Ragtag Candies

Ragtag Candies are the perfect way to use up those odds and ends from your pantry to create a delicious and colorful homemade treat. Whether it’s bits of leftover dried fruit, assorted nuts, or those chocolate chips lingering at the bottom of the bag, these candies are all about embracing the chaotic mix of ingredients you have on hand. They are quick, easy, and perfect for getting creative with your flavors. Let’s make these fun and sweet treats!

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cook’s Notes and Tips
• Variations
• Keto and Low-Carb Versions
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 2 cups chocolate (dark, milk, or white)
• 1 cup assorted mix-ins (dried fruit, chopped nuts, pretzels, mini marshmallows, or crushed cookies)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

1. Prepare a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate using a double boiler on the stovetop.
3. Add the Mix-Ins: Stir in your assorted mix-ins, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the melted chocolate. Add the vanilla extract if desired.
4. Form the Candies: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading them into small clusters. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over each candy for a delightful contrast of flavors.
5. Chill: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and let the candies set for about 30 minutes, or until firm.
6. Serve: Once set, remove the candies from the baking sheet and store them in an airtight container. Enjoy your Ragtag Candies as a quick treat or share them with friends!

Cook’s Notes and Tips

• Chocolate Choice: You can use dark, milk, or white chocolate for this recipe. Feel free to mix different types of chocolate for a unique flavor combination.
• Melting Chocolate: Be sure not to overheat the chocolate as it can seize up. Stir frequently while melting to ensure a smooth consistency.
• Mix-In Sizes: Chop any larger mix-ins, such as nuts or dried fruit, into smaller pieces to ensure an even distribution in the candies.

Variations

• Peanut Butter Swirl: Drizzle melted peanut butter over the top of the candies before they set for a nutty twist.
• Holiday Ragtag Candies: Add festive sprinkles or colored candy pieces to make these candies perfect for holiday celebrations.
• Tropical Ragtag Candies: Use dried pineapple, shredded coconut, and macadamia nuts for a tropical-inspired treat.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

To make a keto-friendly and low-carb version of Ragtag Candies:

• Chocolate Substitute: Use sugar-free dark chocolate or keto-friendly chocolate chips.
• Mix-Ins: Stick with low-carb mix-ins like chopped nuts, unsweetened shredded coconut, or seeds. Avoid dried fruits as they tend to be high in sugar.
• Sweetener: If desired, add a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit to enhance the sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Long Will Ragtag Candies Last?

These candies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Can I Use Other Types of Chocolate?

Absolutely! You can use any type of chocolate you prefer, including semi-sweet, milk, white, or even ruby chocolate. Just keep in mind that the sweetness level will vary depending on the chocolate used.

What Are Some Good Mix-Ins?

Great mix-ins include dried cranberries, chopped almonds, pretzel pieces, mini marshmallows, toasted coconut, or crushed cookies. Get creative and use whatever you have in your pantry!

Can I Make These Candies Vegan?

Yes! Use dairy-free or vegan chocolate and make sure your mix-ins are free of animal products. There are many vegan-friendly chocolate options available, and mix-ins like dried fruits, nuts, and seeds are naturally vegan.

How Do I Prevent the Chocolate from Seizing?

Avoid getting any water in the chocolate as it melts, as this can cause it to seize. If this happens, you can try adding a small amount of vegetable oil to help smooth it out.

Ragtag Candies are a wonderfully flexible treat that allows you to get creative in the kitchen while using up pantry leftovers. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious, sweet, and crunchy treat that’s perfect for snacking or sharing. Whether you stick to the classic mix-ins or put your own twist on them, these candies are sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, melt some chocolate, and get ready to enjoy these fun and tasty treats.

Happy Treat-Making!