Conversation Heart Cheesecake Truffles
For those of you that don’t know me, I am an organizational addict. I can spend an entire day re-organizing my pantry, my scrapbook room, or my closet. It gives me joy, pleasure, and a sense of fulfillment. Does my addiction drive my husband nuts? Absolutely. Do my friends think I am crazy? Absolutely. Do I care? Absolutely Not! I will continue color coding, labeling, and arranging things by size.
Now my daughter on the other hand, is a different story. She has a random personality. She received a Rainbow Loom for Christmas and has been constantly busy making bracelets for everyone and finds it more creative to use random colored bands in no particular order. NO PATTERNS!!??? Who is this child? Surely, she is not mine.
Not only that, but I bought her a case to hold and organize all the different colored bands for her loom. At first, the different colors were separated into different slots, but one day she decided that she wanted all the slots to look full so she mixed up all the colored bands and shoved them into the slots. WWWWWHAT???!!! I put up with it for weeks, but my eyes began to hurt from looking at all the disorder and my hands twitched from trying to restrain myself.
So, the other morning while she was at school, I dumped out all the bands, and spent an hour or so sorting colors and putting them in their proper slots in the case. After that, all was well in the world again. The sun came out, a rainbow burst out of the sky, and a million butterflies fluttered by. When she came home from school, I showed her what I had done. She was not impressed. I told her that if she could keep the bands organized I would buy her new ones. What’s a little bribery amongst family.
I feel sorry for those that are organizationally challenged. They must face great adversity in their lives. I wish I could buy them all a label gun and show them the way of true happiness. Alas, some people are too hard to change. My son has shown some signs of OCD. He can not stand to have doors or drawers open. He must close them all. I think I see some promise there. Perhaps I can teach him about the true meaning of organization. We shall see.
For those of you that are still here reading and understand my frustrations, I offer you a little treat. This is a result of the crazy ideas that sometimes float around in my head when I am not organizing.
I bought a bag of Brachs Conversation Hearts. These little hearts have different fruity flavors. They don’t seem as chalky as the Necco brand. You can smell the fruitiness when you chop them up. Now a word of caution here. These little hearts are a bit tougher to chop than I thought. First I tried my coffee bean grinder, but I ended up breaking the blade. Then I tried my little food processor, but it wasn’t powerful enough. The Blendtec worked fine to turn these into a fine powder. Although next time I think I will crush them by hand with a rolling pin first before putting them in the machine, to help things along. The Nilla wafers were a breeze to chop. I mixed all the ingredients by hand then used a cookie scoop to measure out the portions and rolled them into balls. Of course, then I remembered that I have a heart shaped cake pop mold so I turned all the balls into hearts. The size portion was pretty much the same.
I bought some Wilton’s candy melt to dip them in. Did you know they have Red Velvet candy melt? I had to try it. I also bought bright white and bright pink which are a regular vanilla flavor.
These disposable candy decorating bags are always good to have on hand, but you can also use a Ziplock bag.
You can choose to buy candy melt the colors of the conversation hearts, but I like these colors. I think I like the red velvet most of all with these Conversation Heart Cheesecake Truffles. The taste added more pop to the filling than just the regular vanilla. I hope Wilton carries this flavor again next year.
Conversation Heart Cheesecake Truffles
by The Sweet Chick
Prep Time: 2 hours
Keywords: no bake dessert cream cheese Nilla wafers Conversation Heart candy candy melt truffles American
Ingredients (16 truffles)
For the truffles
- 1 package (8 oz.) cream cheese
- 1 cup crushed Brachs Conversation Hearts candy
- 1/2 cup crushed Nilla wafers
For the coating
- 1 package (10 oz.) Wilton’s Red Velvet candy melt
- 1 package (10 oz.) Wilton’s Bright Pink candy melt
- 1 package (10 oz.) Wilton’s Bright White candy melt
Optional toppings
- sprinkles
Instructions
For the truffles
In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, crushed candy, and crushed wafers until well combined.
With a cookie scoop, measure out each truffle and roll it into a ball, or press it into a heart shaped cake pop mold.
Note: If you are shaping them into balls and the mixture is too sticky, add a little bit of leftover crushed wafers to your hands. If you are using the mold, add a little powdered sugar to keep the mixture from sticking to the mold.
Place truffles on a waxed paper lined air tight container and place in freezer for at least an hour or overnight.
When you are ready to decorate, pick which color candy melt will be your base color and melt one cup of wafers in the microwave according to the instructions on the package.
Remove the truffles from the freezer and dip each one into candy coating mixture until all covered. I use a fork. Once covered, remove and softly tap until excess candy melt falls off. Then place truffles on a clean sheet of wax paper. I use a toothpick to slide them off the fork. Candy melt should harden fairly quickly.
