Chocolate Balls: A Sweet Tradition Becoming Israeli
Chocolate balls, or “chocolate logs,” may not have originated in Israel, but over the years, they’ve found a beloved spot in Israeli homes. While this treat has its roots in Kurdish cuisine, it has evolved into a widely enjoyed dessert in Israeli kitchens, especially at family gatherings, children’s parties, and holiday celebrations.
The simplicity of the recipe and the universal appeal of chocolate, biscuits, and coconut make it a crowd-pleaser across cultures. These chocolate balls, made from Petit-Beurre biscuits, dark chocolate, and a topping of your choice, are a perfect snack for both children and adults alike. While the dish may have originated in Kurdish communities, it has quickly woven itself into the fabric of Israeli home cooking, much like many other immigrant-inspired foods in the country.
Ingredients for Chocolate Balls:
- 1 package of Petit-Beurre vanilla or chocolate biscuits
- 2 packages of dark chocolate (200 grams)
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 container of whipping cream
- Ground coconut or colorful sprinkles (for coating)
How to Make Chocolate Balls:
- Melt the Chocolate: Begin by melting the dark chocolate in a small saucepan over very low heat. Add the milk and whipping cream, stirring until you have a smooth chocolate mixture.
- Crush the Biscuits: Place the Petit-Beurre biscuits in a food processor and pulse them until you get fine crumbs.
- Mix the Ingredients: Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the biscuit crumbs and mix well until the dough is smooth and uniform.
- Form the Balls: Use your hands to form small balls, about the size of ping-pong balls.
- Coat the Balls: Roll the balls in ground coconut or colorful sprinkles (or any other topping of your choice).
- Chill and Serve: Wrap the chocolate balls in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator for a few hours to set. You can also store them in the freezer for later use.
Chocolate Log Variation:
For a fun twist, instead of rolling the mixture into balls, you can form it into a long “sausage” shape, wrap it in plastic wrap, and freeze it. When ready to serve, simply slice it into rounds.
A National Favorite
While chocolate balls might not have been born in Israel, they have certainly made their mark. This easy, no-bake recipe has become a sweet snack loved by families across the country, showing how culinary traditions can evolve and become part of a national identity.