Acorn Cookie Truffles

Steps

• 1

  Heat oven to 375°F. Make cookies as directed on pouch. Cool completely, at least 20 minutes.
• 2

  In food processor, process half of the cookies to fine crumbs. Remove and set aside; process remaining cookies to fine crumbs. Mix all cookie crumbs in food processor. Add cream cheese and hazelnut spread. Process 1 to 2 minutes or until well combined and mixture forms a ball.
• 3

  Shape cookie mixture into 46 (1 1/4-inch) balls. Flatten each ball into palm of hand to about a 2-inch circle. Place 1 pretzel in centre. Form cookie mixture around pretzel into an oblong acorn shape, leaving about 1 inch of pretzel showing for stem. Place on waxed paper-lined baking sheet. Repeat with remaining balls and pretzels. Refrigerate at least 1 hour.
• 4

  In medium microwavable bowl, microwave chocolate chips and shortening uncovered on High 60 seconds. Stir; continue to microwave in 30-second increments until mixture can be stirred smooth. In small bowl, place chopped almonds.
• 5

  Remove one-third of cookie acorns at a time from refrigerator. Place on second waxed paper-lined baking sheet. Carefully holding chilled cookie acorn by pretzel stem, hold over bowl of melted chocolate. Using spoon, spoon melted chocolate over cookie acorn to cover. Gently shake off excess chocolate.
• 6

  Continue to hold cookie acorn; hold over almond bowl. Using another clean spoon, sprinkle almonds over top third of acorn. Place on lined baking sheet. Repeat with remaining cookie acorns. If chocolate has cooled too much, reheat. Refrigerate truffles about 30 minutes or until coating is set. Store covered in refrigerator.