Note: If melted candy is too thick for dipping add a teaspoon at a time of vegetable shortening until you get the right consistency.
Next prepare the candy melt color you are using for the drizzle, melting one cup of wafers. Fill a candy decorating bag or a Ziplock bag with the melted candy and snip off the end. Drizzle the melted candy over the tops of the truffles.
If you are adding sprinkles, do so quickly before the candy melt hardens.
When all truffles are done, keep them refrigerated. Enjoy!
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Are Oat Cookies Acidic?
Acid reflux, a common digestive condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, can cause discomfort, heartburn, and other unpleasant symptoms. Often, it is closely linked to dietary choices, as certain foods can trigger or worsen symptoms. For individuals managing acid reflux, understanding the pH levels and acidity of foods becomes essential. Among popular snacks, oat cookies are often considered a healthier alternative to more indulgent options like sugar cookies or chocolate chip cookies. But an important question arises: Are oat cookies acidic, and can they affect acid reflux?
While oats themselves are praised for their nutritional value, the ingredients and baking process involved in making oat cookies can influence their overall acidity. This article explores the acidity of oat cookies, their impact on acid reflux, and practical tips for enjoying them without triggering symptoms. Whether you’re looking for an occasional treat or a GERD-friendly snack option, we’ve got you covered.
What Are Oat Cookies?
Oat cookies are a type of baked treat primarily made with oats as the main ingredient. They’re versatile and can be customized with a variety of add-ins like raisins, chocolate chips, or nuts. Known for their hearty texture and nutty flavor, oat cookies are often seen as a healthier alternative to traditional cookies.
Ingredients Commonly Used in Oat Cookies
Most oat cookies contain:
- Oats: The primary ingredient, providing fiber and a chewy texture.
- Flour: Often all-purpose or whole wheat.
- Sweeteners: Sugar, honey, or maple syrup for added flavor.
- Fats: Butter or oil for richness.
- Add-ins: Raisins, nuts, seeds, or chocolate for variety.
Nutritional Benefits of Oats
| Nutrient | Amount per 1 Cookie (Approx. 30g) |
| Calories | 120–150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 18–20 g |
| Fiber | 1.5–2 g |
| Sugar | 8–12 g |
| Fat | 4–6 g |
| Protein | 1–2 g |
| Sodium | 50–100 mg |
| Potassium | 40–60 mg |
- Rich in dietary fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which supports digestion and helps lower cholesterol.
- Contain essential nutrients like manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, and iron.
- Low glycemic index compared to refined grains, making them a better option for sustained energy release.
Comparison With Other Cookies
- Sugar Cookies: Higher in sugar and calories, with minimal fiber.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Tend to be higher in fat and sugar, offering fewer nutritional benefits.
- Oat Cookies: Stand out for their fiber content and slower digestion, making them a potentially healthier choice.
Are Oats Acidic or Alkaline?
Scientific Explanation of Oats’ pH Level
Studies suggests that oats have a neutral to slightly acidic pH, ranging between 5.5 and 6.0. This places them on the milder side of the acidity spectrum compared to highly acidic foods like citrus fruits or tomatoes. Despite their slight acidity, oats are generally considered safe for people managing acid reflux, especially when prepared simply without added fats or sugars.
Comparison With Other Grains
- Rice: Slightly acidic but often well-tolerated by individuals with acid reflux.
- Wheat: Tends to be more acidic than oats, especially in refined forms like white bread.
- Quinoa: A slightly alkaline grain, making it a good alternative for those sensitive to acidic foods.
Oats are not strongly acidic, making them a better choice compared to many other grains in the context of acid reflux.
Are Oat Cookies Acidic?
The pH of oat cookies is influenced by their ingredients and the baking process. While oats themselves are mildly acidic, additional ingredients like sugar, butter, and baking powder can alter their pH.
How Ingredients Affect Acidity
- Sugar: Highly acidic and a potential trigger for acid reflux.
- Butter or Oil: While neutral in pH, these add richness that can slow digestion and lead to acid reflux in some cases.
- Add-ins: Ingredients like chocolate or dried fruits can add acidity, depending on their type and quantity.
pH Level of Oat Cookies vs. Plain Oats
- Plain Oats: Typically have a pH of 5.5–6.0, making them mildly acidic.
- Oat Cookies: Depending on the recipe, the pH can drop slightly due to added sugars and other ingredients, placing them closer to 4.5–5.5. This makes oat cookies more acidic than plain oats.
While oat cookies are more acidic than plain oats, they are still less acidic than many other baked goods like sugar cookies or cakes.
Can Oat Cookies Cause Acid Reflux?
Potential Triggers for Acid Reflux in Oat Cookies
Certain aspects of oat cookies can trigger acid reflux:
- Sugar Content: High sugar levels can increase stomach acid production, potentially causing heartburn.
