If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is impressive to serve, Chocolate Salami is your answer. This unique no-bake dessert resembles a classic salami in appearance, but don’t be fooled—every slice reveals a rich chocolatey delight with a nutty crunch. Perfect for parties, holidays, or just a treat for yourself, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to create this dessert from scratch, with tips and tricks to ensure it turns out perfectly every time.
Ingredients
Before getting started with the process, let’s review the items you’ll require.
For the Salami:
- 1 1/4 cups (380g) sweetened condensed milk
- 100g dark chocolate (the higher the cocoa content, the richer the flavor)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons (20g) butter
- 250g roasted peanuts (unsalted for best results)
For the Glaze:
- 100g milk chocolate
- 1 1/2 tablespoons (20ml) vegetable oil
- 50g finely chopped peanuts
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chocolate Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, dark chocolate, and butter. Heat over low heat, stirring continuously. The mixture should gradually melt and thicken, forming a glossy, smooth consistency. This step requires patience; keep the heat low to prevent burning the chocolate.
Once fully melted, remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow it to cool down a bit before proceeding to the following step.
2. Add the Peanuts
Gently fold the roasted peanuts into the chocolate mixture. Stir until the peanuts are evenly distributed. The nuts provide a satisfying crunch that complements the smooth and velvety chocolate base, offering an ideal blend of textures.
3. Shape the Salami
Spread a piece of parchment paper on a smooth, flat surface. Pour the chocolate-peanut mixture onto the center of the paper. Using a spatula, shape the mixture into a log, resembling a salami.
Wrap the parchment paper tightly around the log, twisting the ends like a candy wrapper to secure the shape. Place the log in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 5 hours. For the best results, leave it overnight.
4. Prepare the Glaze
When the salami is firm, it’s time to prepare the glaze. Melt the milk chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
Once the chocolate is melted, mix in the vegetable oil to create a smooth, pourable glaze. Stir in the finely chopped peanuts for an extra layer of texture.
5. Coat the Salami
Remove the chilled salami from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Place it on a wire rack over a baking sheet to catch any excess glaze. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the salami, ensuring it is completely coated on all sides.
Let the salami rest at room temperature until the glaze hardens. For a quicker set, you can place it back in the refrigerator.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once the chocolate glaze has firmed up, slice the salami into 1-inch thick rounds. Each slice will reveal the nutty, chocolatey interior that makes this dessert so visually appealing. Arrange the slices on a serving plate, and enjoy!
Tips for Success
Chocolate Quality
Use high-quality dark chocolate for the base and milk chocolate for the glaze. The better the chocolate, the richer the flavor of the dessert.
Nut Options
Although peanuts are a timeless option, feel free to try other varieties like almonds, hazelnuts, or even pistachios for a unique twist. Toast the nuts beforehand for maximum flavor.
Shaping the Salami
To achieve a uniform shape, use a sushi mat or cling film in addition to parchment paper. This will help create a smooth, cylindrical form.
Storing the Dessert
Store the chocolate salami in a sealed container and keep it refrigerated. It can remain fresh for about a week when stored properly. To extend its shelf life, tightly wrap it in plastic and freeze it for as long as three months.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Baking Required: This dessert is perfect for those hot days when you want to avoid turning on the oven.
- Customizable: Swap out the nuts or add dried fruits, shredded coconut, or crushed biscuits for a personalized twist.
- Visually Stunning: The salami shape and nutty interior make it a showstopper on any dessert table.
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Slice)
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 12g
Serving Suggestions
Chocolate Peanut Salami pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a more luxurious treat, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of whipped cream.
This dessert is also great for gifting. Wrap the entire salami in parchment paper and tie it with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dessert vegan?
Yes! Use dairy-free condensed milk and vegan chocolate. Replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, and ensure your nuts are roasted without any added animal-based ingredients.
2. Can I use white chocolate?
You can, but keep in mind that white chocolate is sweeter than dark or milk chocolate. Balance the sweetness by using less condensed milk or adding a pinch of salt.
3. How long does it take to make?
The active preparation time is about 30 minutes, but the salami requires at least 5 hours to chill and set, so plan accordingly.
Conclusion
Chocolate Peanut Salami is the perfect dessert for any occasion. It’s easy to make, doesn’t require baking, and combines rich chocolate with crunchy peanuts for an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or indulge in a sweet treat, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home.
Try it today and discover why this no-bake dessert is a hit around the world!