The Chocolate Crackles is a popular Australian dessert that is easy to make and loved by people of all ages. It is a sweet treat made with Rice Bubbles, also known as Rice Krispies in other countries, mixed with melted chocolate and coconut. The mixture is then spooned into paper cups and chilled until set, resulting in a crunchy, chocolatey delight.

Chocolate Crackles are a classic Australian treat that have been enjoyed for generations. They are loved for their delicious chocolatey taste and satisfying crunch. The dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a birthday party, school event, or just a sweet snack for the family.

Overall, Chocolate Crackles are a delicious and nostalgic treat that are sure to bring a smile to anyone's face. Whether you're making them for a special occasion or just to enjoy as a snack, they are a fun and easy dessert that everyone will love.

Here's a step-by-step guide to making Chocolate Crackles:

Ingredients:

1- 4 cups of Rice Bubbles

2- 1 cup desiccated coconut

3- 1 cup icing sugar

4- 3 tbsp cocoa powder

5- 250g copha (vegetable shortening)

6- 12 paper cups (or more, depending on size)

Method:

1- In a large bowl, combine Rice Bubbles, desiccated coconut, icing sugar, and cocoa powder.

2- Melt copha in a saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly until completely melted and smooth.

3- Pour melted copha into the dry mixture and mix well until everything is evenly coated.

4- Spoon the mixture into paper cups, filling each about three-quarters of the way.

5- Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or until the mixture has set.

6- Once set, remove the Chocolate Crackles from the paper cups and serve.

Note:

Copha is a solid vegetable shortening that is commonly used in Australia. If it's not available in your area, you can use butter or margarine as a substitute.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 145
• Total Fat: 9.5g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 25mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 14g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 9g
• Protein: 1.5g

1. 4 cups of Rice Bubbles:

• Calories: Approximately 480 kcal
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 112g
• Protein: Approximately 4g
• Fat: Approximately 0g
• Sodium: Approximately 400mg

benefits:

• Low in Calories: Rice bubbles are relatively low in calories, making them a good option for a light snack or dessert base.
• Gluten-Free: Made from rice, these bubbles are typically gluten-free, suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
• Fortified with Vitamins and Minerals: Many brands of rice bubbles are fortified with essential vitamins and minerals like iron and B vitamins, which are important for energy production and overall health.

2. 1 cup desiccated coconut:

• Calories: Approximately 660 kcal
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 20g
• Protein: Approximately 6g
• Fat: Approximately 64g
• Sodium: Approximately 25mg

benefits:

• Rich in Fiber: Desiccated coconut is high in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy digestive system.
• Healthy Fats: Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are known for their quick energy supply and potential weight management benefits.
• Mineral Content: Rich in essential minerals such as manganese, copper, and selenium, which support various bodily functions including metabolism and antioxidant protection.

3. 1 cup icing sugar:

• Calories: Approximately 774 kcal
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 200g
• Protein: Approximately 0g
• Fat: Approximately 0g
• Sodium: Approximately 6mg

benefits:

• Quick Source of Energy: As a simple carbohydrate, icing sugar provides a quick energy boost, which can be useful in small quantities, especially in desserts.
• Texture and Sweetness: Adds sweetness and a smooth texture to desserts, making them more palatable and enjoyable.

4. 3 tbsp cocoa powder:

• Calories: Approximately 49 kcal
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 12g
• Protein: Approximately 3g
• Fat: Approximately 2g
• Sodium: Approximately 3mg

benefits:

• Rich in Antioxidants: Cocoa powder is packed with flavonoids, which are powerful antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.
• Mood Enhancer: Contains compounds like theobromine and phenylethylamine, which can boost mood and improve cognitive function.
• Mineral Content: High in essential minerals such as magnesium, iron, and zinc, supporting various bodily functions including muscle function and immune health.

5. 250g copha (vegetable shortening):

• Calories: Approximately 2110 kcal
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 0g
• Protein: Approximately 0g
• Fat: Approximately 250g
• Sodium: Approximately 10mg

benefits:

• Stability: Provides a stable fat that doesn't easily go rancid, helping to extend the shelf life of the finished product.
• Texture: Gives a desirable texture to baked goods and desserts, contributing to a pleasant mouthfeel.
• Plant-Based: Being plant-based, copha is suitable for vegetarians and can be a substitute for animal fats in recipes.

6. 12 paper cups (negligible nutritional value as they are used for serving)

benefits:

• Portion Control: Using paper cups helps in controlling portion sizes, which is useful for managing calorie intake.
• Convenience: Makes serving and cleaning easier, especially for parties or events.
• Presentation: Enhances the presentation of the dessert, making it more appealing and easier to handle.

These benefits make each ingredient an important part of the recipe, contributing to both the nutritional profile and the overall appeal of the final product.

Please note that these nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brand and ingredients used. Additionally, the total nutritional content of the Chocolate Crackles will depend on the quantities of each ingredient used in the recipe.

Overall, Chocolate Crackles are a fun and easy dessert to make that will satisfy any chocolate lover's sweet tooth. They are perfect for parties, picnics, or any occasion where you want to indulge in a sweet treat.