Kartoshka (Russian Chocolate Potato Candies)
A beloved no-bake Russian sweet treat resembling small potatoes, made from crushed cookies, butter, cocoa, condensed milk, and nuts. It's a fun, easy dessert that kids often help prepare.
🧂 Ingredients
- 400 g Digestive biscuits or similar plain cookies
- 150 g Unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp Unsweetened cocoa powder
- 200 g Sweetened condensed milk
- 50 g Chopped nuts
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the cookie crumbs: Place cookies in a sturdy plastic bag or a food processor. Crush them into fine crumbs, resembling coarse sand. Ensure there are no large chunks.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat or in the microwave. Be careful not to burn it.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 3
Combine the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, cocoa powder, and sweetened condensed milk. Whisk until smooth and well incorporated. The mixture should be glossy.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Add the dry ingredients: Add the finely crushed cookies and chopped nuts (if using) to the wet mixture. Stir with a spoon or spatula until everything is thoroughly combined and a thick, sticky dough forms. It should hold together when pressed.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Shape the 'potatoes': Take about 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture at a time and roll it between your palms to form small, oval shapes resembling tiny potatoes. Aim for a size of about 1.5 inches (4 cm) long.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 6
Coat the 'potatoes': Place a few tablespoons of extra cocoa powder in a shallow dish. Gently roll each shaped 'potato' in the cocoa powder until evenly coated. This gives them their characteristic 'dirty potato' look.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 7
Chill to firm: Arrange the coated 'kartoshka' on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm to the touch. This allows the flavors to meld and the candies to set.
⏱️ 2 hours
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The final appearance should resemble a small, dirty potato, hence the name 'Kartoshka'.
- ✓This is a classic Soviet-era treat, often made during holidays or as a simple homemade dessert.
- ✓It's a fantastic recipe for involving children in the kitchen due to its simple steps and fun shaping process.
🔄 Variations
- Add a splash of rum or brandy to the mixture for an adult twist.
- Experiment with different coatings like finely chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or powdered sugar.
- Incorporate a small piece of candied fruit or a single nut in the center before shaping for a surprise inside.