- Fat Content: Rich cookies with butter or oil may delay stomach emptying, increasing the risk of acid reflux.
- Additives: Chocolate or sugary dried fruits can irritate the digestive system in some individuals.
Benefits of Oats for Digestion
Despite the potential triggers, oats themselves offer digestive benefits that may counteract some of these effects:
- High fiber content promotes healthy digestion and can help reduce acid reflux by stabilizing stomach acidity.
- Beta-glucan in oats can soothe the digestive tract and improve gut health.
Moderation is Key
For acid reflux sufferers, the key to enjoying oat cookies lies in moderation. Opt for recipes with less sugar and fat, and consume them in small portions to minimize the risk of triggering symptoms.
Best Ways to Enjoy Oat Cookies if You Have Acid Reflux
Choosing Acid Reflux-Friendly Oat Cookies
When selecting or preparing oat cookies, consider these tips:
- Look for low-sugar options or reduce sugar in homemade recipes.
- Choose cookies made with whole-grain oats to maximize fiber content.
- Avoid add-ins like chocolate chips or candied fruits, which can increase acidity.
Recipe Ideas for GERD-Friendly Oat Cookies
For those who love to bake, try these adjustments to make oat cookies more suitable for acid reflux:
- Replace sugar with natural sweeteners like stevia or maple syrup.
- Use plant-based oils instead of butter to reduce fat content.
- Add digestion-friendly ingredients like bananas or unsweetened applesauce for natural sweetness and moisture.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair oat cookies with non-acidic beverages to further reduce the risk of reflux. For example:
- Herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint can soothe the stomach.
- A glass of almond milk offers a low-acid, creamy option.
Recipes: Honey Carrot Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Biscoff Oatmeal Double Chocolate Chip Cookies
Oatmeal White Chocolate M&M; Cookies
Healthy Alternatives to Oat Cookies
For individuals with acid reflux, finding the right snacks can be a game-changer. While oat cookies can be modified to suit acid reflux-friendly diets, there are other snacks that naturally have low acidity and are gentler on the digestive system.
Snack Suggestions for Acid Reflux Sufferers
- Bananas: Naturally alkaline, bananas can neutralize stomach acid and make for a quick, nutritious snack.
- Rice Crackers: These are low-acid and light on the stomach, making them an excellent choice for snacking without triggering reflux.
- Unsweetened Yogurt: Packed with probiotics, yogurt can help improve gut health and balance stomach acid levels. Opt for unsweetened varieties to avoid added sugars.
Low-Acidity Baked Goods
For those who enjoy baked treats, consider alternatives like:
- Banana Bread: Made with ripe bananas, this moist snack is naturally sweet and easy to make GERD-friendly.
- Oatmeal Muffins: These can be made with minimal sugar and added fruits like blueberries or apples for flavor.
- Rice Flour Cookies: Light and gluten-free, these cookies are less acidic and perfect for sensitive stomachs.
By diversifying your snack options, you can enjoy satisfying treats without aggravating acid reflux symptoms.
Conclusion
Oat cookies, though mildly acidic due to their ingredients, can still be a viable snack option for those with acid reflux when consumed in moderation. The acidity of oat cookies largely depends on the recipe and additional ingredients, such as sugar or butter. While oats themselves are nutrient-rich and beneficial for digestion, the other components of cookies can influence their impact on acid reflux.
For those managing GERD, it’s essential to make thoughtful choices, such as opting for low-sugar recipes or enjoying oat cookies with non-acidic beverages. Alternatively, healthier snacks like bananas, rice crackers, or yogurt offer low-acidity options that are easy on the stomach.
In conclusion, oat cookies don’t have to be completely off-limits, but knowing how to prepare or choose GERD-friendly versions can make all the difference. As always, listen to your body and consult a healthcare provider if you experience persistent symptoms.
FAQs
1. Are oat cookies safe for acid reflux sufferers?
Oat cookies can be safe if consumed in moderation and prepared with low-sugar and low-fat ingredients. Avoid add-ins like chocolate or dried fruits.
2. Are oats acidic or alkaline?
Oats are mildly acidic with a pH of 5.5–6.0 but are generally well-tolerated by people with acid reflux.
3. Can oat cookies trigger acid reflux?
Depending on their sugar and fat content, oat cookies may trigger symptoms in some individuals. Choose GERD-friendly recipes to reduce risk.
4. What are other acid reflux-friendly snacks?
Bananas, rice crackers, unsweetened yogurt, and baked goods like oatmeal muffins or banana bread are excellent low-acid alternatives.
5. How can I make oat cookies GERD-friendly?
Use whole-grain oats, reduce sugar, and avoid acidic add-ins. Incorporate natural sweeteners like stevia or applesauce for a healthier option.
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