Hazelnut and Orange Bliss Balls …

Hazelnut & Orange Bliss Balls 001

 

You will have guessed by now that I love creating Bliss Balls … little balls of yummy that are perfect for a quick snack.  These ones are particularly decadent and will have definite appeal for the adults (although my kids love them too).  I’ve moved away from the almond meal with this recipe and substituted it with hazelnut meal.  The texture of the two is very similar but the hazelnut meal has a lovely “Nutella” flavour that is beautifully complemented with the sweetness of both the orange juice and orange zest.  These would actually be great served with coffee after a barbecue or dinner party and, for something a little different, I coated these in dark chocolate.  Desiccated coconut on the outside works just as well.  Check to see if your school has a “nut-free” policy before sending these in lunchboxes.  Enjoy!!

 

Hazelnut and Orange Bliss Balls ...
 
Author:
Ingredients ...
  • 1 ½ cups Hazelnut meal (or 150 g packet)
  • 3 tablespoons raw cacao (cocoa can be substituted)
  • ¾ cup shredded coconut
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons orange zest
  • 2 tablespoons orange juice (freshly squeezed although bottled works just as well)
  • 200g dark chocolate melts (or desiccated coconut, extra for rolling)
Method ...
  1. Measure all ingredients and place in food processor.
  2. Blend until well combined and all ingredients are sticking together rather firmly.
  3. Roll mixture into small balls.
  4. Melt dark chocolate, dip balls and coat evenly.
  5. Refrigerate to allow chocolate to set. Alternatively, roll balls in extra desiccated coconut and then refrigerate until firm. This mixture should make approximately 16 balls.

 

Clever Tricks, Tips & Hints:

It’s quite okay to substitute desiccated coconut if you don’t have shredded coconut in the cupboard.  I have used “Mackenzies” Shredded Coconut and also “Black and Gold” Shredded Coconut to make these in the past.  If you want to save a few dollars, go for the cheaper brand which will produce the same results.  I personally prefer the Woolworths Macro Organic Shredded coconut as it contains no preservatives.  I normally freshly squeeze ½ an orange for the juice and then zest the skin.  Ordinary orange juice works perfectly well and if you don’t have any fresh oranges to zest, then this can be omitted from the recipe.  Enjoy!!

 

Comments

  1. I made some recently with hazelnut meal as I had run out of almonds and you’re right about the cocoa and hazelnuts together reminding of Nutella!

    • Yes, I love that Nutella flavour and the hazelnuts are a nice change to the Almond Meal.

  2. I love chocolate and orange – winning combination. You have made these so well – they’re perfect. Great with Easter on the horizon too! xx

    • These would be great for Easter, thanks for the idea! Getting the chocolate just right took a bit of practice but I go there in the end.