Conversation Heart Cheesecake Truffles
Medically reviewed by Christiana George Updated Date: December 19, 2022
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!
Related Posts
Subscribe for New Racipies
Get mental health tips, updates, and resources delivered to your inbox.
Are Green Beans Acidic? Green Beans for Acid Reflux
If you are someone who struggles with acid reflux, choosing the right foods can be a game-changer in managing your symptoms. Many people wonder, “Are green beans acidic?” or “Can they help with acid reflux?”
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the acidity of green beans, their potential benefits for acid reflux, and how to incorporate them into your diet.
Understanding Acid Reflux
Before diving into green beans, it’s essential to understand what acid reflux is. Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing symptoms like heartburn, chest pain, and a sour taste in the mouth.
Chronic acid reflux is known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Certain foods, obesity, smoking, and other lifestyle factors can trigger the condition.
Are Green Beans Acidic?
Green beans are slightly acidic but fall on the lower end of the acidity scale. The pH of green beans ranges between 5.5 and 6.5, making them mildly acidic to nearly neutral. To put this into perspective, highly acidic foods like lemons have a pH of around 2, while neutral water has a pH of 7.
Their mild acidity makes green beans a safe choice for people with acid reflux, as they are unlikely to trigger symptoms. Additionally, green beans are packed with nutrients, making them a healthy addition to most diets.
Related to Read: Are Yellow Beans Acidic?
Nutritional Profile of Green Beans
According to research, green beans are not only low in acidity but also rich in essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of their nutritional value:
- Low in Calories: A cup of cooked green beans contains approximately 35 calories, making them a weight-friendly choice.
- High in Fiber: Green beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps prevent acid reflux by promoting healthy gut function.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: They contain vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, iron, magnesium, and potassium.
- Antioxidants: Green beans are a good source of antioxidants like flavonoids and carotenoids, which combat inflammation and oxidative stress.
How Green Beans Help with Acid Reflux?
Green beans can be particularly beneficial for people with acid reflux due to the following reasons:
1. Low Acid Content
As mentioned earlier, green beans have a mild acidity level, which reduces the risk of triggering acid reflux symptoms. Unlike tomatoes or citrus fruits, they are unlikely to cause discomfort.
2. High Fiber Content
Dietary fiber is crucial for digestive health. It helps regulate bowel movements and reduces pressure on the stomach, preventing the backflow of acid into the esophagus. Including fiber-rich foods like green beans can help manage acid reflux effectively.
3. Low Fat Content
High-fat foods are known to relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle that prevents stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. Green beans are naturally low in fat, making them a reflux-friendly option.
4. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
The antioxidants in green beans help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, providing relief from symptoms like heartburn and irritation.
Related to Read: Are Black Beans Acidic? A Nutritional Powerhouse or a Trigger?
Tips for Incorporating Green Beans into an Acid Reflux Diet
Here are some practical ways to add green beans to your meals while keeping acid reflux at bay:
1. Steamed Green Beans
Steaming green beans is one of the healthiest cooking methods. It retains their nutrients and avoids adding extra fats or spices that could trigger reflux.
2. Green Bean Salad
Combine steamed green beans with other low-acid vegetables like cucumbers, spinach, and carrots for a refreshing salad. Use olive oil and herbs as a dressing instead of acidic ingredients like vinegar.
3. Stir-Fry with Lean Protein
Create a quick and healthy stir-fry using green beans, chicken, or tofu. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos to keep it reflux-friendly.
4. Soups and Stews
Add green beans to soups and stews made with low-acid ingredients. Avoid tomato-based broths and opt for clear vegetable or chicken stock.
5. Roasted Green Beans
Roasting green beans with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper can enhance their flavor without causing reflux symptoms.
Author Tip: 7-Day Meal Plan For Gastritis
Foods to Pair with Green Beans
When planning your meals, consider pairing green beans with other acid reflux-friendly foods for a well-rounded diet. Some options include:
- Whole Grains: Brown rice, quinoa, and oatmeal.
- Lean Proteins: Skinless chicken, turkey, fish, and tofu.
- Low-Acid Fruits: Bananas, melons, and apples.
- Other Vegetables: Broccoli, zucchini, and asparagus.
Foods to Avoid with Acid Reflux
While green beans are safe, some foods can exacerbate acid reflux symptoms. Avoid combining green beans with:
- Fried Foods: High-fat, fried items can worsen reflux.
- Spicy Foods: Ingredients like chili peppers and hot sauce are common triggers.
- Acidic Foods: Tomatoes, citrus fruits, and vinegar should be consumed cautiously.
- Carbonated Beverages: Soda and sparkling water can increase pressure in the stomach, leading to reflux.
Author Tip: 7 Kinds of Foods to Avoid with GERD
Precautions and Considerations
Although green beans are generally safe for acid reflux sufferers, individual reactions may vary. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Portion Control: Overeating, even healthy foods, can put pressure on the stomach and cause reflux. Stick to moderate portions.
- Cooking Methods: Avoid frying or cooking with heavy oils and spices.
- Personal Triggers: Pay attention to how your body reacts to green beans and other foods. Keep a food diary to identify triggers.
FAQs
Are green beans high in acid?
No, green beans are not high in acid. They are considered a low-acid vegetable and are generally safe for people with acid reflux or those trying to avoid acid-forming foods.
Are green beans good for acid reflux?
Yes, green beans are good for acid reflux. They are alkaline-forming and low in acid, which helps soothe the digestive system and can reduce acid reflux symptoms. They are gentle on the stomach and easy to digest.
Is chana acidic or alkaline?
Chana (chickpeas) is considered alkaline-forming after digestion, even though it is mildly acidic in its raw form. Its fiber content and nutrient profile make it a beneficial food for maintaining a balanced pH in the body.
Which green vegetables are acidic?
Some green vegetables like spinach, kale, and certain types of lettuce can be mildly acidic, though they are generally considered less acidic than fruits or processed foods. However, their overall effect on the body is usually alkaline-forming once digested.
Conclusion
So, are green beans acidic? While they are mildly acidic, their pH level makes them a reflux-friendly food for most people. Rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, green beans can be a valuable addition to your diet, especially if you suffer from acid reflux.
Incorporate them into your meals using reflux-safe cooking methods and pair them with other low-acid foods for optimal digestive health.
By making mindful dietary choices and including green beans in your meal plan, you can take a significant step toward managing acid reflux and improving your overall well-being. Remember to consult a healthcare professional or dietitian if you have severe or persistent symptoms.
Related Posts
Subscribe for New Racipies
Get mental health tips, updates, and resources delivered to your inbox.