QUICK CHOCOLATE TRUFFLES

"This is more a formula than a recipe, as it can be varied in countless ways. Use all chocolate chips or replace some with mint, peanut butter or butterscotch chips. Roll the balls in whatever you choose -- finely chopped nuts, colored sprinkles or jimmies, unsweetened cocoa, pulverized toffee or crushed peppermints are just some possibilities."

1 cup (6 ounces) semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 (10-ounce) package mint chocolate chips or flavor of choice
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
Unsweetened cocoa powder, finely chopped nuts, colored sprinkles, crushed peppermints or other powdered or finely chopped coating

In a heavy saucepan over medium heat or in a microwave, melt both chips with sweetened condensed milk, stirring occasionally. Stir until smooth. Chill 2 hours or until firm.

Shape into 1-inch balls and roll in coating of choice. Chill 1 hour or until firm. Store covered at room temperature.

Makes about 6 dozen
Source: Linda Cicero, The Miami Herald, December 21, 2006