Ingredients

1/3 cup honey
3/4 cup sugar , divided
1/2 cup orange juice
1 cinnamon stick ( about 2 inches )
3 whole cloves
1 cup ground walnuts
1/2 teaspoon orange peel , finely minced
1 cup butter
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons brandy
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup walnuts , finely chopped
Greek Honey Walnut Balls, also known as Melomakarona, are a popular sweet treat in Greece enjoyed during the holidays and special occasions. These small balls of heaven are made with ground walnuts and drizzled with honey syrup infused with cinnamon and cloves, making them a flavorful and aromatic dessert. The honey used in this recipe is a natural sweetener that enhances the flavor of the walnuts while the orange juice gives it a slight citrus twist.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2.In a saucepan, combine honey, 1/4 cup sugar, orange juice, cinnamon stick, and cloves over low heat for 5 minutes until flavors blend.
3.In a bowl, mix ground walnuts, remaining sugar, orange peel, and butter until creamy.
4.In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
5.Mix in honey mixture, brandy, and nut mixture until just combined.
6.Shape dough into 1-inch balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7.Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden in color.
8.Cool on a wire rack.

PROS

These Greek Honey Walnut Balls are a sweet and nutty treat with a unique blend of flavors including orange and cinnamon.

They are perfect for any special occasion and great for sharing.

CONS

These balls are high in calories and sugar and should be enjoyed in moderation.

They are also not ideal for people with nut allergies.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Walnuts, the main ingredient in this recipe, have been linked to numerous health benefits such as improving brain function, helping to manage diabetes, and supporting heart health.
Honey is also a natural anti-inflammatory and may have antibacterial properties which can improve overall health and wellbeing.

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