While preparing a traditional Passover meal in 2003, I scoured my Jewish cookbooks and the internet for a new dessert. I was particularly looking for one that did not call for matzo meal, which tends to make many dishes taste like cardboard (which, of course, may be the point). I came across many recipes for charoses that came from the contiguous countries along the Mediterranean Sea. In the southern United States, where I grew up, charoses is made with apples and pecans and is quite good. In contrast, these recipes called for a variety of dried fruits. Fascinated and drawn by some of my very favorite fruits, I picked those that I particularly favor, mixed them with other piquant ingredients, rolled them in cinnamon and they were delicious! Yet as flavorful as they were, I thought, the one thing that could make them even better would be to surround them with chocolate. One Sunday dinner, I presented the confection to my family with the challenge that we come up with a catchy, unforgettable name. As we hummed over the delicate flavors released with each mouthwatering bite, my always very elegant and, at the time, eighty-four year old mother bit into hers and exclaimed, "Oh, Laurie, these are divine! You should call them 'Heavenly Balls^®!'" And so they were named! I hope that you will enjoy these gourmet treats, full of flavor and filled with healthy anti-oxidants. Heavenly Balls^® are perfect as a dessert, paired with your favorite wine or coffee, given to others as a gift—or as a special treat…to yourself.