Prepare yourself for a journey into the world of indulgence with this delectable Chocolate “Salami” recipe. Don’t be fooled by the name – this dessert contains no meat but is instead a delightful combination of chocolate, cookies, and nuts. Perfect for special occasions, gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 2 (4.9 oz) packages Maria’s cookies
- 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ⅓ cup butter, cubed
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cookies:
- Crush the Maria’s cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a plastic bag and crushing them with a rolling pin. Set aside.
- Toast the Walnuts:
- In a dry skillet, toast the finely chopped walnuts over medium heat until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Set aside to cool.
- Melt the Chocolate:
- In a saucepan, combine the chocolate chips, heavy cream, and cubed butter over low heat. Stir constantly until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Remove the chocolate mixture from the heat and stir in the crushed cookies and toasted walnuts until well combined.
- Shape the “Salami”:
- Place a large piece of plastic wrap on a flat surface and transfer the chocolate mixture onto it.
- Shape the mixture into a log or salami shape, using the plastic wrap to help you roll it tightly.
- Twist the ends of the plastic wrap to seal the log securely.
- Chill and Set:
- Refrigerate the chocolate salami for at least 2-3 hours or until firm.
- Finish and Serve:
- Once chilled, unwrap the chocolate salami and roll it in powdered sugar to coat evenly.
- Slice the salami into rounds and serve.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Variety of Nuts: Feel free to substitute walnuts with almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios for different flavor profiles.
- Add Some Zest: For a hint of citrus flavor, add some finely grated orange or lemon zest to the chocolate mixture.
- Customize with Liquor: For an adult twist, add a splash of your favorite liquor such as rum, brandy, or amaretto to the chocolate mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use other types of cookies? A: Yes, you can use other types of cookies such as digestive biscuits, graham crackers, or even chocolate wafers.
Q: Can I make this dessert ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the chocolate salami ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. It actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours.
Q: Can I freeze chocolate salami? A: Yes, you can freeze chocolate salami. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegan? A: Yes, you can make a vegan version of chocolate salami by using dairy-free chocolate chips, coconut cream, and vegan butter.
Q: Can I add dried fruits to the chocolate salami? A: Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped dried fruits such as cherries, apricots, or cranberries for added texture and flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make the following substitutions:
- Cookies: Use almond flour or coconut flour-based cookies for a low-carb option.
- Sweetener: Replace powdered sugar with a powdered erythritol-based sweetener for dusting.
In conclusion, Chocolate “Salami” is a delightful dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With its rich chocolate flavor, crunchy nuts, and hint of sweetness, it’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re serving it up at a party or indulging in a special treat at home, this recipe is bound to impress. So go ahead, give it a try, and let the decadence begin!
