy.
- Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate morsels.
- Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls onto a cookie sheet and chill for 5 minutes.
- Roll the chilled mixture into balls and roll in nuts.
- Makes approximately 36 balls.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute brandy extract with vanilla extract if desired. If you want to add some crunch, consider rolling the balls in crushed nuts or sprinkles. For a unique twist, incorporate some mini chocolate chips or swap in flavored extracts like almond or hazelnut.
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate chip brandy balls make a delightful dessert for gatherings or holiday parties. Serve them alongside coffee or a sweet dessert wine for a perfect pairing. They also pair beautifully with Laine'S Carrot Cake for a diverse dessert table. Garnish with a dusting of confectioners sugar or cocoa powder for an elegant touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chocolate chip brandy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them for up to three months. To enjoy them again, simply remove from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Avoid microwave reheating as it may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Chip Brandy Balls contains roughly 145 calories, with 1g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 9g 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 make these chocolate chip brandy balls in advance?
Yes, these treats can be made ahead of time. Prepare and chill the mixture, then roll into balls and coat them in nuts or sprinkles. They store well in the refrigerator for up to a week or can be frozen for longer storage, making them perfect for preparing for events.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you need a substitute for cream cheese, consider using mascarpone or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a similar texture. Keep in mind that the flavor may slightly differ, so adjust the other ingredients accordingly to balance the sweetness.
How can I make these non-alcoholic?
To make these chocolate chip brandy balls non-alcoholic, simply omit the brandy extract and replace it with additional vanilla extract or almond extract. This will maintain the flavor profile while ensuring everyone can enjoy them.
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).