Šumadinke / Sumadinke Truffles

Šumadija, the land of fruitful fields and pastures, mountains and valleys, and delicious and hearty food and drink. One of those specialties is Rakija, a fruit brandy, and national drink of Serbia. While it’s not only made in this region (it’s made all over the Balkans), the symbolism and deep-rooted techniques are definitely what make Rakija from this region very sought after. Rakija is also the star of this dessert, as well as other ingredients found in the region. Šumadinke are truly all of Sumadija has to offer in one truffle!

Šumadija is located in Central Serbia and is unofficially named the “heart of Serbia”. Known for it’s agriculture and lush forestry, this is also where I’m from, so I’m definitely biased when I say it’s the best part of the country for outdoor enthusiasts.

Šumadinke truffles combine all that this region has to offer into one dessert and are appropriately named. While the recipe was given to me with just the basics, I decided to add a few more signature ingredients to really make it a well-rounded representation of the region. Rakija, nuts, and dried fruit are the basis for this no-bake dessert that can be made vegan if desired. With just a few ingredients, you can make a delicious truffle with a kick.

Looking for more dessert ideas? Check out the dessert section here. Also check out the vegan recipes page here for more traditional vegan recipes.

Šumadinke / Sumadinke Truffles

Recipe by The Balkan HostessCourse: DessertCuisine: Balkan, Serbian

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Šumadija in a truffle!

Ingredients

• 1 cup (200 g) prunes/dried pitted plums

• Zest of 1 large lemon (or orange)

• 2.5 cups (200 g) ground walnuts

• 2 cups (160 g) ground hazelnuts

• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) Rakija

• 1 tablespoon vanilla sugar (1 kesica)

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) peach juice (or apple)

• 1/2 cup (125 g) butter, melted

• 3/4 cup (120 g) dark chocolate, melted

• 1.5 cups (190 g) powdered sugar

• 2 cups (220 g) Plazma (Lane) biscuits, ground (or graham crackers)

• For rolling/topping

• Ground walnuts

• Cocoa powder

• Ground Plazma

Directions

• Combine all the ingredients (except those for rolling the truffles) into a mixing bowl and mix well to combine.
• Refrigerate the mixture for 1 hour.
• After refrigerating, roll the mixture into small truffles and roll in the topping of your choice.
• Serve and enjoy!

Notes

• If you don’t want to use or don’t have Rakija, substitute the amount for juice of your choice.

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