Chocolate Surprises
Chocolate Surprises are delightful bite-sized treats with a rich chocolate flavor, crunchy almonds, and a soft, chewy texture, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or sharing with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the chocolate chips and margarine in the microwave on Medium (7) in a large (2-quart) glass bowl.
- Add the condensed milk to the melted mixture and mix well.
- Stir in the flour until completely combined; the mixture will resemble play dough and may be a little sticky.
- Take one tablespoon of dough and cover a whole almond with it.
- Place the coated almond on a nonstick cookie sheet or greased baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 6 minutes. The treats will not look done at this stage.
- Let cool for a minute, then remove from the sheet and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter can be a great substitute. Make sure to let the dough rest briefly before shaping; this will make it easier to handle. If you want to add a twist, try mixing in a pinch of sea salt or a dash of vanilla extract.
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate surprises make a delightful treat on their own or paired with a scoop of Lorraine'S Ice Cream for an indulgent dessert. Consider serving them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. They also make excellent holiday gifts when packaged in decorative boxes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid climate, refrigerate them to maintain their texture. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to regain their softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Surprises contains roughly 927 calories, with 29g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (57% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 14g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 nut instead of almonds?
Absolutely! You can substitute almonds with other nuts like hazelnuts or pecans. Just make sure they are whole and unsalted to maintain the balance of flavors in the recipe.
What if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This will firm it up, making it easier to handle. You can also lightly flour your hands while shaping the dough around the almonds.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, simply scoop the dough around the almonds and follow the baking instructions. This can save time, especially if you're planning for a gathering.
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).