Now that summer is in full swing, Algonquin is brimming with great dining options. Whether you picnic by the river, barbecue in your backyard or visit one of our superb local restaurants, Algonquin summers are meant for savoring your favorite flavors.
To beat the heat, we may head to for a refreshing smoothie, or for our favorite Blizzard. But if you’re looking for a different way to cool off and delight your taste buds, consider skipping ahead (or behind) to wintertime.
We’re just about six months from Christmas, so why not celebrate with the foods that make you think about snowfalls, mittens and tacky holiday yard decorations? It’s a great way to take a break from your usual summer fare and to daydream about cooler temperatures.
Consider a stop at one of our local chocolate shops, like or for decadent sweets that we usually only allow ourselves during the holidays.
Or you might want to try making your own.
I created this recipe for chocolate truffles using several versions I found online. They’re great to make in the summertime because they don’t require an oven or stovetop (if you melt the butter and the chocolate in the microwave).
You can get really creative, too, by substituting whatever flavor chocolate and liquid you want to use. I added dashes of cinnamon and nutmeg to give them a more Christmassy taste.
If you have extra chocolate coating when you’re finished, I suggest drizzling it on a banana and then sticking it in the freezer. Bonus dessert!
Here’s the recipe I used. Enjoy!
1¼ cup oatmeal
6 tbsp confectioner’s sugar
3 tbsp coconut rum
2 tbsp cocoa powder
3½ tbsp butter melted
Nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves to taste
1.7 oz. dark chocolate
Sprinkles for decor
Grind the oatmeal in a blender. Add confectioner’s sugar, rum, cocoa powder, melted butter, and spices. Roll into half-tablespoon balls. Freeze on a baking sheet for 1 hour.
Melt the chocolate in the microwave.
Dip each ball into the melted chocolate and put on a cookie sheet. Sprinkle as desired.
Makes 12 truffles.
