This Homemade Dessert is a decadent treat that combines rich chocolate, crunchy biscuits, and a medley of nuts, creating a delightful texture and flavor in every bite. The orange zest adds a refreshing citrus note that perfectly complements the smooth chocolate layers. Whether you’re preparing this for a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this dessert is sure to impress. It’s easy to make and doesn’t require baking, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned chefs. Here’s how you can create this luxurious dessert at home.
Ingredients
Before you begin, gather the following ingredients to ensure a smooth preparation process. This dessert has multiple layers, each adding its unique flavor and texture to the final dish.
For the Chocolate Base:
- Milk: 400 ml (about 1 2/3 cups)
Purpose: Forms the base of the chocolate mixture, giving it a creamy consistency. - Sugar: 120 grams (about 1/2 cup)
Purpose: Sweetens the chocolate base, balancing the richness of the cocoa. - Orange Zest: Zest of 1 orange
Purpose: Adds a fresh, citrusy aroma and flavor that complements the chocolate. - Cocoa Powder: 60 grams (about 1/2 cup)
Purpose: Provides the rich, chocolatey flavor that is the star of the dessert. - Butter: 150 grams (about 2/3 cup)
Purpose: Adds richness and smoothness to the chocolate mixture, making it more indulgent.
For the Biscuit and Nut Mixture:
- Biscuits: 400 grams (about 14 oz), crushed into small pieces
Purpose: Forms the crunchy base of the dessert, adding texture and structure. - Walnuts: 100 grams (about 1 cup), chopped
Purpose: Adds a nutty flavor and crunch that pairs perfectly with the chocolate.
For the Chocolate Toppings:
- Milk Chocolate: 80 grams (about 3 oz)
Purpose: Used for the middle layer, adding a smooth, sweet chocolate topping. - Vegetable Oil: 25 ml (about 1.5 tbsp) for the milk chocolate, 10 ml (about 2 tsp) for the white chocolate
Purpose: Helps the chocolate melt smoothly and creates a glossy finish when set. - Roasted Peanuts: 60 grams (about 1/2 cup)
Purpose: Sprinkled over the milk chocolate layer, adding extra crunch and flavor. - White Chocolate: 50 grams (about 2 oz)
Purpose: Provides a contrasting sweet, creamy topping that balances the flavors.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized saucepan, pour in the 400 ml of milk and add 120 grams of sugar. Grate the zest of 1 orange directly into the pan, and then add 60 grams of cocoa powder.
- Tip: Use fresh orange zest for the best flavor; it adds a subtle yet delightful citrus note that complements the chocolate beautifully.
- Cook the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture continuously until it comes to a boil. This ensures the sugar dissolves completely and the cocoa powder blends smoothly into the milk.
- Tip: Keep an eye on the mixture as it heats to prevent it from scorching or sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Step 2: Add Butter
- Incorporate the Butter: Once the mixture reaches a boil, remove it from the heat and immediately add 150 grams of butter. Stir until the butter melts completely and is fully incorporated into the chocolate mixture.
- Tip: Let the mixture cool slightly before adding the biscuits and nuts; this will help it thicken slightly and make it easier to mix.
Step 3: Prepare the Biscuit and Nut Mixture
- Crush the Biscuits: Place 400 grams of biscuits into a large plastic bag or between sheets of parchment paper. Use a rolling pin to crush the biscuits into small, even pieces.
- Tip: You want some texture in the biscuits, so avoid crushing them into a fine powder. Larger pieces will add a satisfying crunch to the dessert.
- Chop the Walnuts: Roughly chop 100 grams of walnuts. The pieces should be small enough to mix well but large enough to add a noticeable crunch.
- Tip: Toast the walnuts beforehand to enhance their flavor and add an extra layer of depth to the dessert.
Step 4: Combine and Chill
- Mix Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed biscuits and chopped walnuts. Pour the slightly cooled chocolate mixture over the biscuit and nut mixture, stirring until everything is evenly coated.
- Tip: Ensure all the biscuit pieces are well-coated with the chocolate mixture for a consistent flavor in every bite.
- Transfer to Dish: Press the mixture into a dish, spreading it out evenly to create a uniform layer. Refrigerate for 1 hour to allow it to set.
- Tip: Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press the mixture down firmly, ensuring it holds together well.
Step 5: Prepare the Toppings
- Melt the Milk Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 80 grams of milk chocolate with 25 ml of vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Tip: The vegetable oil helps the chocolate to melt smoothly and gives it a glossy finish once set.
- Add Peanuts: Pour the melted milk chocolate over the chilled dessert base. Sprinkle 60 grams of roasted peanuts evenly over the milk chocolate layer.
- Tip: Lightly press the peanuts into the chocolate to help them stick as the chocolate sets.
- Chill Again: Place the dessert back in the refrigerator and chill for 15 minutes to allow the chocolate layer to set.
Step 6: Add the Final Layer
- Melt the White Chocolate: In a separate bowl, melt 50 grams of white chocolate with 10 ml of vegetable oil. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
- Tip: White chocolate can burn easily, so melt it in short intervals and stir frequently to avoid overheating.
- Top the Dessert: Pour the melted white chocolate over the dessert, spreading it evenly with a spatula. This final layer adds a sweet, creamy contrast to the rich chocolate and nuts.
- Final Chill: Place the dessert back in the refrigerator for another 15 minutes, allowing the white chocolate layer to fully set.
Step 7: Serve
- Slice and Enjoy: Once the dessert is fully chilled and set, it’s ready to serve. Cut it into squares or slices, and enjoy the rich, layered flavors and textures.
- Tip: For clean slices, use a sharp knife warmed under hot water, wiping the blade between each cut.
Tips and Variations
- For Extra Flavor: Add a splash of vanilla extract or a dash of cinnamon to the chocolate mixture for extra warmth and depth of flavor.
- Use Different Nuts: Feel free to swap the walnuts with hazelnuts, almonds, or even pecans for a different texture and flavor.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free milk, vegan butter, and dark chocolate to make this dessert vegan-friendly.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute the regular biscuits with gluten-free biscuits to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Sugars: 25g
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Calcium: 70mg
- Iron: 2.5mg
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of chocolate for this dessert?
Yes, you can use dark chocolate or milk chocolate for the layers. Dark chocolate will add a more intense, less sweet flavor, while milk chocolate gives a smoother, sweeter finish. You can also use vegan chocolate to make it dairy-free.
2. Can I substitute the biscuits with something else?
If you prefer, you can use graham crackers, digestive biscuits, or even gluten-free biscuits. The key is to maintain a crunchy texture that will hold the dessert together.
3. How long will this dessert last in the fridge?
This dessert will last for up to 5 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. Make sure the layers are fully set before storing to maintain their texture.
4. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, this dessert is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it the day before you plan to serve it, and store it in the fridge. The flavors have time to meld, and it sets beautifully.
5. Can I use a different nut instead of walnuts?
Absolutely! You can use almonds, hazelnuts, pecans, or any other nut of your choice. Toasting the nuts beforehand will enhance their flavor.
6. Can I freeze this dessert?
Yes, you can freeze this dessert. Cut it into slices and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. When ready to serve, let it thaw in the fridge for a few hours.
Conclusion
This Homemade Dessert offers the perfect balance of rich chocolate, crunchy biscuits, and roasted nuts, all topped off with a smooth white chocolate layer. The combination of textures and flavors is irresistible, and the addition of orange zest brings a refreshing citrus twist that elevates the entire dessert. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this dessert is sure to impress with its indulgent taste and simple preparation. Enjoy it chilled and cut into squares for a treat that everyone will love!