Twenty Five Days of Treats - Day 11

Today's treat isn't really candy, and it's definitely not a cookie.  Someone in my family used to call these kinds of confections "sweet nothings" - can't exactly remember who it was, but I love the name!  I would describe the flavor as sweet and rich and bright, a bit surprising...

SPH Apricot Coconut Balls
1 17-oz. pkg dried apricots
2 14-oz (BY WEIGHT) cans SWEETENED CONDENSED MILK (not EVAPORATED MILK)
@7 oz. shredded coconut (you can choose either sweetened or unsweetened - mine was sweetened)
Powdered sugar for rolling

Combine the apricots and SCM in the bowl of a food processor (I used my VitaMix).  Pulse until apricots are chopped fine and well combined with SCM.  Pour mixture into a bowl.  Stir in coconut.  Shape into balls (I use a cookie scooper), then roll in powdered sugar.  Let stand until firm (I put them in a deep container and cover with a dishcloth overnight).  Store in an airtight container with wax paper between layers.

Some helpful tips:  Whenever you use powdered sugar, it will go everywhere.  Embrace its sense of freedom, and just have the vacuum handy.  Wear something you don't mind washing.  Not only will you have powdered sugar on you, you will get sticky.  It's true.  No matter what you do to prevent it.  Use a spoon with the cookie scooper to get less sticky, and use a spoon in the bowl of powdered sugar to get less sugary.

These are an unusual treat - like I said, sweet and rich from the condensed milk and coconut, and bright from the tartness in the apricot.  These would be wonderful dessert after a really rich meal - just one or two to cleanse your palate.  Also, a great gift for friends or family who are gluten free.

Sign up for the giveaway ends tonight at 11:59 PM CST!

Enjoy!