Milky Way Gems

Prep: 30 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

Delightful Milky Way Gems are bite-sized treats with a rich chocolate and caramel flavor, coated in nuts or coconut, perfect for sweet cravings or festive occasions.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
  • 1 (12 oz.) jar Milky Way ice cream topping
  • 8 oz. cream cheese
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 3 cups chocolate chip cookie crumbs
  • 1 cup coconut
  • 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans

Instructions

  1. Combine sugar, brown sugar, and Milky Way ice cream topping in a large skillet.
  2. Cook until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in cream cheese until melted. Add vanilla and stir.
  4. Add coconut and chopped pecans. Allow to cool completely.
  5. Roll into balls and coat with additional nuts or coconut (or a mixture of both).

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar. You can substitute the chopped pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred. If you want a creamier texture, add an additional ounce of cream cheese. When rolling the balls, wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking. This treat is reminiscent of American recipes that combine sweet and nutty flavors.

Serving Suggestions

These Milky Way Gems make a delightful dessert for parties or gatherings. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. For a festive touch, serve them alongside Grandmother'S Sweet Potato Pie or at a potluck with other treats like Rum Buns. Enjoy them as a sweet snack or dessert after dinner.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Milky Way Gems in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a container or freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Milky Way Gems contains roughly 312 calories, with 4g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (12% of the Daily Value).

312 kcal 16% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.1g 8% DV
Total Fat 19.5g 25% DV
Carbs 30.1g 11% DV
Fiber 1.6g 6% DV
Sugar 16.4g 33% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 170.9mg 7% DV
Potassium 218.5mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 33.6mg 11% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 104mcg 12% DV
Vitamin C 2.3mg 3% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 45mg 3% DV
Iron 1.2mg 7% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Tree nuts

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 ice cream topping?

Yes, you can substitute the Milky Way ice cream topping with other chocolate or caramel sauces, depending on your preference. Just ensure it has a similar consistency to achieve the right texture for the mixture.

How long do I need to cool the mixture before rolling?

Allow the mixture to cool completely at room temperature, which usually takes about 30 minutes. If you're in a hurry, you can refrigerate it for about 15 minutes to speed up the process before rolling into balls.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Milky Way Gems can be made a day or two in advance. Just ensure they are stored properly in an airtight container. This makes them perfect for preparing in advance for events or busy days.

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).

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