Christmas Candy Recipes

Buttercreams

• 1/2 cup LAND O LAKES® Butter, softened
• 1 (3-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract*
• 4 cups powdered sugar

Coating Ingredients:

• 1 (12-ounce) package (2 cups) real semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening

1. Combine butter and cream cheese in large bowl. Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often, until smooth (1 to 2 minutes). Add vanilla; continue beating until well mixed. Reduce speed to low. Beat, gradually adding powdered sugar, until well mixed (4 to 5 minutes). (If mixture is too soft, cover and refrigerate 1 hour or until firm enough to form balls.)
2. Shape rounded teaspoonfuls of mixture into 1-inch balls. Place on waxed paper-lined baking sheets. Cover loosely; refrigerate until firm (2 hours or overnight).
3. Melt chocolate chips and shortening in 1-quart saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly, until smooth (3 to 4 minutes). Using a spoon, dip buttercreams into chocolate mixture; let excess chocolate drip off. Place on waxed paper-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes to set.
   Makes 5 dozen candies.
   *Substitute 1 1/2 teaspoons almond, orange or rum extract.

Cranberry Fudge

• 1 1/4 cups Ocean Spray® Fresh or Frozen Cranberries
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 2 cups chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1. Line bottom and sides of 8 x 8-inch pan with plastic wrap. Set aside. Bring cranberries and corn syrup to a boil in a medium saucepan. Boil on high for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is reduced to 3 tablespoons. Remove from heat. Immediately add chocolate chips, stirring until they are completely melted.
2. Add remaining ingredients, stirring vigorously until the mixture is thick and glossy. Pour into prepared pan. Cover and chill until firm.
   Makes 25 pieces.